HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-04-14-ConCom-min.pdf
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PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES
Conservation Commission
___________________________________________________________________________
AGENDA Tuesday, April 14th, 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, Alexandra Dohan, Philip Hamilton, Jason Hnatko,
Ruth Ladd (Chair), and Thomas Whelan;
Associate Commissioner present: Tom Olivier
Staff Present: Karen Mullins, Conservation Director, Megan Guardado, Department Assistant,
and Evan Paige, Assistant Conservation Director;
6:30 PM New Business/Pending Matters
Ms. Ruth Ladd, Chair, announced that Duke Bitsko has resigned from the Conservation
Commission.
Approve Minutes: 3/10/2026 and 3/31/2026
On a motion by Ms. Dohan and seconded by Mr. Hnatko, the Commission voted 6-0 by roll call
vote to approve the 3/10/2026 minutes.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – 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 6-0 by roll call
vote to approve the 3/31/2026 minutes.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Plan Modification: 101 Blossomcrest Rd, CPM-26-1
Ms. Mullins stated that the plan modification includes minor grading changes in the rear of the
property. The grade is proposed to be raised slightly to allow for the rear patio to be flat.
On a motion by Mr. Hamilton and seconded by Ms. Dohan, the Commission voted 6-0 by roll
call vote to approve the insignificant plan modification.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Request for Certificate of Compliance: 60 Munroe Road, DEP #201-990, OpenGov COC-25-17
Ms. Mullins asked if the Commission would prefer to visit the site prior to issuing the Certificate
of Compliance as this request is in reference to an old Notice of Intent. Ms. Ladd asked if follow-
up can be provided prior to the Commission visiting the site to confirm if the additional plantings
recommended in the monitoring report were planted. The Commission will visit the site on
Tuesday, April 21st.
Request for Certificate of Compliance: 72 Grassland Street, DEP #201-1203, OpenGov COC-26-
6
Ms. Ladd stated that the project was never started and the owner would like to close this permit.
On a motion by Mr. Beuttell and seconded by Mr. Hnatko, the Commission voted 6-0 by roll call
vote to issue the Invalid Certificate of Compliance.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Vote to Issue Order of Conditions: 118 Kendall Road, DEP #201-1388, OpenGov CNOI-26-2
On a motion by Mr. Hnatko and seconded by Ms. Dohan, the Commission voted 6-0 by roll call
vote to issue the Order of Conditions.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Schedule site visits: 4/28/2026 Meeting
The Commission will visit 114 Wood Street on Tuesday April 21st at 6pm. There are no new
filings to be reviewed for the upcoming meeting on Tuesday April 28th.
Reports: Bike Advisory, Community Gardens, Community Preservation Committee,
Enforcement Updates, Greenway Corridor Committee, Land Acquisition, Land Management,
Land Steward Directors, Tree Committee
Ms. Mullins stated that a list of compliance items to be corrected has been provided to the project
team at 1367 Massachusetts Avenue. The project team has been working on cleaning the site,
and erosion controls have been added to the site again. Ms. Mullins also stated that some of the
restoration plantings need to be re-planted and the project wetland consultant Seth Donohoe,
Dillis and Roy, will follow up with the project team with recommendations and further details.
The unauthorized filling of the wetlands onsite has been removed.
Ms. Mullins also stated that LEC has been contacted for follow-up on 2 Village Circle and 843
Emerson Gardens with monitoring reports from the restoration done on those sites.
7:00 PM New Public Meetings/Hearings
Request for Determination of Applicability: 45-55 Hayden Avenue
OpenGov Permit# CDOA-26-2
Applicant/Property Owner: Shawn Neal
Project: Removal of existing courtyard and construction of a permeable paver courtyard and a
permeable paver entry plaza, landscaping, and associated site appurtenances within the 100-foot
buffer zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands.
