HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-02-24-ConCom-min.pdf
Meeting broadcasted by LexMedia
PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES
Conservation Commission
___________________________________________________________________________
AGENDA Tuesday, February 24th, 2026, 6:30 p.m.
This Conservation Commission meeting was held remotely via Zoom, an online meeting
platform. Public participation via calling in or using a computer was encouraged.
Commissioners Present: Kevin Beuttell, Duke Bitsko, Alexandra Dohan, Philip Hamilton, Ruth
Ladd (Chair), Jason Hnatko, and Thomas Whelan;
Associate Commissioner present: Tom Olivier
Staff Present: Karen Mullins, Conservation Director, and Megan Guardado (Downer),
Department Assistant;
6:30 PM New Business/Pending Matters
Approve Minutes: 1/27/2026 and 2/10/2026
On a motion by Mr. Hamilton and seconded by Mr. Beuttell, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll
call vote to approve the 1/27/2026 minutes.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
On a motion by Ms. Dohan and seconded by Mr. Whelan, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll call
vote to approve the 2/10/2026 minutes.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Request for Certificate of Compliance: 8 Blueberry Ln, DEP #201-1315, OpenGov CNOI-24-7,
COC-26-2, Partial
Mr. Richard Kirby, LEC Environmental, stated that the project included the installation of
restoration and enhancement plantings onsite. Mr. Kirby stated that driveway impervious area
was reduced by sixty-five square feet and that the Buffer Zone restoration was completed in
August 2025. LEC Environmental has been contracted for the monitoring of the restoration
plantings through 2028.
Ms. Ladd asked where the current edge of lawn is on the as-built plan and if the edge of lawn
shown is current since the trees listed on the as-built have been removed already. Mr. Kirby
noted that the edge of lawn shown on the submitted as-built is not current. Ms. Ladd also noted
that grading is not accurately marked on the as-built. Ms. Ladd stated that the house built does
not match the originally approved footprint, was built closer to the wetlands than was approved,
and that this may not have been built in compliance with the Order of Conditions.
Mr. Hamilton stated that the Commission cannot issue a Certificate of Compliance at this time.
Mr. Ender Saricay, DND Homes, stated that the foundation location was built as per the
approved plans and that roof overhang is causing the calculations in the as-built to be closer than
what was approved by the Commission. Ms. Ladd stated that the Commission’s approval always
includes the overhang. Mr. Kirby stated the approved plan may not have included the width of
the gutter.
Ms. Mullins presented an overlay plan showing the approved plan compared to the as-built
conditions. Ms. Ladd stated an Amended to the Order of Conditions may be needed. Mr. Whelan
agreed that an Amended Order of Conditions with a revised as-built plan would be needed to
approve the changes to the approved plan.
Request for Certificate of Compliance: 560 Concord Ave, DEP #201-1344, OpenGov CNOI-24-
38, COC-26-3, Partial
Ms. Nicole Ferrara, LEC Environmental, presented and stated that the approved project consisted
of the construction of an addition and a deck in the rear of the house. Ms. Ferrara stated there
were changes to plan including the deck’s distance to the wetlands has decreased to 50 feet and
was approved at 51.2 feet and that the roof area directed into the subsurface infiltration system
was increased. Ms. Ferrara also stated that permeable pavers were installed under the deck
instead of stone and that the engineer, Mike Novak, will be reporting in the next hearing on his
findings of the permeability of these pavers. A planting plan memo was submitted to the record
as well and the required plantings have been installed onsite.
Ms. Ladd stated that 82 shrubs were approved to be planted and the quantity noted to have been
planted was 72. Ms. Ferrara stated she will review the total of the plantings and report back to
the Commission. Ms. Ladd also noted that the report noted the woody plants were stressed and
asked if LEC followed up on this. Ms. Ferrara noted that in their follow-up they discovered some
of the lawn was not removed within the restoration area and this was since removed, seeded, and
verified, and that overall, the restoration area appeared healthy and that there was some
transplant stress. Ms. Ladd stated that there are still three years left of monitoring for
survivability.
