The most debated topic was the continued public hearing for a special permit on Mills Street. The proposal included modifying existing decisions related to the Aquifer Protection District bylaw, seeking to increase non-conforming use for self-storage and alter a preexisting structure. A member of the public raised concerns about the gate’s placement, questioning its impact on parking regulations. The chair reassured that existing parking rules would be enforced by the building commissioner, and the board agreed on specific wording to clarify no overnight parking restrictions on certain property sides.

Simultaneously, the board reviewed a project on Oak Street, which proposed raising a single-family dwelling to construct a new one on a non-conforming lot. The applicant communicated with neighbors to resolve concerns, ensuring the plans met zoning bylaws for lot area, frontage, and depth. Despite some confusion regarding voting status, the board found that the new home would not be more detrimental to the neighborhood than the existing structure and approved the project with a three-to-one vote.

Another discussion centered on a property on West Central Street, where plans involved demolishing a non-historically significant house to erect a new one. The historical commission’s input led to revisions in the project’s scale, window designs, and garage layout. The board approved the project, recognizing it respected the neighborhood’s context.

During the deliberations for a property on Bacon Street, the board addressed concerns about a sizable oak tree and its implications for neighboring properties. A neighbor appreciated the applicant’s adjustment to move the house back to preserve the tree, although concerns about sunlight loss persisted. The board approved the project with conditions to maintain a fence and manage tree limbs.

The case of 87 Glen Street involved replacing an old garage with a new structure, supported by neighbors who had undertaken similar renovations. The board discussed the need for engineered drawings and potential tree trimming near the property line, eventually approving the project due to its alignment with the neighborhood’s character and design.

In another hearing, a new single-family dwelling on Curtis Road was proposed by Silva Development. The board emphasized stormwater management, given the high groundwater level, and required an infiltration system to mitigate potential impacts. Concerns about the project’s impact on the environment and neighborhood were raised, but the board approved the proposal with conditions for stormwater control.

Finally, the board discussed a split-lot project between Natick and Wellesley, involving significant excavation and stormwater management near a pond. The board stressed the importance of tree preservation and erosion control, approving the project with stipulations for compliance with submitted plans and department requirements.