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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-04-01-NCDTM-min.docx Turning Mill NCD Meeting Minutes 4/1/2025 Attending Commissioners: Diane Pursley, Marilyn Fenollosa, Tina McBride, Eric Peterson, Michael Schanbacher Absent: Glenn Bartolini (Continued) Hearing for 24 Turning Mill Road addition. Applicant: Murali Pathivada Also present: Priya Pathivada, Zoe (Civil Engineer), Akhiris Newlands (Architect) Meeting called to order at 7pm. Summary: The Turning Mill Neighborhood Conservation District Commission (continued) hearing focused on the proposed renovation design for 24 Turning Mill Road, with discussions on the planned exterior materials, re-designed roof and landscaping plan. The landscaping plan included delineating the existing trees and shrubs and the additional trees and shrubs that are required by the Conservation Commission and will provide privacy screening for the applicant and their neighbors. The TMNCD Commission unanimously approved the project with the modifications presented in the new plans dated 4/1/2025. The Commission did not approve the minutes from the 3/25 meeting. Detailed Notes: Akhiris presented updated architectural plans for the project, focusing on the front addition and roof design. The proposed changes included a reduced height, simplified roof design, and the use of limestone siding and IP wood cladding. Akhiris also provided a comparison of the previously presented facade and the updated one, as well as a detailed plan with updated dimensions. The changes aimed to harmonize the entire facade and simplify the roof design for easier construction. The roofing material will be metal. Zoe presented the proposed landscaping plan, which includes additional trees to provide privacy and maintain the neighborhood's aesthetic. The plan includes a mix of 5 foot evergreen trees and other robust shrubs, with a focus on native and preferred wetland plants. The Commissioners had the following feedback (in summary): Tina expressed concern about the uniformity of the landscaping, suggesting a staggered planting approach to create a more natural appearance. Zoe confirmed that the existing vegetation would prevent uniformity and that the plan was approved by the Conservation Commission. Tina also inquired about the lack of landscaping on the south side, to which Zoe explained that the existing vegetation would be maintained and that the focus was on the wetlands area Tina expressed her support for the garage doors, windows, and simplified roof, while appreciating the stone siding. She also mentioned her liking for the flat overhang over the front door. Marilyn asked about the white area in the landscape plan, which Zoe explained as untouched wetland area with trees, shrubs, and other vegetation. Zoe clarified that the new plantings were required by the town of Lexington's bylaws for wetland protection and mitigation. Michael and Eric supported the design changes made to the house, including the roof line, garage door, and landscaping. All agreed that the changes were improvements and appreciated the efforts to maintain the existing elements. Motion: The Commission approve the architectural design and landscaping plan as presented on 3/25/2025 and updated on 4/1/2025. Vote: Yes – Eric, Tina, Diane, Michael and Marilyn. No – None. The Commission unanimously approved the project with modifications presented on April 1st. Murali expresses gratitude for the Commission’s help, The meeting concluded without approving the previous meeting's minutes due to procedural concerns. Vote to Adjourn: Yes – Eric, Tina, Diane, Michael and Marilyn. No – None. Commission adjourned at 7:51pm Next steps: 1. Diane will complete the Certificate of Compatibility and submit to the Building Department so the process to issue the building permits can move forward. 2. Zoe to stagger the placement of proposed trees to create a more natural appearance and consider incorporating rhododendrons into the landscaping plan for additional screening. 3. Zoe to contact Karen Mullins regarding the possibility of staggering wetland shrubs. 4. Akhiris to consider modifying the entrance design to potentially include a flat overhang. 5. Murali to contact David regarding the metal roof. 6. Diane will look to schedule a quick meeting in a few weeks to approve the two sets of minutes from this hearing.