The primary issue centered around a subdivision project involving three duplexes on a private road. The Planning Board clarified that this road, classified as a minor street, would not be maintained by the town, thereby placing all upkeep responsibilities, including snow plowing and repairs, on the homeowners. Board members suggested forming a Homeowners Association (HOA) to manage these obligations. This discussion was prompted by previous issues on King Phillip Way, where residents were unaware of their obligations regarding their private road.

The board also emphasized that while the town would own the water main up to the meter, all infrastructure related to the private road, including curbing and drainage systems, would not be maintained by the town. This understanding was critical in preventing potential future disputes or misunderstandings about maintenance responsibilities. A member highlighted concerns that residents might still call the town for repairs if issues arose on the private road. The board noted the importance of communicating these responsibilities clearly to prospective homeowners to avoid confusion.

The conversation shifted to the project’s approval by the fire department, which confirmed that emergency vehicles could navigate the cul-de-sac with ease. The board then opened the floor to public comments, during which tensions rose as residents voiced their concerns.

Resident Debbie Winston expressed dissatisfaction with the perceived inability of the town planner to answer questions satisfactorily. She accused the board of showing a lack of respect for town leadership, prompting the chair to steer the conversation back to the meeting’s agenda. In response to Winston’s concerns, a member suggested that she could run for a board position in the next election to address her issues from within the board.

Another resident, Joel Reahan, raised concerns about the proximity of the proposed development to his property, stressing the need for natural screening between the new development and existing homes. He was particularly concerned about landscaping and the potential cutting down of trees that currently serve as a natural barrier. The board clarified that while zoning codes dictate setbacks to maintain distance from property lines, once land is sold, new owners have the right to alter the landscape, including tree removal. However, they acknowledged the possibility of requesting screening from the developer to address privacy and environmental concerns.

The board discussed the potential for a buffer zone along property lines, estimating a distance of about 75 to 100 feet between the proposed lot and existing trees. They noted that making such a requirement permanent would be impractical. The board planned to address the landscaping plan with the conservation director to ensure appropriate screening measures.

Earlier in the meeting, the board reviewed a special permit application for a property on Sturdy Street. The applicant, Thomas Crossy, withdrew his proposal to build a duplex, instead focusing on constructing an accessory dwelling unit with a single-family home. The board approved the withdrawal without prejudice. An audience member raised a technical concern about the address associated with the application, questioning the logic of assigning a “zero” address.

Additionally, the board discussed SP 33 and SPR 18 for a property on West Main Street, where Corvo Properties sought approval for a four-story building and renovations to an existing food and beverage retail store. The applicant requested a continuance due to a pending traffic study, which the board approved.

The board also examined a definitive plan and special permit for one Abu Lane, submitted by Marise Legacy Real Estate. The proposal involved creating three residential lots with duplexes on a 7.5-acre parcel. A representative presented the project plans, which included a drainage easement and the extension of Abu Lane into a cul-de-sac. The board deliberated on whether separate special permits were necessary for each duplex but agreed that the subdivision would be approved based on current conditions.