The subject of blasting activities near residential areas dominated the meeting. Residents Ken Bennett and John Abbott recounted past experiences with vibrations damaging homes during previous construction projects. They pressed for pre-blast surveys to assess potential damage and called for better communication regarding blasting schedules. A contractor overseeing the blasting operations assured that vibrations were kept below regulatory thresholds, with monitoring devices in place to verify compliance. However, residents remained skeptical, citing historical concerns and inadequate communication about the pre-blast surveys.

Concerns about blasting proximity to homes, discrepancies in permit addresses, and the volume of earth removal were also raised. The existing general bylaw sets a threshold of 250 cubic yards for earth removal, which had been adjusted in the past due to resident concerns. The board clarified that the bylaw pertains to total removal from the site, not just from blasting, and emphasized the importance of verifying the anticipated removal volumes with the blasting contractor.

Further discussions highlighted the need for improved communication protocols. The contractor proposed a text alert system to notify residents 45 minutes before each blast. Some residents, including Jeff Cony, expressed concerns about the intensity of future blasts and the need for clearer communication to mitigate distress.

The board also addressed construction oversight, particularly regarding site work and inspections. A participant raised concerns about the absence of a dedicated town inspector for on-site activities, emphasizing the need for frequent and thorough inspections during significant site work, such as drainage installation. The conversation included the allocation of costs for third-party inspections, with a suggestion that the applicant should cover these expenses to ensure compliance with approved designs.

Board members discussed the roles of various departments, including the building department and the Department of Public Works (DPW), in overseeing construction activities. The necessity of periodic inspections during significant site work was underscored, with a call for the DPW director and the building inspector to attend future meetings to clarify their roles.

Another topic was the proposed traffic calming measures for various areas, particularly Atwater Avenue. The discussion focused on the narrowness of the roadway and the potential for implementing rumble strips to alert drivers. Traffic engineer Doug Oer from Western Samson presented several recommendations, including centerline and shoulder line pavement markings and speed radar feedback signs. The conversation also touched on the feasibility of narrower lanes and the implications for cyclist safety.

The issue of adding a sidewalk on Atwater Avenue sparked debate. Concerns about the environmental impact of constructing in a wetland area were raised, with suggestions for alternative pedestrian access solutions. The board recognized the need for further input from relevant authorities to balance safety improvements with environmental preservation.

Additionally, the meeting covered the financial implications of ongoing projects, including the Reed Park and Morse Pier initiatives. The board discussed the projected revenue from Morse Pier, which is expected to exceed the current budget allocated for maintaining floats and piers. Concerns were raised about project specifications and the inclusion of additional utilities, with a citizen emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety regulations.

The board also addressed the MBTA districts and the development study facilitated by a grant obtained by a board member. The timeline for the study and the potential impact on town services versus increased tax revenues from new units were discussed. Suggestions were made to leverage existing studies from other towns to create a reliable framework for the analysis.

As the meeting concluded, the board emphasized the need for thorough studies and clear communication on all matters discussed. Attendees voiced their concerns and suggestions.