Mr. Hnatko stated that the Commission should require an Amendment to the Order of Conditions
as there have been deviations to the plan building closer to the Resource Area. Mr. Beuttell and
Ms. Dohan agreed with Mr. Hnatko that an Amended Order is appropriate due to the changes to
the approved plan. Ms. Ferrara stated that they will apply for an Amendment to the Order of
Conditions.
Request for Certificate of Compliance: 24 Hamblen St, DEP #201-1241, OpenGov CNOI-21-39,
COC-23-13
Mr. Kirby stated that the project included a small restoration area in the rear of the property and
the plantings are surviving. Ms. Ladd stated the monitoring report did not document the total
number of plantings and did not include information for all plantings and asked for further
details in the monitoring report. Mr. Kirby stated they will follow up with further details in the
monitoring report and schedule a site inspection if necessary.
Request for Certificate of Compliance: 18 Winthrop Rd, DEP #201-1200, OpenGov CNOI-20-
30, COC-24-24
Ms. Ladd stated that this item will be postponed to a future meeting for follow-up.
7:00 PM New Public Meetings/Hearings
Request for Determination of Applicability: 106 Kendall Road
OpenGov Permit# CDOA-26-1
Applicant/Property Owner: Joseph Barbato, Feinmann
Project: Construction of an addition to the existing single-family dwelling within the 200-foot
Riverfront Area.
Documentation Submitted:
WPA Form 1 – Request for Determination of Applicability; Locus: 106 Kendall Rd,
Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Pam Baker; Prepared by: Joseph Barbato, Feinmann Inc.;
Date: 1/30/2026
Sketched Plot Plan; Prepared for: Pamela Baker; Prepared by: The Jillson Company, Inc.;
Date: 1/30/2026
Baker Residence Design Plan: Sheet DSGN 1.01; Locus: 106 Kendall Rd, Lexington,
MA; Prepared for: Pam Baker; Prepared by: Feinmann; Date: 12/31/2025
Mr. Joseph Barbato, Feinmann, presented the project plans and stated that the proposed project
includes a small addition to be built on helical piers within the 200-foot Riparian Zone. Mr.
Beuttell asked what materials will be used for this addition and what is the size of the landing.
Mr. Barbato stated that the landing is proposed to be five feet wide and three feet deep with a
three-foot set of stairs, and the framing will be a fir frame and composite decking material. Mr.
Beuttell asked if procedurally this project can be reviewed within a Request for Determination of
Applicability or if a Notice of Intent would be necessary as it is within the 200-foot Riverfront
Area. Ms. Mullins stated that due to the size of the addition, this is consistent with previous
approvals from the Commission to be approved through a Request for Determination of
Applicability.
On a motion by Mr. Beuttell and seconded by Mr. Hamilton, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll
call vote to issue a Negative Determination with conditions.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Notice of Intent: 251 Waltham Street (Lexington High School)
OpenGov Permit# CNOI-26-4, DEP #201-1387
Applicant/Property Owner: Michael Cronin, Town of Lexington School Building Committee
Project: Demolition of the existing high school building, athletic fields and parking lot,
construction of a new school building, athletic fields, parking lot, landscaping, and associated
site appurtenances, within the 100-foot buffer zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands, Isolated
Land Subject to Flooding and Isolated Vegetated Wetlands.
