0:00The most notable discussion centered around a Notice of Intent (NOI) for a property on Brookshire Avenue. The proposed project involved demolishing an existing house and constructing a new single-family home within the 100-foot buffer zone of Lake Kont and the 100-year flood zone. This project, continued from a prior meeting, required a site visit to assess trees on the property. The commission debated the necessity of removing healthy trees, particularly focusing on three trees near the northern boundary. Concerns were raised about removing healthy trees purely for aesthetic purposes without an arborist’s assessment. One member emphasized the need to adhere to bylaws protecting the area, particularly those restricting activity within a 50-foot buffer zone from the lake. Ultimately, the commission decided that if an arborist confirmed the trees were healthy, they should remain. The applicant’s proposal to plant 12 white birches and four service berries as replacements for the trees marked for removal sparked further debate. The commission aimed to ensure that replanting adequately compensated for the removal, maintaining ecological balance. After deliberation, the commission approved the project with conditions, including keeping three trees, enhancing erosion control measures, and requiring a $10,000 bond.

18:05Another compelling topic was the RDA application on Po Road, presented by an applicant identified as Alexander. The project involved constructing a swimming pool, garage, and deck, with parts encroaching on the 50-foot buffer zone, raising concerns about jurisdictional boundaries. Members questioned the feasibility of the RDA given the project’s scale and the anticipated ground disturbance, including grading for the pool. A previous project related to the property had not been fully resolved, complicating the current application. The commission determined that the RDA was insufficient and required the application to be revised and submitted as a Notice of Intent (NOI) to adequately address regulatory complexities.

40:08The meeting also addressed a variance application for annual dock removal on Berkshire Avenue. The dock could not be removed due to reconstruction at the neighboring Beaver Hospital, which encroached upon the dock. The commission unanimously approved a motion to sign the variance, acknowledging the unusual circumstances. Additionally, the meeting featured discussions on extending the order of conditions for the Southwick solar project at zero Hudson Drive. The project representative, Olivia Crosby, explained the need for an extension as utility installations and site stabilization were pending. Despite skepticism regarding the timeline, the commission approved a two-year extension.

0:00In the realm of community engagement, Cindy Christie, representing the Friends of the Southwick Rail Trail and chair of the New Haven North and North Hon Canal Greenway, highlighted the upcoming spring cleanup on April 26th. She advocated for promoting Southwick as an outdoor recreational community. Christie proposed creating brochures or a QR code linking to an interactive map of recreational areas, emphasizing the town’s potential for hiking and gardening.

18:05The commission also discussed agricultural site improvements on Hillside Road, where Jeff Smith presented plans for Christmas trees and blueberries within a 100-foot buffer. The proposal included a 15-foot vegetated buffer along an intermittent stream and managing invasive species. The commission approved the plan, finding it would not adversely impact the environment.

57:37Additional topics included discussions on the local Wetland applications revolving fund, a proposed amendment to clarify funding sources and spending authority, and the North Pond Conservation Area task force’s recommendations. Concerns were raised about storm drain discharge into South Pond, highlighting jurisdictional uncertainties and the need for collaborative efforts with relevant departments.