Central to the meeting was the Dollar General project on College Highway. The board received an order from the Land Court requiring them to hold a public remand hearing, emphasizing the urgency to comply with judicial timelines. A proposed date of December 17th was considered, but there was notable concern about proceeding without the input of a board member who previously voted against the project. The absence of this member raised questions about the appropriateness of moving forward with the hearing, sparking debate on whether an executive session with Town Council was necessary to discuss the legal implications. The court’s remand stipulates that if the board fails to issue a decision, the ruling defaults to the previous decision, adding pressure to the timeline.

In addition to the Dollar General project, the board delved into infrastructure security, particularly regarding stormwater management. Weekly work on the town’s infrastructure projects is ongoing, with the transition to a significant metal bridge crossing halting paving until completion. A issue emerged concerning unresolved stormwater infrastructure problems at a particular project site, leading to a negative recommendation due to missing monumentation and compliance issues. The stormwater conveyance system’s inadequacies, stemming from an improperly constructed transition from open channel to pipe system, have led to unresolved issues and the withholding of a certificate of compliance.

The meeting further addressed the malfunctioning fire suppression system on this property, with the fire department’s inspection revealing maintenance lapses by the homeowners association or developer. This situation raised questions about the town’s potential involvement in maintaining the system and the financial implications of necessary repairs. Board members debated the prudence of accepting the project with outstanding problems, emphasizing the need for a clear plan and funding solutions. Suggestions included exploring repair funding through homeowner assessments and clarifying the town’s position through communication with the select board.

The board also discussed the placement of residential units in a proposed project near College Highway. Concerns were raised over fire suppression regulations. However, this proposal faced criticism for resembling a single-family home in a business-restricted zone, conflicting with zoning regulations that favor mixed-use development. The debate centered on the compliance of such a configuration with existing bylaws and the potential precedent it could establish. Board members acknowledged the need for review and potential bylaw amendments, particularly for accessory dwelling units and site plan review processes.

Additionally, the town planner’s report shed light on the upcoming expiration of the extended decision for the condominium community on Depot Street in December. The planner also addressed increased complaints about short-term rentals, pointing to a specific property as the source of issues, and outlined ongoing efforts to address these concerns through board communications.