Documentation Submitted:
Notice of Intent; Locus: Lexington High School, 251 Waltham St, Lexington, MA;
Prepared by: SMMA; Prepared for: Town of Lexington School Building Committee;
Date: 2/3/2026
WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent; Locus: Lexington High School, 251 Waltham St,
Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Michael Cronin, Town of Lexington School Building
Committee; Prepared by: Erin Prestileo, SMMA; Date: 2/13/2026
Notice of Intent Supplemental Lexington File #CNOI-26-4 DEP File #201-1387; To:
Lexington Conservation Commission; From: SMMA, BSC; Date: 2/13/2026
NOI Submission Plan Set; Locus: Lexington High School, 251 Waltham St, Lexington,
MA; Prepared for: Town of Lexington Public Schools; Prepared by: SMMA; Date:
2/3/2026
Stormwater Report; Locus: Lexington High School, 251 Waltham St, Lexington, MA;
Prepared for: Town of Lexington; Prepared by: SMMA; Date: 2/3/2026
Operation and Maintenance Plan; Locus: Lexington High School, 251 Waltham St,
Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Town of Lexington; Prepared by: SMMA; Date: 2/3/2026
Site and Subsurface Exploration Location Plan; Locus: Lexington High School, 251
Waltham St, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Town of Lexington; Prepared by: Haley
Aldrich; Date: November 2025
Order of Resource Area Delineation; Locus: 251 Waltham St, Lexington, MA; Prepared
for: Michael Cronin, Town of Lexington School Building Committee; Issued by:
Lexington Conservation Commission; Date: 10/25/2024
ANRAD Submission Plans; Locus: 251 Waltham St, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Town
of Lexington Public Schools; Prepared by: SMMA; Date: 7/30/2024; Revised: 9/9/2024
Site Photos: Lexington High School – Wetland Resource Areas; Locus: 251 Waltham St,
Lexington, MA; Prepared by: BSC Group; Not Dated
Ms. Erin Prestileo, Civil Engineer from SMMA, presented and stated that several project team
members are present for this hearing including; Mr. John Albright, project manager from Dore &
Whittier; Mr. Michael Cronin, Town of Lexington Director of Public Facilities; Mr. Mark
Barrett, project manager for DPF; Mr. Peter Rebuck, SMMA; Diana Walden, BSC Group; and
Paul Martin, BSC Group.
Ms. Prestileo presented an image of the existing site conditions and presented the Wetland
Resources onsite, as were approved in an Order of Resource Area Delineation issued in 2024.
She noted that the Vine Brook Culvert is outside of the limit of work. The New England District
of the US Army Corps of Engineers also issued an approved jurisdictional determination
November 25, 2025, noting that all wetlands onsite are not waters of the US. There are currently
450 parking spaces onsite, and the proposed project includes 500 parking spaces for school use.
Ms. Prestileo stated that 40 out of the 50 acres onsite is included in the limit of work and that the
proposal will result in a reduction of approximately three acres of impervious area.
Ms. Walden stated that the Bordering Vegetated Wetland impacts will include 4,905 square feet
of permanent impact to Wetland 7 and 9,810 square feet of mitigation is proposed to meet the
local code 2:1 required mitigation. Ms. Walden also stated that two areas on the parcel were
determined through a professional engineering flood study to flood during the 100-year storm or
1% annual change storm and this is based on backflow of a culverted stream from the catch
basins onsite and that compensatory flood storage, elevation by elevation, is proposed. The
Isolated Land Subject to Flooding onsite will be fully filled in and is a permanent loss of 34,449
square feet to be mitigated through the stormwater system and Best Management Practices
(BMPs). Ms. Walden also stated that an existing impervious driveway between the Wetlands 2
and 3 block and Wetland 4 will be removed and replaced with a boardwalk and a hydrologic
connection underneath, and the section view of this connection was presented. A planting plan
has been proposed for the replication areas onsite.
Ms. Prestileo stated that the project is located within the updated Zone A FEMA flood zone. Ms.
Prestileo stated that a qualified professional engineer has studied the watershed and has found
limited areas that flood, as noted by Ms. Walden as well.
Ms. Walden stated that, within the supplemental full study, information is provided to support
that the Bordering Land Subject to Flooding onsite is the limited area adjacent to the catch
basins. Mr. Martin stated that the base flood elevation was not determined through the FEMA
flood study and instead was determined through the project teams flood study done onsite and
submitted in detail in supplemental materials submitted to the record.
