0:08The meeting began with a request from Gam Lan LLC’s manager, Adam True, to close out the Gadston Lane residential subdivision. True presented various documents, including the final as-built plan and a letter of completion from the engineers. He highlighted that the roadway and signage had received approval from the Department of Public Services director, and screen planting had been completed with a neighboring property. However, a point of contention was the status of a tripartite agreement, which typically involves the town, developer, and bank to ensure project completion.

True argued against the necessity of extending or renewing the agreement, asserting that no funds were held by the bank, as he had financed the completion himself. This deviated from usual practice, prompting board members to express concerns over the lack of an extended agreement before closure. There was a consensus that consultation with the Town Council was essential, as closing out without an extension was atypical. The board decided to schedule a site visit, aligning with customary procedures, to ensure all developments were satisfactory before closing the project.

18:15Concurrently, the board addressed the Florence Bushy Lane subdivision, specifically focusing on a bond estimate reviewed by Joe Saka and prepared by Millennium Engineering. The estimate, which received Joe’s approval with additional comments, covered the road construction costs. However, concerns arose over existing structures such as a potting shed and a retaining wall. The shed, positioned between two lots, necessitated an easement agreement for lot transfers. Furthermore, a retaining wall associated with lot one’s driveway needed relocation for the road project.

Fire truck accessibility became a safety discussion point, with the board reviewing a template showing that fire trucks could navigate the site, albeit off-pavement. This highlighted the necessity to evaluate the road width, especially during emergencies. The current subdivision design approved a 20-foot-wide road, but members considered a proposal to widen it to 22 feet for improved safety. This modification, deemed minor, aimed to ensure adequate space for emergency vehicles, particularly given the single access point for the subdivision.

36:42The board unanimously supported this road width increase, acknowledging its importance for public safety. They agreed to treat the adjustment as a minor modification, allowing it to proceed without a complete resubmission process. Updated plans reflecting this change were to be submitted, and the bond estimate adjusted accordingly.

53:20The board also discussed the progress of the housing production plan, which was recently presented to the Select Board and adopted for state review. The plan aligns with ongoing zoning initiatives to enhance housing diversity and affordability. Additionally, the board welcomed an intern, Stie Woodward, who will assist in updating the town’s open space and recreation plan, contributing to environmental efforts.