Jerry Cavalo, representing the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, provided an overview of the boardwalk project, emphasizing its inclusion in both the bicycle pedestrian master plan and the open space recreation plan. He highlighted the town’s recent acquisition of property at the corner of Lakeshore Drive and Aspen Street, which would facilitate this connection. However, the boardwalk’s proximity to the shoreline of a Great Pond means it must adhere to Chapter 91 regulations, which require thorough environmental assessments and public consultations before proceeding.

During the commission’s discussion, concerns were raised about the potential impact on local wildlife, including the risk of disrupting nesting turtles and the leopard frog, a species of concern. The area is known for its biodiversity, and members of the commission stressed the importance of balancing recreational development with wildlife preservation. Cavalo assured the commission that efforts would be made to minimize environmental impacts, including avoiding tree removal and considering the needs of species inhabiting the wetlands.

A site visit was proposed to gain a better understanding of the environmental conditions and to assess the feasibility of the project. The commission agreed that a detailed evaluation of the ecological context is necessary before any decisions can be made, with suggestions for a comprehensive study to ensure the protection of local species.

The meeting also addressed concerns from local residents, including property owner Susan Silverberg, who pointed out the need for state permitting due to the substantial alteration of the shoreline. Another resident, John Falam, argued for preserving the natural beauty of the area, expressing skepticism about the necessity of the boardwalk and its potential to increase human activity, which could disturb wildlife.

In another significant agenda item, the commission discussed the environmental management of a salt shed near 151-153 Taylor Street, which has been linked to elevated sodium chloride levels in nearby groundwater wells. The transition from bulk sodium chloride to salt brine application has resulted in a reported 44% reduction in salt usage, yet Well GZ1 continues to show concerning contamination spikes.

The commission considered increasing the frequency of monitoring from quarterly to monthly to better track changes in water quality, though some members questioned the efficacy of such frequent monitoring in the area’s flat groundwater flow conditions. The discussion included the historical context of the site, noting the increase in contamination levels since Amazon’s occupancy and the subsequent changes in salt application methods.

The commission acknowledged the need for ongoing dialogue with stakeholders, including Amazon, and explored options for mitigating the salt shed’s environmental impact. The potential relocation of the shed was suggested as a long-term solution, and the commission planned to revisit the issue in an upcoming meeting.

Additionally, the commission addressed a range of other topics, including the extension of a permit for single-family house construction, the restoration plan for unpermitted grading on Powers Road, and the delineation of wetland resource areas on Newtown Road. Each of these items involved careful consideration of environmental regulations and the importance of maintaining ecological integrity alongside development efforts.