Documentation Submitted:
WPA Form 1 – Request for Determination of Applicability; Locus: 45-55 Hayden Ave,
Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Shawn Neal; Prepared by: Jesse Aguilar, Highpoint
Engineering; Date: 03/24/2026
45-55 Hayden Avenue Proposed Site Improvements Plans: Sheet G001, “Title Sheet”,
Sheet C100, “Site Context Plan”, Sheet C200, “Compiled Existing Conditions Plan”,
Sheet C300, “Site Preparation, Demolition, and Erosion Control Plan”, Sheet C400, “Site
Improvements Plan”, Sheet C500, “Site Details”, Sheet L-010c, “Demo & Tree Removal
Plan – Courtyard”, Sheet L-020e, “Demo & Tree Removal Plan – Entry”, Sheet L-110c,
“Landscape Materials – Courtyard”, Sheet L-120e, “Landscape Materials – Entry”, Sheet
L-310c, “Grading Plan – Courtyard”, Sheet L-320e, “Grading Plan – Entry”, Sheet L-
410c, “Planting – Courtyard”, Sheet L-420e, “Planting – Entry”, Sheet L-510c, “Site
Lighting – Courtyard”, Sheet L-520e, “Site Lighting – Entry”, Sheet L-601,”Details –
Paving 1”, Sheet L-602, “Details – Paving 2”, Sheet L-603, “Details – Lighting”, Sheet
L-604, “Details – Planting”; Locus: 45-55 Hayden Ave, Lexington, MA; Prepared for:
Healthpeak; Prepared by: Highpoint Engineering; Signed and Stamped by: Douglas J.
Hartnett, Civil PE No. 37796; Date: 03/24/2026
Project Summary – RDA Submission; Locus: 45-55 Hayden Ave, Lexington, MA;
Prepared by: Highpoint Engineering; Date: 03/23/2026
Representative Site Photos; Date: 03/23/2026
Mr. Jesse Aguilar, Highpoint Engineering, presented and Ms. Brooke Whiting Cash, landscape
architect from Lemon Brooke, was also present. Mr. Aguilar presented the site aerial with the
Bordering Vegetated Wetlands and the associated 100-foot buffer zone marked. Mr. Aguilar
stated that portions of the project are within the 100-foot buffer zone to Bordering Vegetated
Wetlands and that approximately 340 square feet of impervious concrete will be removed at the
main building entrance. Roughly 3,005 square feet of impervious concrete is proposed for
removal at the outdoor patio area along with invasive species removal. Mr. Aguilar stated that
most of the work proposed will be conducted outside of the 100-foot buffer zone. Erosion and
sedimentation control measures are proposed as well. Mr. Augilar also stated that the existing
ramp onsite will be replaced with an ADA compliant access ramp.
Ms. Whiting Cash presented the planting plans and stated that nonnative species will be removed
at the entry point and that in the courtyard area there are five bradford pear trees and four
ornamental cherry trees to be removed. Ms. Whiting Cash also noted that they have reviewed the
planting list to ensure proposed plantings would survive on this site.
Mr. Whelan stated that Lexington prefers straight native plants and that many of the proposed
plantings are cultivars. Mr. Beuttell stated that as many of the plantings are proposed outside of
the buffer zone, he would be comfortable with cultivars being planted. Ms. Ladd stated she
agrees with Mr. Beuttell’s comment.
Ms. Ladd asked if the lighting to be installed would be directed downward. Ms. Whiting Cash
stated that the lighting would be directed downward and Mr. Aguilar presented the photometric
plans.
On a motion by Mr. Beuttell and seconded by Mr. Hnatko, the Commission voted 6-0 by roll call
vote to issue a Negative Determination with conditions.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Notice of Intent: 114 Wood Street
OpenGov Permit# CNOI-26-5, DEP #201-13XX
Applicant/Property Owner: Scott Seaver, Seaver Construction / Angelo and Marianne Tortola
Project: Demolition of a single-family dwelling and associated site appurtenances, the
construction of a multi-family residential development and associated access road, parking,
utilities, grading, and other site appurtenances within the 100-foot buffer zone to Bordering
Vegetated Wetlands, an Isolated Vegetated Wetland, Isolated Land Subject to Flooding, and
Vernal Pool Habitat.
