The meeting began with the commission addressing a certificate of compliance for a project on Woodland Street. This project involved the construction of a single-family home on an undeveloped lot, incorporating stormwater infiltration systems and a large retaining wall. The project engineer presented inspection reports confirming compliance with the approved design plan, with necessary markers installed along the retaining wall. After a brief discussion and unanimous approval, the certificate of compliance was granted, concluding a project characterized as straightforward despite challenges related to grading and adhering to a no-disturb line.

Next, the commission evaluated a request for determination of applicability for a property on Edwards Road. Homeowner Joshua Conti proposed to level part of his yard, build a patio, and construct a retaining wall to address drainage issues and improve usability for family activities. Conti plans for the backyard, emphasizing the need for a flat surface for his son’s soccer practice. The commission reviewed plan documents and addressed concerns about a playhouse encroaching on Department of Conservation and Recreation land. Conti explained the playhouse’s significance, noting it was not mobile and was built during the COVID-19 pandemic. The commission and homeowner discussed the project’s scope, including the portable fire pit and landscaping plans.

The meeting also covered landscaping changes involving patios and a pergola, highlighting the need for a building permit. Approval was granted for the native landscaping, including the placement of a red bud tree. Fencing and a potential shed installation were discussed for future approval. A unanimous motion closed the determination, and participants were reminded to adhere strictly to plans due to the nearby riverfront area.

A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to a grant application update for regional flood mitigation efforts. Natick was designated as the fiscal lead in collaboration with the Charles River Watershed Association. An application for South Natick Parks construction funding was discussed, with a parcel near the library removed due to historic monitoring requirements. The speaker underscored the importance of precise timelines in grant applications to remain competitive.

The commission reviewed a draft letter of support for the South Natick Parks grant application. Members suggested minor edits before authorizing the letter’s signing, emphasizing urgency due to the application deadline. The motion to authorize the signing was unanimously approved.

The meeting concluded with updates on the Springtown meeting, noting the commission had no specific items on the agenda. The revolving fund for stormwater filing fees authorization was confirmed, with the first town meeting scheduled for April 28th. Meeting dates were adjusted to accommodate Passover, setting the first April meeting for April 1st and another for April 23rd, with May meetings also confirmed.