At the forefront of the meeting was the application submitted by RNC Prime Properties regarding the properties on McKinley Avenue and Pasco Road. The attorney for RNC Prime Properties, participating via Zoom, emphasized that the application was a continuation of a previously approved subdivision and sought approval for constructing single-family homes on the newly subdivided lots. The application did not request any use or density variances, aligning with the existing residential zoning requirements.

The board heard from the applicant’s engineer, who detailed the demolition of existing structures to accommodate the new homes. Notably, the engineer explained adjustments to the setback requirements, ensuring compliance with updated zoning ordinances, particularly regarding a covered porch that now falls within permissible limits. A notable point of discussion was the tree mitigation plan. Initially, the project proposed the removal and replanting of 44 trees, but the applicant sought to reduce the replanting requirement to 22, which prompted a board member to request a greater variety of tree species in the replanting plan to enhance landscaping diversity.

In addition to tree-related concerns, the board considered the proposed height increase of the new structure from 25 to 28 feet. They discussed the implications this change might have on the design, including ceiling heights on the first and second floors, and confirmed that the architect was available to provide further details if necessary. The board stressed ensuring that all construction elements adhered to stormwater management protocols and engineering recommendations to facilitate a smooth approval process.

The second focus of the meeting was another RNC Prime Properties application for a site on Pasc Road, characterized as conforming and requiring no existing structure removal. The board reviewed the soil management plan, which involved moving 514 cubic yards, and discussed minimal tree presence on the property. The applicant agreed to adjust the number of newly planted trees based on board preferences.

Discussions further included logistical considerations for the development, such as the potential reuse of an existing sewer contingent on a video inspection and the installation of necessary utility services, including gas and water lines. The board also addressed the challenges of coordinating these services, especially given the depth of the existing sewer line and the lack of current utility connections on the property. The requirement for police traffic control during road work was noted due to the anticipated disruption caused by excavation activities.

The meeting also saw the approval of various procedural resolutions, such as the establishment of planning board meeting dates for 2026 and the appointment of key roles within the board, including the swearing-in of new members. Lenny Sabo was elected as Planning Board Chairman, and Bill Carroll was chosen as Vice Chair, with both appointments receiving unanimous board approval.

Amid these discussions, the meeting briefly addressed an application concerning an underground storage tank that required removal, as well as the installation of a turnaround area and drainage system compliant with county regulations. The board deliberated on the aesthetic and privacy considerations of cutting arborvitae trees in half, ultimately expressing a preference for maintaining a full row along the property boundary.

The meeting concluded with reflections on past council experiences and an anecdote highlighting the brevity with which a former council member expressed agreement during a debate. This light-hearted moment contrasted with the otherwise structured and detailed proceedings of the meeting.