A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the Vineyard Wind project, highlighting its complexities and potential impact on Westport’s environment and economy. The board expressed concerns over the lack of specific project details from Vineyard Wind, particularly regarding the proposed landing points in Westport and New London. These points raised fears about disruptions to the Westport River, with board members questioning the adequacy of planning, especially concerning soil samples and engineering requirements. The potential crossing of the Westport River by power lines sparked anxiety over fish migration and local fishing economies, as existing data focused more on oceanic than riverine environments.

The board acknowledged the need for further research. The conversation also touched on the potential influence of electromagnetic fields and heat generated by the cables on surrounding ecosystems. To address these challenges, the board plans to invite Vineyard Wind representatives to a meeting on January 16th.

The discussion also turned to recent legislation signed by Governor Healey, which streamlines the permitting process for offshore wind projects, potentially diminishing local control. Board members emphasized the necessity for local oversight and expertise to navigate these complexities, particularly given the risk of missed opportunities for local input in regulatory reviews. The board highlighted the importance of securing funding and technical support to address these challenges and ensure Westport’s interests are represented.

Turning to local issues, the board confronted significant safety concerns at the Drift Road intersection, which drew vocal input from residents. The proposed new roadway from a subdivision raised issues about achieving the necessary road radius and visibility for safe vehicle passage. Jonathan Silverstein, an attorney representing the applicant, explained the challenges in acquiring additional land from an uninterested abutting property owner, which limited their ability to meet the desired road design changes.

Despite assurances that the proposed design adhered to safety regulations, residents remained apprehensive. David Lima and David Dorski, among others, expressed concerns about the existing dangers at the intersection, citing past board decisions that prioritized safety. They urged the board to reconsider their stance, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive safety evaluation of the proposed road layout.

The board member acknowledged the residents’ concerns, noting that the current road configuration differed from the proposed subdivision. They discussed the elimination of a waiver request for a 25-foot leveling strip at the intersection, which would result in a safer, wider road meeting subdivision requirements. However, residents like Sonia Connolly and Jake McAn highlighted ongoing safety risks, sharing personal experiences of accidents and near misses on Drift Road.

The board agreed to continue the hearing until February 11th, allowing time for the applicant to address sightline concerns effectively. They requested additional context on the road’s layout and surrounding vegetation to better assess safety. The applicant’s representative committed to providing detailed site distance measurements and visuals to demonstrate that existing trees and stone walls did not obstruct drivers’ visibility.

In other matters, the board briefly touched upon administrative items, including the approval of an ANR plan for the Westport Land Conservation Trust. The plan involves two lots, one intended for conservation and another to be conveyed to an adjacent property owner. The board also discussed short-term rental and accessory dwelling unit bylaw amendments, with a public hearing scheduled for January 14th.