The primary topic of concern was the proposed expansion of the storage facility located on American Legion Highway. The applicant sought approval to construct three additional storage buildings, prompting extensive deliberation on how to manage the facility’s operations to protect the aquifer and mitigate any adverse effects on the surrounding community. Board members emphasized the importance of compliance with Section 5.2.4 of the Westport zoning bylaws, which mandates specific conditions for commercial and industrial activities within the underlying district.

The board ultimately decided to impose several conditions on the special permit. A consensus was reached to limit the operational hours of the facility from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. to prevent disturbances during nighttime hours. They also agreed to restrict the types of vehicles that could be stored on-site, prohibiting automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and other motor vehicles, while allowing only RVs and boats. This decision was driven by concerns about the potential environmental risks associated with storing vehicles containing hazardous materials, such as gasoline and oil, which could contaminate the aquifer. The board stipulated that stored vehicles must be registered and within a certain age limit, specifically less than 15 years old, to ensure they are in good condition and less likely to leak.

The conversation also addressed the facility’s stormwater management system. The applicant presented a plan to direct all runoff towards two infiltration ponds, which would manage stormwater and reduce post-development flow by 20% compared to pre-development conditions. The existing gravel driveway would be replaced with a proper access road, and the runoff would be treated through measures like grass swales and vegetated buffer strips to remove 90% of sediments and pollutants before reaching the infiltration ponds. This plan was designed to comply with Massachusetts stormwater regulations and the town’s zoning bylaws, with a particular focus on protecting the nearby wetlands and ensuring that the project area does not exceed the 15% impervious cover threshold.

Additionally, the board discussed the facility’s security measures and operational protocols. The applicant assured that the facility would employ a state-of-the-art camera system to monitor activities and that an attendant would be present during business hours to manage access and ensure compliance with storage policies. The applicant emphasized that hazardous materials, such as gasoline and pesticides, would not be permitted on-site, and strict prohibitions would be enforced through contractual obligations with storage customers. Concerns about unauthorized access and the adequacy of security measures were raised, leading to suggestions for further enhancements, such as gated access and a swipe card system for vehicle storage.

Another issue addressed during the meeting was the proposed development of a single-family home on a parcel of land near Sodom Road, which has complex zoning implications due to historical changes in state lines. The parcel, created by the shifting state line in 1862, presents unique challenges for zoning and access. The applicant argued that the historical state line change created a hardship that meets the criteria for a zoning variance, emphasizing the physical realities created by the state line and the need for adequate access for emergency services.

The board deliberated on the adequacy of the access road from Sodom Road, referencing concerns raised by the fire chief about the road’s suitability for fire trucks and ambulances. They also discussed the need for a legal easement for access and the potential impact on existing septic systems and wells. The board acknowledged the unique hardship resulting from the state line alteration and expressed a willingness to consider the variance request based on these factors, while emphasizing the importance of securing appropriate permits and adhering to Massachusetts zoning standards for septic design.

They also addressed the evolving legislative landscape that affects local regulations, highlighting the impact of recent state law changes on deed restrictions and accessory apartments.