0:00The most notable development involved the board’s review of the revised plans for 107-111 Highland Street, a project that had already faced extensive scrutiny and an appeal to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The board examined modifications to the original plans, which had been adjusted by the Milton Planning Board to address concerns from various stakeholders, including the fire chief who requested a larger driveway turnaround. These changes resulted in a more environmentally sensitive project, reducing the building footprint and minimizing the impervious surface area, thus enhancing wetland protection as per the Wetland Protection Act and local bylaws.

A issue was the special condition concerning tree removal and replacement from the original order, which mandated that any trees removed, specifically those over 3.5 inches in diameter, be replaced or financially compensated. The initial financial estimate for tree replacement was about $347,000, expected to decrease due to the reduced building footprint. However, the DEP’s superseding order did not include this condition, prompting the board to seek legal counsel.

Legal counsel guided the board in considering a memorandum of understanding (MOU) proposed by the applicant, which aimed to reintroduce the tree replacement condition. This MOU was seen as a way to bind the applicant to the original obligations.

The meeting featured presentations from project representatives, including Ned Corkran and engineering consultant Paul Avery, who outlined the project’s revisions. They highlighted a 1,500 square foot reduction in building footprint and the elimination of 15 parking spaces, changes designed to comply with environmental standards and enhance community aesthetics.

39:36Community concerns were a focal point, with several residents and representatives expressing apprehensions about the project’s impact on local resources. Attorney Elizabeth Pile argued that the revised plans were substantial enough to warrant a new public hearing, citing significant alterations to the driveway, building footprint, and wetland replication areas. She, along with other community members, urged the Commission to require an amended order of conditions to allow for public input, emphasizing the importance of transparency and review.

In response, co-counsel for the applicant, Jesse Alderman, contended that the changes did not constitute significant alterations and that, overall, they reduced the project’s impact. He emphasized that the Commission’s review should be limited to the local bylaw, as the DEP’s superseding order preempts contrary decisions.

0:00The dialogue revealed a community eager for a more robust review process to ensure that their concerns were adequately addressed.

The board voted on two key items: first, whether the proposed changes were insignificant alterations without substantial impact on protected resources, and second, whether to approve the revisions.

2:15:02In addition to the Highland Street project, the board addressed other agenda items, including the approval of a certificate of compliance for a minor modification to a project at 11 WWTH Farm. This modification involved managing water runoff more effectively due to a construction error. The board also discussed signage within the Blue Hills reservation, proposing a solution to streamline the notification process for new sign installations.

The meeting concluded with discussions on new business, such as the development of a 40B housing project on Randolph Avenue and the hiring of a new environmental coordinator. The coordinator’s role will involve pursuing state and federal grants, with an introduction to the Conservation Commission scheduled for February.