Documentation Submitted:
Notice of Intent Application and Wetland Resource Area Analysis; Locus: 114 Wood
Street, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Seaver Construction, Inc.; Property Owner: Angelo
Tortola and Marianne Tortola; Prepared by: LEC Environmental Consultants, Inc.; Date:
03/24/2026
WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent; Locus: 114 Wood Street, Lexington, MA; Prepared for:
Scott Seaver, Seaver Construction, Inc.; Property Owners: Angelo and Marianne Tortola;
Prepared by: Richard Kirby, LEC Environmental Consultants, Inc.; Date: 03/04/2026
Stormwater Management Report; Locus: 114 Wood Street, Lexington, MA; Prepared for:
Seaver Construction, Inc.; Prepared by: Frederick W. Russell, PE; Date: 03/12/2026
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Plan; Locus: 114 Wood Street, Lexington, MA;
Prepared for: Seaver Construction, Inc.; Prepared by: Frederick W. Russell, PE; Date:
03/12/2026
114 Wood Street Special Residential Development: Sheet 1, “Locus Context Plan”, Sheet
2, “Existing Conditions”, Sheet 3, “Site Analysis Map”, Sheet 4, “Erosion Control Plan”,
Sheet 5, “Property Rights Plan”, Sheet 6, “Proposed Site Layout”, Sheet 7, “Site
Construction Plan”, Sheet 8, “Site Construction Plan I”, Sheet 9, “Site Construction Plan
II”, Sheet 10, “Utilities Plan & Profile”, Sheet 11, “Construction Details I”, Sheet 12,
“Construction Details II”; Prepared for: Seaver Construction, Inc.; Prepared by: Keenan
Survey; Date: 03/12/2026
Existing Conditions Plan; Locus: 114 Wood Street, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Seaver
Properties LLC; Prepared by: Keenan Survey; Date: 02/03/2026
Landscape Plans: Sheet 1, “Landscape Plan I”, Sheet 2, “Landscape Plan II”, Sheet 3,
“Landscape Details”; Locus: 114 Wood Street, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Seaver
Properties LLC; Prepared by: Keenan Survey; Date: 08/26/2025
Buffer Zone Mitigation & Restoration Planting Plan; Locus: 114 Wood Street,
Lexington, MA; Prepared by: LEC Environmental Consultants, Inc.; Date: 03/23/2026
Mr. Richard Kirby, LEC Environmental, presented the proposed plans and stated that the
property currently contains a single-family dwelling onsite and 250-foot-wide easement. Mr.
Kirby noted that the wetland delineation onsite was approved through an Abbreviated Notice of
Resource Area Delineation (ANRAD) recently and presented the approved delineation plan. Mr.
Kirby stated that the extensive Bordering Land Subject to Flooding was not reviewed in the
ANRAD process and is included on the current plans. The highest elevation of the Flood Zone A
boundary is elevation 182 and Mr. Kirby noted that all proposed work is above elevation 182.
Mr. Kirby stated that the proposal includes demolishing the existing dwelling and site
appurtenances and constructing an 18-unit residential development with a 900-foot-long access
driveway with entrance from Wood Street. The grading associated with the proposed
development was also presented and Mr. Kirby noted that retaining walls are proposed onsite to
limit grading within the buffer zones.
The Planning Board has requested that the watermain be looped into a gate valve on Amherst
Street which is the only portion of the project proposed within the Vernal Pool Habitat buffer
zone and is proposed within an existing forested area and extends into the existing gravel
driveway on Amherst Street. Mr. Kirby stated that no significant trees are proposed for removal
for the waterline installation.
Erosion and sedimentation control measures are proposed, and the project will have to go
through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permitting process as well due to
the size of the project. Six infiltration systems are proposed on the site. Mr. Kirby also stated that
there is nearly 19,000 square feet of restoration plantings proposed for this project along with
twenty-one Feno markers to demarcate the restoration area.
Ms. Ladd stated that she does not agree with development being proposed within the 100-foot
buffer zone to Isolated Land Subject to Flooding. Ms. Dohan agrees with Ms. Ladd and noted
that the proposed development is as close to the 50-foot buffer zone as possible.
