2017-10-30-CONCOM-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Questions and comments from the Commission: The commission explained that in a complex situation like this, they usually ask for a peer reviewer to look at the wetlands. The commission explained how their by-law works regarding wetland delineation. They told the applicant that he will need to review it under their standards. The commission asked if there were any vernal pools on the property. Mr. DeCoulas said that there were no vernal pools. Questions and comments from the audience: Merril Jane Epstein, 42 Webb Street, explained that the neighborhood has been very concerned about this property since there was extensive unpermitted cutting in the 1990s. She stated that the owner reached a settlement with the town but it was never carried out. Melissa Lee, 8 Cornerstone Way, explained that the area behind her house is always wet and there is flooding. Ping Chen, 12 Dunham Street, stated that he has problems with flooding and shares concerns about the flooding increasing in the neighborhood. Addie May, Dunham Street, expressed similar concerns about flooding. Andy Freihling, TMM Precint 5, asked if the area has been evaluated for any potential vernal pools. He also expressed concern that storms have been getting more frequent and more intense in recent years. He is concerned what affect climate change will have on the wetlands as well as any potential development. Travis Lee, 8 Cornerstone Way, asked how this delineation varies from delineations done in the past. Mr. Hamilton stated that the commission only approves wetlands lines for three years. Blair Ruocco, 54 Webb Street, expressed concern over the accuracy of the wetlands delineation. Simon She, 34 Webb Street, asked how the wetlands vary between winter and summer months. The commission explained that wetlands take a great deal of the time to change. The commission looks at soil samples which do not change with the seasons. Don Sherman, 74 Webb Street, asked if wetlands off the property have been delineated. Ms. Mullins stated that the applicant has gotten permission from the town to delineate wetlands on the Town Conservation Land. The commission stated that they walked back to a pond on the Conservation land but it was well over 100ft. from the property. Rick Corazzini, 19 Utica Street, stated that the commission should go to the property in the Spring when it is really wet out there. Motion to continue the hearing to 11/13/2017 at the applicant's request made by Mr. Wolk and seconded by Mr. Beuttell. Vote: 7-0 in favor.