The most engaging topic of the meeting centered around the proposed residential development at Zero Reservoir Road, where the board deliberated on subdividing approximately 9.5 acres into four single-family lots. Justin McCarti of SDP Realty Trust represented the applicant. The project, which includes a common driveway intersecting Goodrich Street and Reservoir Road, sparked safety concerns. One board member expressed strong reservations about the driveway’s location, emphasizing potential long-term safety issues and the need for improvements to the intersection to prevent accidents, especially in winter conditions.

Despite McCarti’s assurances that the design complies with the Massachusetts Storm Handbook and has been discussed with the Department of Public Works (DPW) director, the board member insisted on exploring alternative driveway designs. This member advocated for additional input from the police and fire departments to address safety concerns adequately. The lack of a filed common driveway special permit highlighted the need for further review, with the board emphasizing the importance of ensuring all safety concerns are addressed before proceeding with the stormwater permit application.

A consensus emerged to initiate the peer review process, contingent upon receiving a deposit to cover costs. The board also noted that while the stormwater permit could proceed with a three-member vote, the common driveway special permit required four votes, complicating the approval process.

Turning to the broader strategic initiatives, the board announced that Steve Wallace from Sterling will assume the role of Director of Planning and Economic Development starting in early February. This appointment was met with enthusiasm as the town anticipates Wallace’s contributions to ongoing and upcoming projects.

Additionally, the board discussed the master plan steering committee’s progress, which had concluded its work following a final meeting. The project now moves to the contractors responsible for compiling the information and drafting the final master plan document, which is expected to guide the town’s development for the next decade. The board expressed gratitude to the individuals involved in this extensive three-year process.

The meeting also covered other development-related topics, including the review of an Approval Not Required (ANR) application for a property on West Townsend Road. The application proposed subdividing an existing property into five lots while retaining the current house. Concerns were raised about compliance with Board of Health regulations, particularly regarding the proposed septic systems. The absence of a compliance letter for one lot prompted inquiries about the existing home’s condition and its failed septic system, which is due for replacement.

Discussions emphasized the need for careful consideration of stormwater management and the potential establishment of a homeowners association to manage common areas. The board’s cautious approach aimed to prevent future issues for the applicant while ensuring compliance with local regulations. Ultimately, the board moved to endorse the ANR application.

As the meeting progressed, the board made procedural decisions regarding a stormwater permit for another project on Towns and Harbor Road. The discussion included setting a performance guarantee amount, with a 25% contingency suggested, resulting in a total of approximately $4,000. Logistical challenges related to documentation and signing processes were addressed, emphasizing the importance of coordination and communication.

Lastly, the board’s attention turned to upcoming schedules and procedural matters. The board planned to meet on January 5, with a tentative meeting on January 26. Discussions highlighted potential quorum issues due to scheduling conflicts, particularly with the municipal building design committee. The board also addressed the complexities associated with an ANR application involving 35 plots, stressing the need for additional legal consultation and review of zoning bylaws.