The primary topic of discussion was the presentation on the proposed partial removal of the Slates Mill Dam, led by Megan Karns, a wetland scientist from Weston and Samson. The dam, located on Mil Creek, has been a focal point of restoration efforts due to its location in a heavily altered urban tidal system. The dam’s removal is part of a broader Mil Creek Habitat Enhancement and Waterfront Access Improvement Project, which aims to restore ecological habitats, improve tidal function, and enhance public access. The project has already secured construction funding specifically for the dam removal portion.

Karns detailed the project’s background, noting that the area suffers from historical shoreline modifications and industrial development, which have led to trash accumulation and erosion. The proposed removal would impact 2,490 square feet of tidal flat and coastal storm flowage, with most disruptions being temporary. The work involves historical commissions and regulatory bodies to mitigate impacts, and educational signage will be installed to inform the public.

During the commission’s discussion, concerns were raised about how the partial removal would affect water flow and hydraulic conditions. Karns assured members that a hydraulic study showed no significant difference between partial and full dam removal in terms of tidal flushing, and that the project’s goals could be achieved without adverse impacts on the marsh area. The commission acknowledged the area’s current ecological limitations due to debris and man-made structures, and supported the project’s potential to enhance ecological health and accessibility.

Another issue addressed was the classification of a site on Salem Street near Overlook Ridge. David Cowell from Hancock Associates presented findings on whether a depressed feature in the area qualified as a jurisdictional wetland. The presence of Phragmites, a wetland indicator species, was noted, but Cowell reported that the soils did not meet the criteria for hydric soils, which are necessary for wetland classification. The commission debated the implications of this classification, especially given the site’s floodplain location and existing stormwater infrastructure issues.

Concerns were voiced about the site’s potential for flooding and its relation to coastal storm flowage. While the commission concluded that the area did not meet the criteria for a vegetated wetland, they recognized the need for caution due to its features related to storm flowage.

The commission also discussed the drainage system’s maintenance in the area, with reports of malfunctioning state and city systems contributing to poor drainage. The need for proper maintenance was emphasized to mitigate flooding issues, and the commission called for authorities to address the infrastructure problems.

Additionally, the commission reviewed a project involving the construction of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on Shower Street. Concerns were raised about the French drain system’s water storage capacity and the need for clarity on the submitted plans. The commission stressed the importance of obtaining permits for construction over easements, and the need for detailed information on stormwater management systems and materials for parking areas.

As the meeting concluded, the commission addressed additional business regarding properties that were encroaching on city easements without proper permits. A brief mention was made of National Grid’s communication regarding tree trimming to prevent power line interference. The commission reiterated the necessity for complete submissions before any determinations could be made, emphasizing the challenges posed by incomplete documentation.