03:23One notable matter at the meeting was the discussion and approval of plan revisions for a project located on Mansfield. The Commission was presented with a detailed account of the issues related to ADA compliance, necessitating significant modifications to the site’s design. John Thomas provided an overview of the challenges encountered, particularly with the slope of the parking area, which exceeded the maximum allowed for ADA compliance. Mike, from the project team, illustrated the adjustments made to correct the slope, which involved raising the parking area by about a foot. These modifications were essential to create an accessible walkway with a 4.33% slope, transitioning into a pre-cast concrete ramp at 12.69%.

11:39The discussion was thorough, with Mike explaining the installation of a granite curb to maintain area integrity and the creation of retention ponds to manage flood storage. The Commission members were assured that volume calculations for compensatory storage were accounted for, providing construction flexibility while maintaining the project’s original footprint. The Commission unanimously approved the proposed changes, facilitating the project’s continuation.

14:18Attention then shifted to the property on Rear Old Colony Road, where Rebecca from Silver Engineering presented updates on the project. These updates addressed prior concerns about a nearby vernal pool, prompting the relocation of the entire basin outside a newly established 100-foot no-touch area. This relocation necessitated raising the site elevation by two feet, affecting drainage delineations while enhancing stormwater management. Rebecca assured the Commission that the discharge location was selected to prevent direct impact on neighboring properties, instead allowing gradual feeding of the vernal pool.

19:19John Thomas raised the need for the project to undergo peer review due to the elevation changes. Rebecca confirmed readiness for such review, seeking the Commission’s input before proceeding. The dialogue also covered the necessity of a guardrail for safety, with plans including a pre-manufactured gravity wall. Acknowledging the significance of these changes, the Commission voted unanimously to continue the public hearing to July 14, allowing time for peer review.

21:18In routine matters, the Commission reviewed requests for certificates of compliance. The request for a property on North Washington Street involved the decommissioning of a septic system and site improvements. John Thomas confirmed the project met all requirements, leading to unanimous approval for a full certificate of compliance. Similarly, the compliance request for a property on Taton Avenue, which covered raising an existing house and constructing a new single-family home with a septic system, also received unanimous approval despite concerns about a heat wave affecting grass health.

23:36As the meeting drew to a close, acknowledgments were given to members Paxton and Tamah, who would not be renewing their terms. The Commission expressed gratitude for their contributions and extended well wishes for their future endeavors. The meeting concluded with a reminder of the next gathering scheduled for July 14, and a cautionary note about the upcoming July 4th holiday.