Mr. Rebuck stated that improvements to the stormwater system are proposed, including a system
that will connect to the existing Vine Brook culvert and all onsite stormwater will be treated
before it reaches the culvert, and various BMPs. Mr. Rebuck presented the various BMPs
proposed including tree box filters, porous pavement, a concrete detention system, three bio-
retention areas, and a perforated pipe infiltration system. Mr. Rebuck stated that total amount of
porous pavement onsite would decrease through the proposed plan.
Ms. Ladd stated that peer review will be required for the stormwater, the floodplain study, and
the hydrology for some of the mitigation areas. The Commission asked questions and provided
comments prior to members of the public speaking.
Questions and Comments from the Commission:
- Ms. Dohan stated satisfaction with the proposed work in Wetlands 2, 3, and 4 areas to
reconnect these wetlands. Ms. Dohan also stated that Wetland 7 appears to be surrounded
by pavement in the proposed plans and noted that the habitat value will be decreased with
this as the area is currently surrounded by grass.
- Ms. Ladd asked if there are cross sections for all of the wetland replication areas. She
expressed concern about the hydrology and asked for this to be addressed in the peer
review.
- Mr. Beuttell asked for further information on the alternatives analysis and said that one of
the alternatives seemed to have a lesser extent of direct wetland impact and that specifics
were not given in the alternatives analysis provided, specifically regarding mitigating
circumstances. Mr. Beuttell asked if the responses could be clarified within the record.
- Mr. Hamilton asked if the team could show where the porous pavement proposed is
located and what the plan for maintenance of the porous pavement is.
- Mr. Bitsko commended the team for their clear presentation. Mr. Bitsko then asked if
pretreatment was provided for the bio-retention areas. He also stated that he is unaware of
tree box filters being used in other schools in town and that there are limited benefits in
his experience. Mr. Bitsko stated he would like to see success in the vegetation in the tree
box.
- Mr. Bitsko also asked if any hard copies of the plans can be provided for the Commission
to review in greater detail.
- Mr. Whelan asked what the schedule is for responding to the peer review comments.
- Ms. Ladd asked, for the compensatory flood mitigation, one area appears to be proposed
next to the wetlands and asked for clarity on the location. Ms. Ladd asked if the flood
storage can be integrated as part of the wetland rather than separate as is proposed.
Responses from Applicant’s Team:
- Ms. Walden stated that Wetland 7 does not have the wildlife features Ms. Dohan is
concerned about and the existing wildlife habitat is confined to amphibians and birds
flying in and out. A planting plan including shrubs, berry producers, and small trees is
proposed to improve the structure of this wetland. Wetland 7 will be connected
hydrologically via the stormwater drainage connection to Wetland 8 and there will be no
direct culvert for wildlife passage.
- There is at least one cross section provided that is conceptual.
- Ms. Prestileo stated that the alternative plan that would have a less extensive impact to
the wetlands would have a longer construction duration, increased cost, and would impact
the students learning time which would be shifted to online learning during the
construction.
- Mr. Rebuck presented the plan with all proposed porous pavement. Mr. Cronin stated that
maintenance is done annually on all sites in Town with porous pavement and includes a
vac truck that vacs up all sediment. Mr. Cronin stated that only salt is used for winter
condition treatments and that the truck can maintain the sidewalks as well. This project
would be added to the Town’s sites to be maintained annually.
- Mr. Rebuck stated that the pretreatment for the bio-retention areas is crushed stone
diaphragms. Mr. Rebuck also stated that tree box filters provide phosphorous removal
that water quality units do not provide. There are at least five manufacturers within the
Northeast and the media used is an engineered sand mix. Mr. Rebuck stated that the
vegetation is small as large trees and large shrubs are not able to be planted in these areas
and that the media will provide all treatment and the vegetation will not be providing the
treatment for this area. Maintenance for tree box filters is similar to that of a catch basin
and the media lasts forever. Ms. Prestileo noted that Tree Box Filters have previously
been used on Town property and maintained by Town staff.
- Ms. Prestileo stated that she will provide as many hard copies as necessary to the
Commission.
- Ms. Prestileo stated that the team cannot currently speak to the schedule for peer
reviewing.
