One of the primary topics was the Notice of Intent for a project on Feeding Hills Road. The applicant sought to build a two-family dwelling with associated site improvements, some of which would occur within the buffer zone of the Agawam River. The commission requested additional evidence to confirm the stream’s intermittent status, which would affect the buffer requirements. The applicant’s previous proposal from 2012 had similarly classified the stream, but the commission needed more documentation to affirm this classification. The hearing was continued for two weeks, allowing time for the necessary stream documentation to be gathered.

Another discussion centered on the Notice of Intent for a proposed single-family home on Foster Road. This project had previously attracted comments from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection concerning the house’s positioning. The site was described as the most viable location given its topographical constraints, with a perennial stream and vegetated wetlands nearby. The commission discussed the necessity of conditioning the installation of dry wells to manage runoff effectively and protect the riverfront area. There was also talk of establishing a conservation restriction to prevent unauthorized alterations and ensuring compliance through monumentation and fencing. The hearing was closed, with the commission planning to review the order of conditions at a subsequent meeting.

The meeting also addressed two Requests for Determination. The first was for tree removal on Berkshire Avenue due to safety concerns from damaged and unstable trees within a 100-foot buffer zone of Lake Congamond. An arborist had recommended removing six trees, four of which were within the buffer zone. The commission approved the tree removal project, pending further conditions to be established later. The second RDA involved the demolition of an old fire association building on Depot Street, situated within a riverfront zone. The commission approved this project with assurances of minimal environmental disruption.

The commission further explored a complex issue regarding dock installations on North Lake Avenue. The docks, spanning 1,800 square feet in total, exceeded the allowable surface area. Complications arose over property ownership and registration, with the first dock extending over two property lines. Questions about the issuance of stickers without proper layout sheets highlighted longstanding regulatory challenges. The commission agreed on the need for thorough investigations before any motions could be made.

Additionally, the commission discussed a request for a Certificate of Compliance for a retaining wall on Beach Road. The death of the wall’s builder complicated the provision of necessary documentation, which remained outstanding. Concerns about potential impacts on a pending property sale led to the request being tabled until compliance confirmation could be secured.

A project at Baker Shore in South Pond also drew attention, where an outfall installed on private property by the town raised questions about legal ownership and water quality impacts. The commission agreed to investigate further before making any decisions.