Matt Donovan from Kiola presented the MBTA’s request, emphasizing the necessity of confirming the accuracy of maps used for herbicide application. He detailed that chemical treatments would occur twice annually, targeting the road bed and brush. Sensitive areas marked on maps would be exempt from brush treatment but not from road bed treatment. Donovan assured that an environmental monitor would ensure compliance during the herbicide application process.

Commission members recalled a 2012 incident along the trolley line between Mattapan and Ashmont, where excessive herbicide application caused environmental damage. Concerns about repeating past mistakes were prevalent, with John Kieran recounting the incident and highlighting a previous consent agreement with the MBTA, which included financial compensation for damages and commitments to replanting efforts that were never fulfilled. This history fueled apprehensions about the current proposal.

Tom Palmer expressed a preference for mechanical methods over chemical treatments, especially in areas near sensitive wetlands. He and Kieran advocated for a cooperative agreement with the MBTA to avoid spraying in certain sensitive zones, emphasizing the need to protect local environmental integrity. The commission also delved into specifics about the herbicide mixture, application rates, and the distinction between railroad ties, ballast, and shoulders.

Further discussions highlighted concerns about the delineation of wetland areas, with members questioning the accuracy of the mapping. Assurance was sought that maps accurately represented existing wetland conditions.

As the meeting progressed, the commission grappled with balancing operational needs for vegetation management and the protection of Milton’s environmental resources. The board decided to deliberate on the MBTA’s request further, gathering necessary information to inform their decision on the proposed management methods.

The meeting then transitioned to other topics, including a parking lot repair and stormwater management project at H. Hotton’s Pond. A representative from ACOM, on behalf of Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), detailed the project, emphasizing its focus on the northeastern section of the parking lot and bathhouse area. The project would involve installing an infiltration gallery and flow control structure to manage stormwater runoff.

Concerns about potential contamination from oil and debris due to car usage in the parking lot were addressed, with assurances that the system would manage sediments and floating debris effectively. Members inquired about soil borings and subsurface conditions, with explanations provided about the infiltration gallery’s design and operation. The project aimed to improve water quality at Holton’s Pond and mitigate erosion issues caused by impervious surfaces contributing to stormwater runoff.

In addition, discussions also touched on a certificate of compliance related to a previous enforcement order on Canton Avenue. Members reflected on past incidents involving illegal dumping into a brook and the need for documentation to confirm compliance with previous directives. The need for an environmental professional’s report to validate the conditions set forth was emphasized.

The board also deliberated on a proposed addition to a property on Way Crescent, with concerns raised about the implications of increasing impervious surfaces. Members discussed stormwater management measures, such as the installation of a cultech chamber and the potential use of porous pavers to offset impacts.

Lastly, the board addressed tree replacement policies, debating the financial implications for developers and homeowners. The existing policy required a financial equivalent of $500 per tree for replacements, but rising costs prompted discussions about reevaluating this amount. Members considered the fairness of fees, especially for homeowners, and the importance of ensuring that financial penalties for not planting trees on site did not incentivize developers to opt for monetary contributions instead.