The proposal to convert a former bank into a Starbucks drive-thru on Main Street was a central focus, with representatives from Keb Partners presenting plans for the project. The plan includes retaining the existing building footprint, reconfiguring the parking lot, and adding an outdoor seating area. The drive-thru is designed to accommodate a queue of approximately 12 cars. Concerns about traffic congestion due to its proximity to a busy intersection were raised, particularly during peak school hours when student safety was a focal point of the discussion. A traffic study concluded that the new Starbucks would not increase overall roadway traffic but would cater to existing drive-by customers, predicting 97 trips during peak times and 47-50 during off-peak hours.

Board members and public attendees discussed the potential risks posed by students crossing at the shopping center’s entrance, often not using designated crosswalks. The possibility of capturing foot traffic from a nearby rail trail was also considered, though no specific enhancements were planned. Negotiations with Starbucks were ongoing, with permits in process. Comments from various town departments, including the Board of Health, outlined requirements for water usage and food service operations. The Water Department expressed support for the project, while the Conservation Commission noted no jurisdictional issues.

Public opinion was mixed. A retired resident raised concerns about morning congestion and safety for school buses, while another community member, Cindy King, voiced strong support, citing economic benefits and increased property values that would result from the Starbucks. With the board needing more time to address concerns, the discussion was continued to the next meeting on November 18th.

In contrast, the proposal for a UPS store on Main Street received approval from the board. Amy Shaw, the applicant, plans to renovate an existing commercial building in the downtown district. The board noted the proposal’s compliance with current zoning laws and the minimal traffic impact anticipated. A petition supporting the project, signed by 42 residents, emphasized benefits like increased convenience, economic growth, and alignment with the town’s vision for a vibrant downtown area. Concerns about parking were raised, as the plan initially included eight parking spaces instead of the required ten. However, the proximity of municipal parking was considered sufficient to meet needs.

Public support for the UPS store was strong, with community members advocating for local access to postal services previously only available in neighboring towns. The Historic District Commission confirmed the property’s inclusion in the historic district, requiring adherence to relevant guidelines. The board addressed logistical considerations, such as the impact of reopening an interior wall previously altered for another business, and unanimously approved the site plan review special permit.

Other topics at the meeting included ongoing stormwater management reviews and updates on other local development projects. The board approved a stormwater management plan for a property on West Meadow Road, with conditions for erosion control measures, and discussed the need for updated zoning maps and compliance with state guidelines. Additionally, the board reviewed correspondence about the potential sale of the Virginia Welch property on Bayberry Hill Road, ultimately deciding to take no action on the town’s right of first refusal.