- Ms. Prestileo stated that it was determined to be easier to have the flood storage stand
alone to be similar to what exists today. They are proposing the same volume at the same
elevation to be connected in the same manner to the Vine Brook Culvert. Ms. Prestileo
also stated that they will update the renderings to address Ms. Ladd’s comments.
Ms. Katrina Menzigian, 36 Muzzey Street, stated that the maps appear to include the wetland
directly across from Wetland 4 and runs alongside her property and asked if there would be any
impact to this wetland and to clarify if Park Drive will remain a street. Ms. Prestileo stated Park
Drive will be reconstructed into a 24-foot-wide roadway with sidewalks. Ms. Prestileo also
stated that the area in question is not a wetland and is an area with shallow groundwater. Mr.
Rebuck stated that the road is being shifted slightly north and a swale will be created up to
roughly five or six feet past the street as well. Underground infrastructure and drainage will be
included in this area. Ms. Menzigian asked if the road would be moved closer to the houses on
Muzzey Street and if the street would remain a two-way street. Mr. Rebuck stated that portions
of the roadway will be shifted north. Park Drive will remain a two-way street.
Mr. Jim Williams, 8 Stratham Road, stated he has provided a letter to the Commission and that
the law requires Burlington’s water supply be addressed for this project. Mr. Williams asked if it
can be required to address the water being pumped into Burlington through the peer review. Mr.
Williams also stated that the alternative analysis provided by the applicant is insufficient under
the regulations and asked if the applicant plans to amend the alternatives analysis for the
Conservation Commission.
Ms. Vida Baterina Hom, 175 Grove Street, stated that there are more suitable alternative
locations for the construction of the High School, including building the school in the dry area of
the existing site. Ms. Baterina Hom expressed she does not support the project plan as is and
expressed concern for the wetlands onsite being harmed and the nearby homes being flooded.
She also expressed concerns for an increase in property taxes in town due to the flood insurance
cost onsite.
Ms. Lisa Newton, 15 Ledgelawn Avenue, stated that the circular horseshoe driveway as noted by
Ms. Dohan would destroy any value to the wetland it surrounds and this should not be approved
as is. Ms. Newton stated that approval of this would set precedent for future project approvals for
residents of Lexington.
Ms. Leticia Hom, 175 Grove St, stated that the building proposal is outdated. Ms. Hom also
stated that the existing campus is twice the size of the proposal and further demand will be
created by the increasing number of MBTA multi-family residential dwellings being built in
Town. Ms. Hom also stated that there are better suited alternative locations for the High School
and the plan as is has insufficient mitigation measures proposed.
Ms. Ladd noted that the Commission is only able to address how the project impacts the resource
areas onsite and the Commission cannot dictate concerns such as the size of the building.
Ms. Prestileo stated that driveway areas surrounding Wetlands 2 and 3 are proposed to be
removed to mitigate for some of the impact to Wetland 7. Ms. Prestileo has stated that the State
has not provided any unsatisfactory comments with the project as proposed regarding the
alternatives provided. Ms. Prestileo also noted that the size of the building is not required to be
addressed by the Conservation Commission. Ms. Prestileo also stated that the site is no longer
part of Burlington’s Wellhead Protection Zone 2.
Mr. Martin stated that the Vine Brook is not viewed as a viable drinking water resource supply
due to contamination and pollutants. Ms. Walden also noted that removing three acres of
impervious surface will benefit and recharge the water supply.
Ms. Ladd stated that the improvements of Wetlands 1, 2, 3, and 4 will outweigh the loss of
Wetland 7 as this wetland is functioning minimally.
Ms. Ladd stated that the peer review will need to include review of the stormwater management,
the floodplain study, and the adequacy of the hydrology for Wetlands 7 and 8. Mr. Beuttell stated
that cross section details should be provided for all wetlands onsite. Mr. Beuttell stated he agrees
with Ms. Ladd’s scope of the peer review. Mr. Whelan stated that one peer review for all scopes
of the review needed would be most beneficial. Ms. Ladd asked if the peer review will be for
both the Act and the bylaw regulations and standards. Ms. Mullins noted that drainage and
stormwater management along with the flood study and hydrology for Wetlands 7 and 8 appear
to be the Commission’s main concerns to be addressed by the peer review.
