The primary focus of the meeting was the proposal’s potential impact on the neighborhood’s character and infrastructure. Community members expressed strong concerns about the increased density, with a resident arguing that the proposed 20 units would not be compatible with the existing low-density neighborhood. Fire safety was another major issue, given the lack of municipal water supply to support adequate fire suppression systems. Residents pointed out the challenges of drilling wells in the area and questioned whether the developer could meet the necessary safety requirements. The developer assured compliance with fire suppression regulations.

Traffic safety was a recurring theme throughout the discussions. The development’s impact on school bus routes and the adequacy of bus stops was highlighted, with concerns raised about the safety of children waiting for buses on narrow roads. Melanie Lahi, a resident, noted that the current bus stop situation already required families to park on the side of the road, which could be exacerbated by the new development. Rachel Brackett, a school bus driver, explained that adjustments to bus routes might be necessitated by the new project, potentially utilizing a turnaround at the Townsen-Lunenburg line.

The board discussed various conditions for the approval of the project, including driveway width and parking requirements. It was suggested that each unit should accommodate three parking spots to prevent overflow parking and ensure emergency vehicles have unimpeded access. The board members deliberated on whether further conditions were necessary before ultimately voting to approve the special permit, with stipulations to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Another discussion item was an application for a special permit by Matthew, seeking permission to construct a garage with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above it. The board scrutinized the application against four special permit criteria. The building commissioner’s determination letter noted that while ADUs are allowed, the proposed building height exceeded local bylaws by 16.5 feet at the rear and 11.5 feet along the sideline. Glenny addressed concerns over the septic system, which would require an upgrade to accommodate the additional bedrooms in the ADU. He confirmed that plans for both four-bedroom and five-bedroom systems were in place.

The board reviewed letters from abutters, who expressed no objections, and raised questions about the necessity of a separate exterior stairwell for the ADU, which Glenny explained as being due to the unit’s full independence from the garage. Parking arrangements were also discussed, with Glenny assuring that ample parking was available on the property.