The meeting began with a discussion about tree cutting on Foster Road. Chris Pratt mentioned that a resident had asked him to investigate changes on the site, which had recently received a certificate of compliance. The current owner had been advised to submit a Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA) due to observed tree cutting. The Commission decided to monitor the situation further to ensure compliance with local environmental regulations.

A critical part of the meeting was a public hearing concerning a Notice of Intent (NOI) for the construction of a single-family home on Foster Road, which lies within the riverfront buffer zone. Steve, a scientist from Fog Hunter Ecological, presented updates, noting that the home would have a footprint of 25 by 25 feet. He explained that the construction site was chosen to minimize riverfront impact, stating, “the house is set back at the minimum distance required” due to a denied variance for the frontage setback. The Commission sought clarification on whether the zoning setbacks and wetland buffers were included in the updated plans, which Steve confirmed.

The discussion revealed concerns about whether the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) comments pertained to the current or previous plans. Steve acknowledged uncertainty about whether the latest plans had been submitted to the DEP, highlighting the need for clarity on the filing status of the NOI and the DEP’s comments. To ensure proper demarcation of project boundaries, the Commission suggested placing boundary markers at 50-foot intervals, a condition Steve was amenable to.

The meeting also focused on regulatory compliance related to docks on Connecticut waters, particularly concerning public access rights and the potential obstruction caused by dock and boat placements. The Commission noted that the Land Management Committee (LMC) had recommended that no docks or boats be allowed without the property owner’s explicit consent. It was noted that such associations must be non-profit organized entities, although individual homeowners could still submit applications.

Further complexities were discussed regarding dock placements, particularly given the unique jurisdictional situation where Connecticut owns the land while Massachusetts owns the water. The need for homeowners to register their association with Connecticut and follow IRS guidelines for non-profits was mentioned. Additionally, there were logistical details about submitting applications for docks and ensuring navigational routes remained clear for all residents.

A significant issue arose concerning the property on Chestnut Circle, associated with a stream that the LMC believes has diminished over the years, leading to the creation of new land. There was a suggestion to contact the homeowner for a copy of the deed to clarify property rights and regulations concerning docks and boats.

The Commission also addressed a request for a certificate of compliance for a property on Luma Street. A site visit revealed that restoration efforts had not been completed as required, with photos showing discrepancies between the current and preconstruction conditions. Essential elements like the importation of wetland soils and the planting of specified vegetation had not been carried out, leading to concerns about soil conditions.

In new business, the Commission discussed the temporary closure of the North Pond Conservation Area parking lot and the approval of a Land Management plan. A member proposed reading through the draft plan before the next meeting for deeper discussion, with the intention of collaborating with a task force to ensure proper management of the area. They also discussed the need for snow fencing to prevent erosion and unauthorized access, with estimates for fencing supplies provided.

The meeting concluded with updates on proposed amendments to the local land management plan, coordination for signage production, and discussions on a subdivision extension request and potential wetland violations. After a motion to adjourn was made and seconded, the meeting concluded at 8:20 PM.