2017-03-22 BOS Packet - Released

Browse Search

ARTICLE 34 AMEND GENERAL BYLAWS -BLASTING PROHIBIITION To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town code to prohibit the use of explosives in construction site work, with exceptions granted by the Board of Selectmen for municipal utility work and other municipal projects. (Inserted at the request of the Planning Board) DESCRIPTION The use of explosives to remove ledge and facilitate the significant change of grade in landscape construction significantly alters the characteristic New England topography of the Town and may impact subsurface geomorphology and drainage patterns. The use of explosives, commonly referred to as "blasting," creates vibrations that can impact the foundations and structural integrity of buildings as well as impact technical devices, including laboratory research. The soil and vegetative cover in blast sites is removed, impacting local ecological systems and surface drainage. The explosions and subsequent removal of blasted stone creates a factory-like conditions for abutters with the impact of dust, noise (including"sound warnings," or sirens and trucking), and vibrations of the explosions and heavy machinery. This article would prohibit blasting, except when specifically allowed by the Board of Selectmen. PROPOSED MOTION Insert the following new subparagraph § 43-1 in Chapter 43: Earth Fill and Removal of the Town's General Bylaws: §43-1 Prohibition of blasting; exceptions. The use of explosives or"blasting" during site excavation and construction is prohibited in the Town of Lexington, unless authorized by the Board of Selectman. Renumber subsequent paragraphs as required.