Mr. Cronin asked if the requested peer reviews are typical for projects and if there is a timeline
for this. Ms. Ladd stated that peer reviews are typical for larger projects such as this to ensure all
technical aspects of the project are properly reviewed that are beyond the Commission’s
expertise.
On a motion by Mr. Hamilton and seconded by Mr. Whelan the Commission voted 7-0 by roll
call vote to engage a peer reviewer under chapter 44. 53 (g) to review the stormwater
management, flood study, and mitigation hydrology.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
On a motion by Mr. Beuttell and seconded by Ms. Dohan the Commission voted 7-0 by roll call
vote to continue the hearing to 3/10/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Notice of Intent: 118 Kendall Road
OpenGov Permit# CNOI-26-2, DEP #201-1388
Applicant/Property Owner: Thamara Martins, CNT Property Improvements Corp.
Project: Construction of two rear additions, a rear balcony, a patio, and front porch to a single-
family dwelling, and associated site appurtenances, within the 200-foot Riverfront Area,
Bordering Land Subject to Flooding, the 100-foot buffer zone from Inland Bank and Bordering
Vegetated Wetlands and the 100-foot buffer zone from Bordering Land Subject to Flooding
(Local Code).
Documentation Submitted:
Notice of Intent; Locus: 118 Kendall Rd, Lexington, MA; Prepared by: Debbie
Anderson, PWS, Wetland Scientist; Prepared for: Lexington Conservation Commission;
Date: 1/20/2026; Revised: 2/3/2026
WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent; Locus: 118 Kendall Rd, Lexington, MA; Prepared for:
Thamara Martins, CNT Property Improvements Corp.; Prepared by: Debbie Anderson,
PWS; Date: 1/20/2026
Proposed Site Plan Set; Locus: 118 Kendall Rd, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: CNT
Property Improvement Corp.; Prepared by: Boston Civil; Signed and Stamped by: Kevin
A. Quetti, Civil PE No. 55455; Date: 1/20/2026; Revised: 1/26/2026
Plot Plan; Locus: 118 Kendall Rd, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Thamara Martins;
Prepared by: Edward J. Farrell, PLS; Date: 1/28/2026
Stormwater Narrative; Locus: 118 Kendall Rd, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: John
Livsey, PE, Town of Lexington Engineer; Prepared by: Boston Civil; Signed and
Stamped by: Kevin Quetti, Civil PE No. 55455; Date: 1/20/2026; Revised: 2/3/2026
Test Pit Report; Locus: 118 Kendall Rd, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: John Livsey, PE
Town Engineer; Prepared by: Liam Cullinane, PE, Boston Civil; Date: 1/12/2026
Site Photos; Locus: 118 Kendall Road, Lexington, MA; Not Dated
Ms. Debbie Anderson, Wetlands Consultant, presented and Mr. Adam Cislo, Boston Civil, was
also present. Ms. Anderson stated that the project includes the construction of two additions, a
balcony, a pervious patio in the rear, and a front porch within the 100-foot buffer zone to
Bordering Vegetated Wetlands. Ms. Anderson also stated that a 2:1 mitigation area is proposed
along the bank of the existing stream onsite. The proposed plantings include 40 shrubs to be
planted in native clusters. Ms. Anderson noted that stormwater infiltration is proposed at the rear
of the dwelling.
Ms. Ladd asked about the existing perimeter fence on the rear of the lot. Ms. Anderson noted that
the existing perimeter fence is proposed to be removed and replaced. Ms. Mullins noted that the
plan presented was submitted to the record past the Commission’s supplemental submittal
deadline. Ms. Anderson stated that the updated plan was provided to address comments from the
Commission during their site visit. Ms. Ladd noted that with the updated plans the Commission
will have to ask for a continuance to allow for the public to review the new plans prior to the
closing of the hearing.
