Greg Roy, representing the applicant, presented the project details, noting the historical use of the site and its positioning partly within the 100-year floodplain as mapped by recent FEMA updates. The project’s uniqueness stems from its lack of traditional resource areas like vegetated wetlands, instead addressing bordering land subject to flooding. Roy expressed skepticism about the accuracy of the new flood elevation. Despite these concerns, the project plans were aligned with the new floodplain metrics.

The proposal includes a significant reduction in impervious surfaces from approximately 0.995 acres to about 0.858 acres, aiding stormwater management by reducing runoff. This change is critical for the site’s conversion into a four-story self-storage facility, emphasizing internal access units and a small parking area. Roy highlighted the project’s three permit applications: site plan review, stormwater management permit, and floodplain management permit, all required due to the commercial nature and land alterations. Coordination with the planning board is essential, as feedback from both entities may necessitate revisions.

The hearing also addressed compensatory flood storage, proposing to fill 9,370 cubic feet while providing an additional 11,378 cubic feet of storage at or below the fill elevation. This ensures proper floodwater management, with compensatory volume accessible before floodwaters reach critical levels. A request was made to waive a wildlife habitat evaluation based on the site’s predominantly paved condition and the reduction in impervious area.

Further discussions included the project’s interaction with stormwater management systems, TSS calculations, and protective measures during construction. Questions arose about the fate of trees behind the property and proximity to the nearest 100-foot boundary to the wetland, prompting commitments to provide additional details.

Attention then shifted to another proposal involving the drilling of a well at a residence currently using lake water, requiring Conservation Commission approval due to its location within a buffer zone. The project aimed to ensure a reliable and clean water supply, with the Board of Health already granting a drilling permit. Conditions included sediment controls, containment of retention pits, and specific buffer zone requirements to protect Lake Shirley.

The commission also deliberated on a request for determination of applicability for a shed construction near a stream, raising concerns about adherence to buffer regulations. The applicant’s plan to place the shed on concrete blocks without tree removal was discussed, but further verification of the 100-foot line was deemed necessary before approval.

Additional agenda items included Malcolm Parker’s request for a chain link fence installation, which prompted discussions on wildlife passage and environmental impact. The commission granted approval under conditions to minimize ecological disturbance.

Administrative matters addressed included a certificate of compliance for a project on Reservoir Road and updates on violations at various properties, highlighting ongoing compliance efforts. A notable new business item involved the abandonment of monitoring wells, with the commission seeking further information due to potential environmental concerns.