Ms. Ladd asked if the 50% rule is addressed. Mr. Kirby stated that roughly 23% of the naturally
vegetated buffer zone onsite will be altered. Ms. Ladd noted concern about the proximity of the
proposed driveway to the abutting parcel that is owned by Lexington Conservation and asked to
see a proposal for plantings or vegetated screening between the road and the conservation owned
parcel. Ms. Ladd also noted that the National Park Service has provided a letter expressing
concerns about the removal of trees onsite and protection of the stone walls.
Mr. Beuttell asked for further information on what work is proposed within the 100-foot Vernal
Pool buffer including the character of the landscaping proposed within this buffer zone. Mr.
Kirby stated that the waterline is proposed to connect to an existing pipe in Amherst Street. Mr.
Beuttell also asked what the plan of installation for the waterline is. Mr. Kirby stated that it will
be an open trench. Mr. Beuttell asked to review other options for this installation that would
cause less disturbance to the area.
Mr. Beuttell asked if tests pits were done. Mr. Fred Russell, project engineer, noted that at least
six test pits were done and presented where the test pits were done in comparison to the proposed
infiltration system site. Mr. Beuttell stated he would prefer to see a barrier in front of the
restoration area to deter anyone from entering the restoration area near the vernal pool buffer
zone as well. Mr. Kirby stated that Feno markers are flanking a 4-foot-high retaining wall and
made note of the request for near the vernal pool buffer zone.
Ms. Ladd asked for the site to be staked prior to their scheduled site visit. Mr. Kirby stated that
they have already requested the surveyor stake the site.
Ms. Linda Adler, 33 Woodpark Circle, asked if the hill onsite behind the proposed garden would
be flattened. Mr. Russell stated that the hill will be maintained as is. Ms. Adler also noted
concern for an increase of water flowing into the Conservation land from this hill and onto their
property as well and asked if this proposal could cause impacts to their property. Mr. Russell
stated that six infiltration systems are proposed onsite and every bit of impervious coverage will
be captured within these infiltration systems except for roughly 200 square feet of impervious
coverage.
Ms. Margie Brown, Natural and Cultural Resource Manager at Minuteman National Historical
Parks, expressed concerns for the proposal as it is within the administrative boundary of
Minuteman National Historical Park and the Minuteman National Historic District. Ms. Brown
stated that a letter has been sent to the Town expressing concerns about the proposed
development. Ms. Brown noted that in 1992 the boundary of the Park Authority was expanded to
include this parcel under public law 102-488 in attempt to protect land associated with the
running battle of the American Revolution. Ms. Brown stated the proposed development is
incompatible with the intent of this law.
Ms. Ladd reiterated that she is not in favor of development within the Vernal Pool Habitat buffer.
Ms. Janet Lane, 21 Hayward Ave, stated that at the beginning stages of this proposal, eighteen
units were proposed, which is still being proposed and the only changes that have been made are
the location of these units. Ms. Lane expressed concerns that the trenching and waterline
installation on Amherst Street would cause runoff issues for the Vernal Pool. Ms. Lane also
noted that nonnative lilac has been proposed on the planting list which she has seen act as
invasive species in other parks. Mr. Kirby stated that they can look into replacing the proposed
lilacs. Mr. Kirby also stated that the proposed water line would not impact the groundwater
elevation or surface flows as it is proposed for the purpose of bringing water to the proposed
buildings. Ms. Lane stated that the creation of the trench is concerning regarding any waterflow
on site in the long term due to the removal of the hill in this area. Ms. Ladd asked what the slope
is at the location of the proposed trench. Mr. Russell stated that the slope is a less than ten
percent slope.
Mr. Beuttell asked if Ms. Ladd and Ms. Dohan could explain further their concerns about the
work proposed within the 100-foot buffer of the Isolated Land Subject to Flooding. Ms. Ladd
stated that the buffer provides habitat for the vernal pool and regulations protect this 100-foot
buffer zone. Ms. Ladd stated that the loss of the canopy in this area would have an adverse
impact on the vernal pool buffer and the vernal pool. Mr. Beuttell asked that the applicant
provide evidence that this proposal would not cause adverse impacts.
