Westport Conservation Commission Approves Coastal and Environmental Projects

The most recent meeting of the Westport Conservation Commission resulted in the approval of several projects aimed at coastal preservation, construction within conservation areas, and beach maintenance.

A discussion centered on the proposal for beach maintenance, a project which the Commission ultimately approved. The approved plan involves using materials compatible with the existing beach conditions for the maintenance of a trailer lot located on the ocean side. The materials must be sampled and presented to the Commission before their placement on the beach, and all work is required to be no closer than 10 feet from the mean high water mark. This decision aligns with the Commission’s environmental responsibilities.

Additionally, the Commission granted extensions for beach maintenance to Janet Baker and Alison McIsaac for their respective properties. The extensions are likely to allow for the continuation of responsible beach upkeep, adhering to the standards set forth by the Commission. Moreover, a certificate of compliance was issued to Juan Riviera for a completed construction project, signaling that the project met the environmental guidelines and regulations.

One of the most discussions was about the notice of intent for a property on D Main Road, which centered on the reconstruction of a stone wall and the raising of a solid fill pier in the riverfront area. The engineering firm representing the property underlined minimal environmental impacts and outlined measures to prevent overwash of concrete into the water during the reconstruction. The proposal, which had received favorable comments from the Department of Marine Fisheries, was within the parameters of the waterways licensing for the property. The commission debated the necessity of raising the licensed wall by a foot, eventually resolving concerns by discussing the implementation of precautions such as the use of fabric behind the wall and backfilling with stone to avoid slumping.

The commission also approved the construction of an addition, garage, and driveway extension on Horseneck Road. The property is located within the buffer zone of resource areas, and the plan was passed with standard conditions.

In another case concerning coastal structures, the Commission evaluated and approved a project involving the reconstruction of a licensed seawall, jetty, and small ramp, complemented by the addition of erosion controls and native landscaping. The project was met with concerns about flooding and the materials used for the wall. However, after discussion, the motion to approve the project was unanimously passed.

Similarly, the replacement of a licensed rock wall was recommended for approval with standard conditions.

A project for the rehabilitation of a structure, patio, and landscaping in the riverfront area also received approval. The plan included extensive plantings and deck reconstruction, with a focus on minimal alteration to the degraded area of the house. The Commission’s dialogue touched on the lack of stormwater mitigation options but concluded with the decision to approve the project, which complied with performance standards.

The Commission addressed a collapsed structure on Main Road, approving the issuance of a letter to the property owner to address the issue. Furthermore, two requests for enforcement action were discussed: one concerning the unpermitted removal of vegetation on Sandpiper Drive, and another regarding the after-the-fact placement of sand on Cadman’s Neck. These discussions highlight the Commission’s role in enforcing environmental regulations and addressing non-compliance.

The meeting also covered administrative matters, such as the approval of bills for office supplies and media advertising. The approval of meeting minutes was postponed to ensure all relevant members were present.

Lastly, the Commission discussed an interim beach management policy and submitted an application for a designated Beach management plan. These actions illustrate steps taken by the Commission to establish comprehensive guidelines for managing the town’s beaches sustainably.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Administrator:
Jim Hartnett
Environmental Commission Officials:
Paul Joncas, Kevin Carter, Philip M. Weinberg, Jason Powell, Thomas Merchant, Burton Bryan, Jacob McGuigan

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