Westport Conservation Commission Approves Coastal and Flood Zone Projects
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Meeting Type:
Environmental Commission
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Meeting Date:
04/30/2024
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Recording Published:
05/02/2024
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Duration:
106 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Bristol County
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Towns:
Westport
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent assembly, the Westport Conservation Commission dealt with a series of applications concerning properties located within flood zones and coastal areas. The meeting’s most focus was the approval of various construction projects, including garage and septic system upgrades, dock construction, well installation, and restoration efforts, all within sensitive environmental areas.
A notable project discussed involved a proposal by Paul and Melanie Baker for the construction of a garage, septic system, driveway, landscaping, and deck on Richmond Pond Lane. This project fell within a flood zone and buffer zone. The proposed septic system upgrade to an advanced treatment system and the garage’s design featuring breakaway walls were to meet flood code requirements. Concerns were raised regarding the size and impact of the new driveway on water flow and potential changes to the existing garage, alongside comments from neighboring property owners. The commission contemplated a continuance for further review.
The commission also reviewed a request by Heritage Real Estate for the repair of a sewer disposal system on East Shore Road. The repair would involve a new bottomless sand filter design to meet Title 5 requirements. Despite the property’s location in a flood zone, the application had received approval from the Board of Health and was subsequently approved by the commission, subject to conservation approval.
Another project that garnered attention was the construction of a new dock in the Westport River, including a fixed pier, gangway, and float. While the Division of Marine Fisheries’ comments on the project were pending, the commission examined the project’s adherence to regulations concerning salt marsh land, coastal storm flowage, and shellfish habitat. The commission was asked to approve the dock based on the provided information.
There was a proposal regarding the installation of a new well and wellfield on River Road by Fox Rock Capital LLC. The project, located in the buffer zone and land Coastal storm Flowage, prompted discussions about potential impacts on shellfish and migratory fish. The commission awaited comments from the Marine Services director before deciding. Nevertheless, a motion was approved for a proposed gangway pending comments from the Marine Services director.
Discussions also included notices of intent for raising existing structures on Main Road and Main Road to prevent flooding damage, along with constructing new additions. Both properties had historical commission approval, with one property also located in the flood zone. The commission approved the additions with standard conditions, subject to Board of Health approval. The potential future installation of another septic system was discussed, necessitating an easement document for the shared septic system due to separate property ownership.
Additionally, the meeting covered a presentation by a representative from Weston and Sampson regarding the installation of a new well field to supplement the Westport Harbor Water Association’s existing wells. The proposal involved three new wells and potential permanent impacts in buffer zones and land subject to Coastal storm Flowage. Concerns about saltwater intrusion and sea level rise were acknowledged, and the commission approved the proposed public water supply after discussions.
The commission also addressed a notice of intent for a property on Atlantic Avenue, focusing on the restoration of a breached section of primary Coastal Dune. The plan included sand placement and dune grass planting, with a debate over the use of snow fencing as part of the approval. Moreover, the Mass Division of Marine Fisheries presented a notice of intent for eelgrass transplanting for habitat restoration, which led to discussions on the project’s location and potential impacts on recreational activities and parking.
Other discussed topics included the relocation of eelgrass to Town Beach, with one resident questioning the decision and another member advocating for its importance in resisting storm surges. The commission considered the restoration process and the challenges of understanding eelgrass disappearance in the area.
The meeting further tackled enforcement orders for properties on Drift Road and Charlotte White Road, where unauthorized activities had occurred within the commission’s jurisdiction. The commission issued a cease and desist letter for the latter and discussed necessary actions.
Jim Hartnett
Environmental Commission Officials:
Paul Joncas, Kevin Carter, Philip M. Weinberg, Jason Powell, Thomas Merchant, Burton Bryan, Jacob McGuigan
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Meeting Type:
Environmental Commission
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/30/2024
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Recording Published:
05/02/2024
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Duration:
106 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Bristol County
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Towns:
Westport
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