0:00The meeting began with insights from the town planner, who discussed a draft analysis presented by Greg Dy, chair of the Economic Development Commission. This analysis sought to evaluate the potential benefits of new business projects entering the town. However, the town planner raised concerns about its practical application, especially regarding its integration into existing bylaws or its utility during public hearings. The analysis was seen as potentially advisory without clear, actionable directives for the board members. Emphasizing the importance of filtering sensitive evaluations from the Economic Development Commission, the planner aimed to prevent any misleading information from reaching the board or the public.

The board also reviewed ongoing discussions with Loar Energy regarding the Goosepond solar project. These talks included the legalities of accessing town property to connect to transmission lines, which would require licensing agreements. It was noted that any proposed projects would undergo reviews to ascertain their community impact.

In another update, a meeting with Jim Bole about 62A College Highway was highlighted. Bole presented revisions to his draft plans addressing earlier concerns related to safety, traffic management, and emergency access. The town planner expressed optimism about these changes. This project, along with others discussed, underscores the board’s focus on improving local infrastructure and ensuring public safety.

The board also addressed matters concerning 6 South L Street. Jesse Saltmarsh, representing Noble Steve, updated the board on ongoing communications with Randy Brown regarding a culvert crossing. Challenges with cost estimates were discussed, as well as the importance of state approval for the proposed plans. Saltmarsh assured the board that work was progressing and emphasized that current discussions were centered on bond money rather than project delays. He made it clear that they were not seeking to reduce the bond but aimed to avoid increasing it, highlighting the need for financial clarity as the project moved forward.

14:06In terms of infrastructure, the discussion expanded to cover drainage issues raised by residents. Ongoing sidewalk and curbing work was identified as a solution to these concerns, with a focus on connecting drainage structures to manage runoff and prevent freezing issues. The timeline for remaining construction work was also addressed, with updates planned every two weeks.

Further, the board received an update on a meeting with Rob LEC concerning a development project that involved a fire pond or fire system. A draft plan was shared, outlining an easement area for the system, which would undergo further review by the fire chief. Ensuring access through a common driveway was emphasized, and a public hearing was scheduled for December 17th to continue discussions.

Attention then turned to the impact of recent weather events on local drainage systems. A significant rainstorm led to the completion of work on Basin number five over Depot Square, where the basin was reconstructed and a drainage manhole cover was reset. The developer’s statement on the system’s efficacy was awaited before releasing the security funds tied to the project.

The board also evaluated sign permits for the ROM restaurant, confirming that the replacement sign panels met dimensional requirements. This prompted a positive recommendation from the planning board, which was unanimously supported by its members.

In the meeting’s concluding segment, staff comments included registration for an upcoming meeting hosted by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, focusing on bylaw updates in light of new accessory dwelling unit regulations. The first reading of the master plan implementation committee was also slated for December 11th.