Mr. Hamilton stated the Commission should invite a representative from the National Park
Services to the site visit. Ms. Ladd asked Ms. Brown to confirm if a representative will be
available to join the Commission on this site visit. Ms. Brown asked for the details of the
Commission’s site visit. Ms. Ladd stated that the Commission will meet on the Wood Street side
of the parcel at 6pm next week on Tuesday April 21st.
Mr. Whelan asked if the applicant could provide the total number of trees to be removed onsite.
Mr. Kirby stated that they do not have an exact number at this time. Mr. Kirby stated that the
bylaw regulation limits the total alteration of natural vegetation onsite to fifty percent and the
project is proposing twenty-three percent alteration.
Ms. Doreen Buchinski, 35 Hayward Ave, stated that they have directly abutted the Vernal Pool
for many years and have seen a large variety of animals onsite and they would like to see this
area protected.
Ms. Mullins stated that the Commission’s regulations do not specify between buffer zones and
regulations apply to all buffer zones. Ms. Mullins also stated that in the buffer zone standards
there is commentary on why the commission seeks to protect the buffer zones and quoted these
reasons. Ms. Mullins noted there is a steep slope performance standard in the bylaw that has not
been addressed and that a site analysis plan should be provided. Mr. Kirby stated that they will
provide this to the Commission.
Ms. Lisa Newton, 15 Ledgelawn Ave, stated that any work within the buffer zone should not
impact wildlife habitat as stated in the Town of Lexington Wetland Regulations and echoed the
concerns of Ms. Ladd and Ms. Buchinski.
On a motion by Mr. Hamilton and seconded by Ms. Dohan, the Commission voted 6-0 by roll
call vote to continue the hearing to 4/28/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Philip Hamilton – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Continued Public Meetings/Hearings
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.
Previous Hearing Date: 2/24/2026, 3/10/2026, 3/31/2026 (no testimony)
Supplemental Documentation Submitted:
Peer Review Floodplain Review Letter #1; To: Conservation Commission; From: Apex
Companies; Date: 4/10/2026
On a motion by Mr. Hnatko and seconded by Ms. Dohan, the Commission voted 6-0 by roll call
vote to continue the hearing to 4/28/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – 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), 2/24/2026 (no testimony),
3/10/2026
Supplemental Documentation Submitted:
Memorandum: To: Ruth Ladd, Chair, Town of Lexington Conservation Commission;
From: Scott Morrison, VHB; Subject: Fieldside at Lexington, 475 Bedford Street,
Lexington, Response to Conservation Commission Comments (March 10, 2026
Meeting); Date: 04/03/2026
Stormwater Report; Locus: 475 Bedford St, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Pulte Homes
of New England; Prepared By: VHB; Date: 12/1/2025; Revised: 03/31/2026
Stormwater Management System Operations and Maintenance Manual; Locus: 475
Bedford St, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Pulte Homes of New England; Prepared By:
VHB; Date: December 2025; Revised: March 2026
Snow Storage Plan; Locus: 475 Bedford St, Lexington, MA; Prepared By: VHB; Date:
12/05/2025; Revised: 02/23/2026 and 03/23/2026
Site Plans Issued for Notice of Intent: Cover Page, Sheet C1.00, “Legend and General
Notes”, Sheet C2.00, “Site Preparation, Sedimentation and Erosion Controls Plan”, Sheet
C3.00, “Grading and Drainage Plan”, Sheet C4.01, “Site Details”, Sheet C4.02, “Site
Details”, Sheet C5.01, “Existing Wetland Buffer Impervious Area Plan”, Sheet C5.02,
“Proposed Wetland Buffer Impervious Area Plan”, Sheet E1.00, “Resource Area Plan”,
Sheet E2.00, “Wetland Replication Plan and Details”, Sheet E3.00, “50-Ft Buffer Plan”;
Locus: 475 Bedford St, Lexington, MA; Prepared for: Pulte Homes of New England;
Prepared by: VHB; Signed and Stamped by: Peter T. Mara, Civil PE No. 53807; Date:
12/1/2025; Revised: 04/02/2026
Mr. Scott Morrison, VHB, presented and Mr. Essek Petrie, Pulte Homes and Mr. Dale Horsman,
AHHS, were also present at this hearing. Mr. Hamilton noted he has recused himself from this
discussion and voting on this project as he is a direct abutter. Mr. Hamilton left the meeting at
this time.
