The meeting’s most issue revolved around drainage and construction concerns on Endicott Avenue. Property owner Diana Caner, along with her mother and a representative from Vijgas LLC, presented plans to install new asphalt and a storm drain system in their yard. The proposal included a gravel-filled French drain intended to manage stormwater effectively. However, the Commission was wary of the potential increase in impervious surfaces due to the new asphalt, expressing concerns about the adequacy of the drainage system and the need for further verification.

A key point of contention was the proposed gravel depth beneath the pavers, with the property owner stating it was intended to be 18 inches. Yet, a commissioner sought assurance, emphasizing the necessity of verifying this depth in multiple locations. Concerns were also raised about contaminated fill material on the property, including asphalt and debris, which required removal to ensure a clean foundation for new topsoil. The importance of communication with neighboring property owners was underscored, particularly regarding drainage issues and maintaining original site grades.

Public comments amplified the urgency of these issues, with residents from a nearby property voicing significant concern about flooding attributed to the new construction at Endicott. Joanne Penise and her son Joe Py conveyed their struggles with water accumulation and the emergency measures they took to mitigate flooding, highlighting that the elevation of the neighboring land exacerbated their issues. These residents expressed strong opposition to the project, revealing a lack of prior consultation from developers and emphasizing their dissatisfaction with the communication process.

Commission members acknowledged the flooding concerns and discussed potential benefits of the proposed gravel filter and French drain. The chair suggested that the modifications could positively impact water retention and drainage in the area. However, residents voiced frustration over the removal of a previous retaining wall they believed helped manage water flow, further highlighting their displeasure with the lack of engagement from the developers.

In response, the Commission expressed a commitment to ensuring that property modifications do not negatively impact surrounding areas. An offer was made to facilitate a site visit to assess flooding issues and explore potential solutions. The dialogue between residents and the Commission underscored the importance of effective communication, with a Commission member noting the value of offering opinions and advice to improve water management.

Beyond the Endicott Avenue discussion, the Commission also considered modifications to an order of conditions for properties owned by Revier Mass LLC on Lee Burbank Highway. Representatives from the firm BHB detailed changes to the stormwater management system, including upsizing pumps and reducing detention volume to address cost-saving measures. The Commission approved these modifications without significant concern, recognizing the progress on the project’s demolition phase.

Additionally, the Commission addressed procedural matters related to a proposed five-story storage facility on American Legion Highway. Questions arose about the building’s height and the timeline for demolition, with the Commission expressing a desire to ensure that future approvals are granted only to projects with clear plans for immediate development. Members voiced discomfort with the idea of facilitating property sales without a firm commitment to remediation or construction.