Ms. Ladd asked for clarity on how the floodplain was calculated. Mr. Cislo stated that the
floodplain was determined using MassMapper and FEMA data referenced on top of the survey
provided. Ms. Mullins stated that it appears the interpolation method was used to determine the
elevation. Mr. Cislo stated that the counters used are from the survey done onsite and the
boundary used for the floodplain is from MassMapper. Ms. Mullins stated that there is not a
deviation between the overlay on the survey, meaning the interpolation method is able to be used
for this site.
Ms. Ladd stated that Feno bounds should be added to the plan as well. Ms. Mullins asked the
Commission to clarify where they would like the bounds to be installed. Ms. Ladd stated that the
edge of vegetation should be marked on the site plan. Mr. Beuttell asked to clarify if the
mitigation area is entirely lawn in its current state. Ms. Ladd stated that the proposed mitigation
area is existing lawn area. Mr. Beuttell also stated that the fence should be built between the
manicured lawn area and the naturalized area and that this should be clearly shown on an
updated plan. Mr. Bitsko asked for the 25-foot no-disturb area to be marked on the western
Bordering Vegetated Wetland.
Ms. Mullins stated that a final engineering report has not been provided yet.
On a motion by Mr. Beuttell and seconded by Ms. Dohan the Commission voted 7-0 by roll call
vote to continue the hearing to 3/10/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Notice of Intent: 131 Hartwell Avenue
OpenGov Permit# CNOI-26-3, DEP #201-1386
Applicant/Property Owner: JLB Realty LLC
Project: Demolition of the existing building onsite, construction of a multi-family residential
building and parking garage, landscaping, and associated site appurtenances, with portions of the
project within the 100-foot buffer zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands.
Documentation Submitted:
Notice of Intent Application: Residential Development; Locus: 131 Hartwell Ave,
Lexington, MA; Prepared by: VHB; Prepared for: JLB Realty LLC; Date: January 2026
WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent; Locus: 131 Hartwell Ave, Lexington, MA; Prepared for:
JLB Realty LLC; Prepared by: Scott Morrison, Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB);
Date: 1/20/2026
Hartwell Ave Residences Plan Set; Locus: 131 Hartwell Ave, Lexington, MA; Prepared
for: JLB Realty LLC; Prepared by: Architect Embarc; Signed and Stamped by: Nicholas
J. Skoly, Civil PE No. 52677; Date: 1/23/2026
Stormwater Management Report; Locus: 131 Hartwell Ave, Lexington, MA; Prepared
for: JLB Realty LLC; Prepared by: VHB; Date: January 2026
Stormwater Management System Operations and Maintenance Manual; Locus: 131
Hartwell Ave, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: JLB Partners; Prepared by: VHB, Inc.;
Date: January 2026
Photographic Log; Locus: 131 Hartwell Ave, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: JLB Partners
LLC; Prepared by: VHB; Date: 8/30/2025
Mr. Scott Morrison, professional Wetland Scientist from VHB, presented and stated that there is
128,470 square feet of existing impervious surface onsite. Mr. Morrison stated that the proposed
project includes a multi-family residential building and parking garage with a portion of the front
of the building within the buffer zone. Stormwater improvements proposed onsite include three
infiltration systems, the reconfiguration of the stormwater basin, water quality units and deep
sump catch basins. Silt sacks and catch basins are proposed for erosion control onsite. Mr.
Morrison stated that peer review comments have been received regarding the stormwater and the
team is working on addressing these comments.
Mr. Michael Juliano, Eaglebrook Engineering, peer reviewer, was present. Ms. Ladd asked if Mr.
Juliano’s comments relate to any water that will come into the Commission’s jurisdiction or
further on the site. Mr. Juliano stated that all the water drains towards a resource area. Mr.
Juliano also stated that under the existing condition there is minimal water treatment and the
proposed conditions will provide increased treatment.
