The most contentious topic was Eversource’s request to install an underground trench for electrical conduit along Manhan Road. This proposal sparked debate due to the road’s Scenic designation, which introduces certain regulatory requirements. However, the absence of a formal Scenic Road bylaw in Southampton complicated the approval process.

Concerns were raised by resident Justin Viet, who highlighted potential logistical issues, such as disruptions to school bus schedules and emergency access, due to the road’s narrowness and rocky terrain. Despite assurances from Ferraro that the project aimed to preserve local trees, the board was skeptical about the absence of plans and the potential impacts on public shade trees and stone walls. This skepticism was compounded by the lack of a formal bylaw, which limited the planning board’s jurisdiction unless such alterations were proposed.

The board’s discussion became contentious, with Ferraro expressing frustration over perceived obstacles from the planning board, accusing them of creating unnecessary barriers. The board maintained that without sufficient documentation, they could not approve the project. The debate underscored significant disagreement about the roles of the planning board and the select board, with planning board members emphasizing that their involvement was unnecessary unless specific conditions were met.

Amid the heated discussion, there was a call to address the ambiguity surrounding the Scenic Road designation. It was suggested that the planning board recommend a more comprehensive Scenic Road bylaw to prevent future confusion. This proposal aimed to clarify the approval process for utility projects and strengthen the town’s regulatory framework.

In other business, the board reviewed a proposal for a solar installation on Brickyard Road submitted by Valley Solar. The applicant, Mark Manino, was absent, and a consultant’s review identified multiple deficiencies in the application. Consequently, the board granted a continuance until November 20, 2024, to allow the applicant to address these issues. The motion for continuance passed with a 4-0 vote, with one member abstaining.

Additionally, the board addressed a land subdivision across from a member’s property. The land had been subdivided and sold without the planning board officially waiving its right of first refusal, a necessary step when land is removed from Chapter 61. Although the Conservation Commission found no wetland issues and signed off on the ANR request, the planning board was required to officially waive its right of first refusal. A motion to do so for the lot on Palom Meadow Road passed unanimously.

Finally, the board approved an invoice from consultant Richard Harris for zoning work, with approximately half of the cost covered by ARPA funds. A member raised the need for plans for future solar ground mount installations to ensure no associated wetland issues.