The central matter of the meeting was the request by Florence Bushy, the owner of Barry Trustee Bushy Real Estate Trust, for a performance bond related to the construction and reconstruction of a subdivision road between 21 and Newman Road. Representatives Ben Perez and TJ Melvin from Millennium Engineering presented their case, highlighting modifications to the original road plan. The road width was set to increase from 20 feet to 22 feet, resulting in an additional impervious area of slightly over 1,000 square feet. Melvin explained that this change represented a mere 1% increase in the drainage area converting from lawn to impervious surface. He argued that this minimal increase would not impact the stormwater system.

Despite these assurances, a letter from Joe Swatka questioned the implications of the expanded impervious area on stormwater management. Swatka reasoned that the dwelling’s footprint would exceed the additional impervious area resulting from the road widening. He maintained that the drainage system should accommodate the extra runoff. The board confirmed they had reviewed Swatka’s letter, and a request was made for Melvin to clarify the road width changes. Melvin noted that the road was not widened in certain areas, but curb radii were rounded out to 15 feet to enhance fire truck maneuverability.

The conversation also touched on fire safety provisions, specifically whether the original plans included a cistern or sprinkler systems. Ben Perez clarified that no record of a cistern existed in the original plans, and the design of the homes was yet to be finalized. The board recognized the need for collaboration with the fire and building departments in future design phases to address fire safety requirements.

Another aspect discussed was the status of the Homeowners Association (HOA) documents, pending Town Council approval. The chair emphasized ensuring that revised plans reference the original subdivision plans recorded at the time of approval. Despite the absence of a signed and recorded plan, the Town Council deemed the existing recorded plans adequate for guiding construction.

While the engineering team presented arguments for minimal impact, differing opinions, particularly from Swatka, suggested a need for vigilant oversight of the proposed changes’ implications.

In other business, the board approved a plan modification for another project unanimously. The performance bond estimate for this project also received unanimous approval, with the chair extending gratitude to Ben and DJ, wishing them luck.

The meeting proceeded with reports from other committees. The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) representative’s absence meant no report was provided from that entity. However, the Conservation Commission had recently approved a five-year management plan for K Island, which included controlled burning and tree removal to enhance bird habitats. Additionally, a regional planners meeting attended by a Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC) representative focused on municipal procurement benefits through state contracts. An update on the “my map” platform was shared, detailing improvements to parcel data anticipated to roll out soon.

The planner also updated the board on several ongoing and upcoming projects. An informal inquiry was received regarding the property on High Street, under agreement, with questions about permissible developments likely to be addressed at the next meeting. The Sunset Club is expected to request an extension for their site plan review, seeking modifications previously classified as major and requiring public notification and a hearing. A follow-up meeting concerning 34 Central Street was mentioned, with plans yet to be formally submitted.

Discussions also encompassed regional climate resiliency efforts, specifically economic vulnerability due to sea-level rise. Collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and UMass aims to identify vulnerable business sectors and geographic areas at risk. A previously denied grant for the Community Open Space and Recreation Plan was revived, funding public surveys and potential open space property improvements. A grant related to municipal vulnerability, particularly for Pine Island Road, was identified, addressing frequent flooding and associated risks.