The meeting opened with a detailed review of a notice of intent for BSE Group, representing Patricia Ellis, to construct a single-family dwelling, a garage, and an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on Bass River Terrace. The project, as represented by land surveyor Kieran Healey, involved some grading within the riverfront, necessitating mitigation plantings to compensate for tree removal. The site is currently wooded, and construction would lead to the removal of several trees. Healey emphasized efforts to minimize tree removal, particularly near the driveway, and agreed to replace dogwoods with oaks as suggested by a commission member. The conversation extended to logistical concerns about merging two parcels into one deed and the implications for future sales. Healey clarified that the parcels were currently unified under one deed, and any changes would require land court filings. The proposed driveway would feature a trench drain to manage water runoff, and it was confirmed that five trees were within the riverfront area. A Certificate of Compliance for Patricia Ellis was also discussed and passed unanimously, as the work was never completed.

Another agenda item was the ongoing project by Capecon Engineering for RJ Resorts, proposing a seasonal deck in a coastal beach velocity flood zone and Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) habitat. This matter, continued multiple times, awaited NHESP comments on compliance and bird monitoring requirements. The commission resolved to continue this matter to the next meeting to address outstanding concerns.

Further discussions focused on a project on Chilton Road for Joseph Dipio, involving the raising and replacement of a single-family dwelling in a storm-flood-prone area. The proposal aimed to retain as many trees as possible, with plans for significant mitigation planting. Concerns were raised about the location of a rinse station near the 35-foot buffer zone and the structural implications of a shed over the septic system. Suggestions were made to adjust the rinse station’s position to adhere to regulations.

The Commission debated the compliance of a property with a movable shed and raised patio, stressing the importance of adhering to local environmental regulations. The shed, lacking a concrete foundation, needed relocation due to health department regulations against structures in flood zones. Concerns about existing unlicensed revetments were acknowledged, with the applicant needing to verify its licensing history. The conversation emphasized reducing impervious surfaces and ensuring that all structures, including rinse stations, complied with the 35-foot buffer zone requirements.

Commission members proposed minimizing impacts within the 35-foot no-disturb zone. The proposal included removing a patio and retaining walls, introducing an elevated deck for stormwater penetration, and relocating structures outside the 35-foot buffer. Concerns about dry well placement due to site constraints led to the suggestion of a rain garden as an alternative for stormwater management.

The meeting also addressed a proposal for policy updates to improve landscape planting plans in wetland buffer areas. It was suggested that plans be prepared or reviewed by professionals specializing in landscape horticulture or wetlands, a requirement already in place in neighboring towns. This proposal aimed to ensure compliance with ecological standards, sparking a debate over potential costs for the public and the feasibility of allowing property owners to prepare their plans with professional oversight.

As-built plans were highlighted, with a proposal to rebrand them as “project completion plans” to clarify submission requirements. The commission stressed the importance of including specific markers and square footage of mitigation areas in plans to ensure compliance.