The meeting’s primary focus was on a request for determination of applicability (RDA) for a project on Sunset Drive, Plum Island. The applicant, Connor Christu, sought to address severe flooding issues by removing invasive species and installing a privacy fence along with native plantings. Connor expressed the urgency of his situation, recounting the extensive flooding that had plagued his property, particularly in recent months. His proposal included replacing the invasive beach rose with native flora and constructing a mortarless engineered wall to hold sand in place and mitigate storm damage.

However, the proposal sparked a debate among commission members. Concerns were raised about the project’s compliance with performance standards for coastal dunes. The suitability of constructing concrete footings and walls in the sensitive dune environment was questioned, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the ecological impact. There was consensus among the members that the scope of work proposed exceeded the limitations of an RDA.

Further complicating the matter was the lack of consultation with a wetland professional, prompting members to recommend that Connor withdraw his RDA to avoid denial and work towards a more comprehensive plan.

Another focal point of the meeting was the enforcement order related to unauthorized work at Old Twoo Road, known as Sunset Club. The commission debated whether to maintain the enforcement order until full compliance with both the expired and newly approved orders of conditions was achieved. Members expressed differing opinions on the matter, weighing the need for continued oversight against the implications of closing the order prematurely. Ultimately, the decision to close the enforcement order was made, although some members expressed reservations about the potential impact on future compliance efforts.

The meeting also addressed several other properties requiring compliance verification and discussed the issuance of certificates of compliance for completed projects. At 16 Riverfront Drive, the commission approved a certificate of compliance following a site visit that confirmed satisfactory vegetation conditions. Similarly, a certificate was issued for a dock installation on High Road after confirming that the vegetation beneath the dock was healthy and consistent with surrounding areas.

In addition, the commission examined a proposed driveway project within the 100-foot buffer zone to a salt marsh area. The revised plans, presented by Bill Holt, included adjustments to the delineation of the Coastal Bank as per DEP guidelines. The discussion revolved around the need for accurate environmental documentation and the potential impact of tidal creeks near the site. A suggestion was made to explore more permeable surface options for the driveway to reduce impervious area.

The meeting concluded with administrative matters, including a request to release an easement on Parker Street and a correction to a previously issued order of conditions.