Mr. Morrisson stated that responses to the comments provided in the previous hearings have
been prepared, including the Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Plan now to be included in the
master deed documents for the site. Mr. Morrison also stated that signage has been added to the
plans to prevent encroachment into the restoration area and signage for management of the
porous pavement. The flood zone has been added to the plans. GCG Associates has provided
final peer review comments as well.
Mr. Morrison stated that the proposed replication area has a naturally occurring berm between
the wetland and the replication area, and to address this, there are now connections proposed
between these areas. The wetland connection will be overseen by a wetland scientist to ensure
proper hydrology. Mr. Morrison noted the site holds a 40-foot-wide sewer easement and a 20-
foot sewer easement, a 250-foot-wide electrical easement, and a 30-foot-wide gas easement. Mr.
Morrisson also stated that no waivers are required for this proposal.
Mr. Mike Carter, GCG Associates, stated that the applicant has addressed all comments in
respect to stormwater. Mr. Carter stated that in regard to groundwater elevation, he recommends
that additional test soils be done in the area for the infiltration systems for confirmation of the
water table prior to construction and that this is also a condition from the Planning Board. Mr.
Carter also noted that over an acre of pavement is being eliminated onsite and porous pavement
is within the 100-foot buffer zone due to the site constraints of the easements on the site.
Ms. Dohan noted that the proposed project is taking an already developed site and improving the
site conditions through the redevelopment.
Ms. Ladd asked if an alternative analysis was ever provided for this project that would avoid
proposing impacts to the wetlands. Ms. Ladd also noted that the outdoor kitchen and firepit is
proposed within the existing wetland onsite and asked if this could be moved to the east of the
site to be outside of the wetlands. She also asked for clarification on why building three could
not be proposed with a smaller footprint and moved further from the wetlands buffer to create a
25-foot buffer zone that would not be disturbed nor utilized as fire access. Ms. Ladd also noted
many trees are proposed for removal on the west side and that any plant substitutions should be
submitted to the Commission for approval in the future. The monitoring period for survivability
of plantings will be the standard 3-year monitoring period and monitoring reports must be
submitted to the Commission each year. Ms. Ladd asked that the full landscaping plan and
lighting plan be submitted to the Conservation Commission as it was only submitted to the
Planning Board and not on record with Conservation.
Mr. Beuttell agreed with Ms. Ladd’s comments that an alternative analysis would be helpful and
noted the applicant has done well clarifying wetland impacts and wetland replication. Mr.
Beuttell asked for the mitigation to be quantified prior to approval. He also asked for a specific
party to be named for who will be responsible for the O&M plan. Mr. Morrison stated that the
developer will be responsible for the O&M plan until the time that a Condo Association has been
established to take over responsibility. Mr. Morrison also stated that the project team had
informal meetings with the Commission to present prior versions of the plan and received
comments.
Mr. Petrie stated that the proposed garage under building three allows for less surface parking
including a large reduction in pavement onsite. Mr. Horsman stated that a proposed wetland
buffer plan has been provided to show the total area of impervious area in the existing versus the
proposed plans. Mr. Horsman noted that over 20,000 square feet of impervious surface is
proposed to be reduced within the 25-foot buffer zone.
Mr. Beuttell stated that he does agree the proposed conditions are great improvements to the
existing conditions, but they would like to see a more robust explanation that quantifies the
encroachments into the buffer zones and quantifies the mitigation to provide the Commission
with further information to review for approval of this project. Ms. Ladd asked for further
explanation as to how proposed building two meets the regulations. Mr. Petrie stated that the
courtyard area between building two and building three can be shifted to the east and a different
surface could be proposed for the walkway as well.
