The most pressing topic of the meeting was the proposed floating dock expansion and pier repair at Reed Park by PA Infrastructure and Environmental LLC. The board decided to approve the project, which includes dock expansion, improved lighting, and specific conditions to mitigate environmental impact. The approval came after discussions on several issues, including lighting, tree preservation, and the prohibition of a fuel dock.

Board members addressed the need for low-level dock-mounted lighting to minimize glare and enhance safety. The lighting system will be constructed in zones to allow selective shutdowns in areas not in use, particularly during the off-season. The Harbor Advisory Committee had previously mentioned that lighting would be unnecessary once the boating season ends, prompting a proposal to turn off lights on floating docks removed for the season.

Another concern was the trenching through Reed Park, which could impact tree roots. The board discussed the necessity of having the tree warden oversee the operation to minimize damage, with the option to call in an independent arborist if needed. Financial implications of hiring an arborist were debated, but a compromise was reached to allow the tree warden to decide if additional support was necessary.

The board also discussed the contentious issue of installing a fuel dock. The unanimous decision was to prohibit the installation of a fuel dock, citing concerns about enforcement and potential fueling from portable gas containers by boat owners. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining this prohibition to ensure environmental safety.

In addition to the Reed Park project, another topic was the proposed conservation land acquisition by Greenbelt. A representative from Greenbelt detailed the efforts to acquire 330 acres of land spanning Manchester and Gloucester, with 38 acres remaining unprotected. The board’s role was to provide recommendations on the conservation restriction, while the final decision on funding would rest with the Community Preservation Committee (CPC).

The land is significant for its climate resilience and recreational opportunities, forming part of one of the largest intact forests in the county. The Greenbelt representative highlighted its ecological value, including the protection of headwaters for critical streams and the maintenance of extensive trail systems. The proposal involves conveying a conservation restriction to Gloucester contingent upon the town’s financial participation. The board discussed the potential for public access enhancements and the necessity of maintaining the land for passive recreation, as stipulated by the state landscape partnership funding.

The meeting also touched on the implications of the new Affordable Homes Act and the regulation of ADUs. A board member provided an update, noting that local bylaws conflicting with the state law would become unenforceable starting in February. This raised concerns about the proliferation of short-term rentals if no local restrictions were in place. The board debated the practicality of revising local bylaws before the next town meeting, acknowledging the need for a robust enforcement framework to manage short-term rentals effectively.

Further discussions centered on the commercial use of the docks, particularly the potential for whale watching and fishing boats to use the facilities. The board clarified that such commercial activities would be restricted, with specific conditions allowing boats funded by federal grants to operate under controlled circumstances. The prohibition of commercial activities on the floats was emphasized to prevent issues related to parking and congestion.

In addition to these primary topics, the board addressed modifications to zoning bylaws concerning marijuana businesses. The discussion involved the regulation of marijuana business locations relative to residential areas, with a proposal to ensure such businesses are not situated within 300 feet of residential districts. The board decided to table this item for further clarification and to ensure compliance with state laws.

The meeting concluded with updates on various task forces and committees, including the Harbor Management Advisory Group’s survey on harbor issues and the CPC’s upcoming funding discussions. The board also considered the feasibility of creating a master plan for the General District, which would encompass residential and commercial areas, design reviews, and streetscape improvements.