2021-11-08-STM#1-min-as Amended June 2022

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November 8,2021 Special Town Meeting#1(2021-1),cont. Mr. Hornig noted that in terms of structures in the Historic District, the rules of the Historic District Commission would continue to apply in full force, and that they had supported ground mounted systems over building mounted systems, so streamlining ground systems was in line with that. He noted that in the case of a roof mounted system on a historic property detracting from the historic character house, a ground mounted system might be the best approach. He stated that he would defer to Ms.Fenollosa for information outside of the District. 10:17 p.m. Ms. Fenollosa, Historical Commission Chair, stated that she would defer to Town Counsel as their definition of demolition referred to the tearing down of all or a portion of a building. The act of constructing on the grounds would not be covered by a demolition permit,and they would not be involved in with a building permit. Ms. McKenna followed up with the question regarding structures on small lots and asked whether there was a limit to the size of the facilities. Mr. Hornig stated that there were different categories but that they were required by State law to permit solar energy systems unless they could demonstrate how they would affect public health or welfare. He did not believe esthetic concerns would enter into that and they tried to limit visual impact. 10:18 P.M. David Kaufman,Pct.3,noted that he supported the Motion,but wanted to address the issues raised by Mr.Kostel's comments. He stated that cobalt was not a usual part of a typical solar array and that they were usually made from sand/silicone and the pictures of batteries was also not typical. He further stated that solar arrays could consist of glass or the that covered a building and could also generate electricity. 10:19 P.M. Nyles Barnert,Pct. 4, stated that a site plan review would need to be done. He asked whether there had been guidelines put in place for the staff to do so. Mr. Hornig noted that the Planning Board had adopted guidelines and posted them on the website. 10:19 P.M. Noah Michelson, Pct. 1, supported the Article and thanked the Planning Board. He noted that addressing climate change was an important issue faced by the Town,as well as the global community,and was glad that they had balanced modern pragmatism with action. 10:20 p.m. Delanot Bastien,Pct.3,stated that he was concerned about the possible toxic materials in the systems and wanted to be socially responsible regarding the possible impact to other communities around the world and asked if the safety of the systems could be discussed. Mr. Hornig stated that while modern solar systems contained some small amounts of material of concern, solar arrays tended to have 20-25 years of lifespan and then could still be used,but in a lesser capacity. 10:24 p.m. Mark Sandeen,Select Board Member,noted that often there was a 25-30 year warranty, but they could last longer—and they were primarily made of glass,aluminum, silicon and highly recyclable elements and could be reused. 10:25 p.m. Victoria Blier,Pct.9,asked a Point of Order regarding the conversation—and asked the Moderator whether the current discussion was within scope. The Moderator stated that she had allowed it and stood by that decision. 10:26 p.m. Anthony Galaitsis,Pct.5,asked why paragraph 4.2.3 regarding lot installation areas had been moved further down the hierarchy of the Zoning Bylaw.