A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to examining the wetland flagging at the 417 Howard Street site. Commissioners raised concerns about the accuracy of the wetland delineation, noting the absence of the typical blue flags used to mark wetland boundaries. The flags present were predominantly pink. This discrepancy prompted calls for a peer review to verify the delineation, as the initial flagging was conducted during winter when visibility might be compromised. The commission was cautious about proceeding with approvals without a clear understanding of the wetland boundaries, as this could set a precedent affecting future projects and buffer zone regulations.

The commission expressed a desire to arrange a site visit with the environmental consultancy Three Oaks to reassess the delineation. The landowner voiced frustration over delays. Despite the landowner’s calls for an expedited review, the commission emphasized the necessity of accurate wetland delineation to avoid potential legal and environmental issues.

In another development, the commission discussed the Hickory Hills Land Owners, Inc.’s annual treatment plan for fanwort in Hickory Hills Lake. Dominic Moringalo from Solitude Lake Management detailed the proposed treatment using flumagard SC, an herbicide effective against fanwort, scheduled for June 11. The plan included using an airboat for precise application over 32 acres. An additional treatment was planned for the newly discovered invasive species, European brittle naiad, in Little Hickory Lake later in the summer. The commission approved the treatment plan following a discussion on environmental impacts, particularly concerning water testing and oxygen levels.

The commission also addressed the status of another project on Howard Street, where the absence of the applicant and necessary documentation led to discussions about re-notification and reintroduction of the application. Concerns were raised over the lack of updated plans and a peer review approval letter, emphasizing the importance of adhering to procedural requirements to maintain jurisdictional integrity.

Further discussions involved a project on Round Road, which included landscape replacement walls, docks, and beach sand replenishment. The commission acknowledged a request for a delay until the June meeting to accommodate updates on engineering drawings. Similarly, a public hearing for a two-family dwelling on Electric raised issues regarding the absence of a delineation report, prompting debates about the implications of proceeding without clear wetland delineation.

Administrative matters were also on the agenda, with discussions on a restaurant’s proposed deck and patio. The commission debated whether the project should be classified under a Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA) instead of an administrative determination, due to the conversion of a permeable area into a patio. The commission decided to request an RDA to ensure compliance with local regulations.