The most contentious topic was the proposed subdivision on Cyprus Road, drawing considerable attention from local residents who voiced their apprehensions. Rick Morrell, involved in the project, provided insights into the ongoing design discussions. Despite the project’s introduction in fall 2024, residents like Eric Free from Magnolia Road expressed concerns about increased traffic on the narrow Cyprus Road, which he characterized as unsuitable for additional development due to its limited width and existing traffic challenges. Free raised a deed restriction issue, claiming it prohibited subdivision for 30 years, further complicating the project.

The Planning Board clarified that enforcement of private deed restrictions was not within their purview, focusing instead on zoning compliance and subdivision regulations. Residents, including Free, were left to consider further actions regarding the deed restriction dispute.

Another concern centered on environmental impacts. Residents like Bob McCall of Cypress Road and Eric Hall from Evergreen Road highlighted the potential negative consequences of the proposed developments on local wildlife and water systems. McCall emphasized the need for an impact study addressing environmental and safety concerns, particularly with construction vehicles and increased traffic from new residents. Both McCall and Hall questioned the adequacy of planning considerations regarding septic systems and their proximity to waterways, given the potential for increased pollution.

Residents also worried about the potential for increased noise and habitat destruction resulting from tree removal. This sentiment was echoed by Diana Mills and others who stressed the importance of preserving the wooded area as a natural buffer against noise from the nearby Massachusetts Turnpike. Mills described the potential development as “devastating” for the community.

The Planning Board acknowledged these concerns but emphasized their role in ensuring compliance with existing regulations. Residents like Julia Cowen from Evergreen Road expressed frustration over the lack of safety measures and poor road infrastructure, exacerbated by existing and potential construction activities.

In addition to the Cyprus Road project, the meeting addressed ongoing discussions about an Open Space Residential Development (OSRD) project, expected to progress in the coming months. The board emphasized the importance of planning ahead, noting existing work plans and the need for public engagement in shaping the development’s parameters. Board members discussed forming a working group to aid in outlining the OSRD, highlighting the need for flexibility in member participation based on availability.

The meeting also touched on broader regulatory initiatives, including updates to zoning articles and the use regulation schedule. The board reviewed recent approvals and pending submissions, noting the completion of floodplain district zoning and the deletion of the indoor recreational overlay district. Future focus areas include off-street parking and intensity regulation schedules.

A related topic was the status of local roads and the town’s role in maintaining them. A speaker highlighted past issues with road acceptance, noting improvements by the Department of Public Works in formalizing maintenance strategies. There was a call for potential funding overrides to address road conditions, reflecting ongoing frustrations over the town’s road maintenance responsibilities.