02:33The South Main Street project discussion dominated the session as the Commission reviewed preliminary feedback from the BSC Group. The initial email from BSC highlighted concerns over the site’s stormwater management plan and proposed a staged approach to site work, emphasizing pollution prevention and erosion control. However, the report noted a lack of specific details on handling ledge removal, a critical factor due to its potential impact on downstream resources. This prompted the Commission to decide on continuing the discussion in their upcoming meeting, with the expectation of receiving a full report from BSC Group to guide their decisions.

04:19A point of debate was the necessity of a southern road included in the site plan. While initial assessments suggested no direct access to homes, it was clarified that doors indeed led to this road. The design of the project, which remains relatively level despite the grade change, raised concerns, with BSC suggesting that stepping the development could minimize blasting requirements. Additionally, the landscape plans were questioned for potentially inaccurate clearing limits and tree planting in areas where significant ledge cuts would occur, sparking a dialogue about the adequacy of soil for plant growth.

06:45In light of these concerns, the Commission unanimously agreed to defer further decisions until their next meeting, emphasizing the importance of having the comprehensive report from BSC Group. This delay is intended to facilitate a more informed decision-making process.

08:33Shifting focus to community connectivity, the Commission explored the Sudbury Aqueduct feasibility study, assessing potential trail connections throughout Natick. The study, while comprehensive, highlighted deed and parcel references, prompting the Commission to prioritize exploring recommended routes using GIS maps. Notably, gaps in public access were identified, particularly near Union Street, where connecting trails across private properties posed challenges. The Commission discussed negotiating easements or agreements with property owners, including Honeywell CR Land, to bridge these gaps and enhance trail connectivity.

16:45The conversation about trail connectivity extended to other areas, including undeveloped parcels linked to a residential home on Woodland Street. The Commission considered potential conservation restrictions or easements to facilitate public access, providing a route to Libby Road and connecting to Scarsdale Road. Alternative options, such as a crosswalk on Union Street to link with Arrow Path, were discussed, though deemed less direct.

The meeting also addressed the issue of incomplete conservation restrictions (CRs), particularly concerning Honeywell properties. Several CRs lacked the necessary signatures, prompting a request for $50,000 in community project funding for legal assistance to complete these CRs. This step is important for updating the open space and recreation plan by 2030.

29:04Wildlife management emerged as another topic, with discussions on beaver trapping efforts due to high water concerns, particularly in Piri Pond. An emergency trapping request had been approved, and traps were set in Town Forest, though no successful trapping was reported. This led to a debate about the need for public signage to inform about the traps, considering potential interactions with off-leash dogs.

41:27Concerns about the presence of killdeer, a ground-nesting bird, at Arlington Circle Open Space were raised, with Mass Wildlife recommending leaving the birds undisturbed due to their short nesting period. There was acknowledgment of community discussions on local platforms, but no immediate action was deemed necessary.

45:33The Commission also reviewed the Picker Pond connector bridge project, expressing frustration over the determination process based on historical maps. The status of the pond as a “great pond” was debated, impacting the need for a Chapter 91 license for any construction.

46:42Updates on the Hazard Mitigation Plan and the MVP 2.0 program were shared, with the latter focusing on equity and environmental justice. A grant application for culvert replacement under Everett Street was also discussed, building on previous successful temporary repairs.