The most notable topic of the meeting was the approval of an ANR plan that facilitates the conveyance of a parcel of land to the town of Southampton for conservation purposes. Represented by Mark Casses from the Open Space Committee, the deal involves the acquisition of land from owners Jeffrey and Carolyn Floric. This land is currently under Chapter 61A and will be used for conservation. The deal was secured with a 34% contribution from Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds and 66% from a state land grant program. Casses presented a survey of the property detailing the combination of parcels, with the larger portion, known as parcel 3, to be conveyed to the town. It was emphasized that Kestrel Land Trust, alongside the town, would hold a conservation restriction.

Discussion during the meeting revealed concerns about the boundary lines of the property, particularly on the right side. Casses addressed the board’s inquiries, stating that discussions were ongoing with town officials to determine if a title certification could fulfill state requirements before the sale’s closing. A board member raised the possibility of needing an amendment to the ANR should any changes to the property occur before the closing. Casses agreed that any changes would necessitate a revision to the existing plan.

The board also deliberated on waiving the typical $125 ANR process fee, considering the project’s conservation nature and the town’s budget constraints. The board reached a consensus to waive the fee, and the motion passed unanimously.

Following the conservation deal, the board addressed a minor change to the site plan for Bista Orchards, presented by Mike Zeian from Blue Wave Energy. The project, located on East Street, required adjustments due to changes in the solar module market, necessitating approval from the board. The modifications involved extending the work area to the southern end while maintaining compliance with existing setbacks. The board members confirmed that the new design did not encroach on the original work area or infringe upon neighboring properties. After minimal discussion, a motion to approve the changes was made, seconded, and unanimously passed.

The board then turned its attention to a new cell tower proposal by the Atlantic Wireless Committee at One Crook Road. With all necessary documents and peer reviews in order, a public hearing was scheduled for June 3rd. This was noted as the most current item on the agenda. Additionally, the board prepared for an upcoming meeting on May 20th to review a draft concerning battery energy storage, with the intent to discuss any necessary changes before it was sent for public hearing.

An issue arose regarding a recently rejected building permit application due to a lack of clarity on the area of disturbance, critical for compliance with local zoning laws. The applicant, who was not named, faced difficulties because the land was purchased without a clear plot plan. The board discussed the challenges of assessing the site from aerial photography and the need for a proper site visit to determine the extent of soil disturbance. It was noted that the applicant relied on outdated plans, and there was disappointment expressed over the applicant’s failure to consult the building inspector’s requirements or the town’s website. Conversations focused on enhancing communication with applicants to improve the permitting process and raise awareness about zoning regulations before excavation.