On a motion by Mr. Beuttell and seconded by Mr. Hnatko, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll call
vote to continue the hearing to 3/10/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Continued Public Meetings/Hearings
Notice of Intent: 26 Watertown Street
OpenGov Permit# CNOI-25-26, DEP #201-1376
Applicant/Property Owner: Eduardo Marfurte, Dalto’s Construction, Inc.
Project: Raze and rebuild of a single-family dwelling and associated site appurtenances within
the 100-foot buffer zone to Bank of a Pond.
Previous Hearing Dates: 10/28/2025, 11/10/2025 (no testimony), 11/25/2025 (no testimony),
12/16/2025 (no testimony), 1/6/2026 (no testimony), 1/27/2026 (no testimony)
Supplemental Documentation Submitted:
None
*Applicant has requested a continuance of the hearing without testimony from 2-24-2026 to 3-
10-2026
On a motion by Mr. Hamilton and seconded by Mr. Whelan, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll
call vote to continue the hearing to 3/10/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Notice of Intent: 475 Bedford Street
OpenGov Permit# CNOI-25-35, DEP #201-1383
Applicant/Property Owner: Essek Petrie, Pulte Homes of New England
Project: Demolition of the existing buildings onsite, construction of three multi-family residential
buildings and parking lot, landscaping, trail connection, wetland replication, and associated site
appurtenances, within Bordering Vegetated Wetlands and Isolated Vegetated Wetlands and
within the 100-foot Buffer Zone from Bordering Vegetated Wetlands and Isolated Vegetated
Wetlands.
Previous Hearing Dates: 1/27/2026, 2/10/2026 (no testimony)
Supplemental Documentation Submitted:
None
*Applicant has requested a continuance of the hearing without testimony from 2-24-2026 to 3-
10-2026
On a motion by Mr. Hamilton and seconded by Ms. Dohan the Commission voted 7-0 by roll
call vote to continue the hearing to 3/10/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Notice of Intent: 328 Lowell Street
OpenGov Permit# CNOI-26-1, DEP #201-1385
Applicant/Property Owner: Melissa Battite, Town of Lexington
Project: Construction of a natural grass athletic field, ADA accessible walkways, stormwater
improvements and associated site appurtenances within locally regulated Isolated Vegetated
Wetland (IVW) and within the 100-foot buffer zone from Bordering Vegetated Wetlands and
from the IVW.
Previous Hearing Date: 2/10/2026
Supplemental Documentation Submitted:
None
*Applicant has requested a continuance of the hearing without testimony from 2-24-2026 to 3-
10-2026
On a motion by Ms. Dohan and seconded by Mr. Hnatko, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll call
vote to continue the hearing to 3/10/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
New Business/Pending Matters, Continued
Vote to Issue Order of Resource Area Delineation: 114 Wood St, DEP #201-1370, OpenGov
CORD-25-2
Ms. Mullins presented a written decision for the Commission to review and approve. Ms.
Mullins also confirmed the Commission will approve of modified offsite areas.
On a motion by Mr. Hamilton and seconded by Mr. Whelan, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll
call vote to issue the Order of Resource Area Delineation based on the written decision presented
by Ms. Mullins.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Schedule site visits: 3/10/2026 Meeting
Ms. Downer noted that the only application received for the upcoming hearing on 3/10/2025 is
an Amended Order of Conditions for 42 Winthrop Road. Ms. Mullins asked if the Commission
feels a site visit is necessary for this site as the Commission has visited it in the fall and the site is
currently covered in snow. The Commission will not require another site visit for this site.
Reports: Bike Advisory, Community Gardens, Community Preservation Committee,
Enforcement Updates, Greenway Corridor Committee, Land Acquisition, Land Management,
Land Steward Directors, Tree Committee
None.
On a motion by Ms. Dohan and seconded by Mr. Hnatko, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll call
vote to adjourn the meeting.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Duke Bitsko – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
9:25pm
Respectfully Submitted,
Megan Guardado (Downer)
LUHD Department Assistant
Approved: 3/31/2026
Archived: 4/2/2026