Ms. Lisa Newton, 15 Ledgelawn Avenue, asked for clarity on Section (5)5.3 regarding the buffer
zone regulations. Ms. Newton also asked if this project requires a waiver and if it would be
eligible for a waiver. Ms. Newton also said that building three should be proposed at a smaller
scale. Ms. Ladd stated that a waiver is not required if the applicant provides sufficient mitigation
to be determined by the Commission. Ms. Mullins stated that if the Commission is to be
consistent with their interpretation of the regulation, the proposed structures should not move
closer to the wetlands than at its existing conditions at any point. Ms. Newton requested that the
Commission be consistent in their interpretations.
Ms. Lin Jensen, 133 Reed Street, asked where the existing building is in comparison to the
proposed buildings. Mr. Horsman presented where the existing building is onsite in comparison
to the proposed buildings. Ms. Jensen asked if the proposed buildings are permitted to be built
further than the existing structure as the regulations seem to state this would not be permitted.
Ms. Jensen also asked where the existing impervious area and proposed impervious area is. Mr.
Horseman presented the plans and explained where the existing impervious areas are in
comparison to the proposed impervious areas and stated that there will be a net reduction of
57,942 square feet of impervious surface within the buffer zone.
Ms. Mullins clarified comments from Mr. Beuttell that the Commission would like calculations
on disturbance within the buffer zone. Mr. Beuttell stated that graphically this has been provided
and that the Commission is requesting this information be quantified.
Ms. Jensen asked for clarity on the bylaw if structure can be built closer to the wetland than the
existing structure if replication is proposed elsewhere on the site. Ms. Ladd read the bylaw to
clarify that this would be allowed if found to be impracticable to build elsewhere.
Ms. Vida Baterina Hom, 175 Grove Street, asked that any connection to the municipal sewer and
drainage system be removed from the proposal and stated that her family has concerns for
stormwater runoff from this site. Ms. Hom requested that a review of foundations for the
proposed structures, including depths to bedrock, be done by the peer review consultant. Ms.
Hom expressed concern for the weight of the proposed buildings and expressed concerns for the
water displacement from the proposed buildings. Mr. Morrison stated they are using the current
FEMA map for calculations and that all foundations will be designed by a professional engineer
and reviewed by the building department to review sufficiency for safety concerns. Mr. Morrison
also stated that there are no proposed connections to the Town Municipal drainage system. Ms.
Hom also asked that in the Operation and Maintenance Plan, stormwater runoff into the wetlands
be monitored. Mr. Morrison stated that these items have been reviewed by the Peer Reviewer to
ensure all standards are met. Ms. Hom asked that the peer reviewer look into the foundations
prior to the Commission’s approval. Mr. Petrie stated that geotechnical scientists have helped
with the design of these foundations to ensure safety onsite and that the building department
follows up with inspections throughout all construction activity. Mr. Beuttell stated that the
questions are not applicable to the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission’s authority, and
they cannot ask a peer review consultant to review for a foundations plan. Ms. Mullins stated that
Zoning requires a two-foot separation from groundwater which is reviewed during the building
permit review process by the Building Commissioner.
On a motion by Mr. Beuttell and seconded by Mr. Hnatko, the Commission voted 6-0 by roll call
vote to continue the hearing to 4/28/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – 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.
Previous Hearing Dates: 2/24/2026, 3/10/2026 (no testimony), 3/31/2026 (no testimony)
Supplemental Documentation Submitted:
Hartwell Ave Residences Plan Set: Sheet C1.00, “Legend and General Notes”, Sheet
C2.00, “Site Preparation Plan’, Sheet C3.00, “Layout and Materials Plan”, Sheet C4.00,
“Grading and Drainage Plan”, Sheet C5.00, “Utility Plan”, Sheet C6.01, “Site Details”,
Sheet C6.02, “Site Details”, Sheet C6.03, “Site Details”, Sheet C6.04, “Site Details”,
Sheet C6.05, “Site Details”, Sheet C7.00, “Emergency Access Plan”, Sheet C8.00, “Site
Analysis Plan”; 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; Revised: 3/23/2026
NJCAT Technology Verification; Contech Engineered Solutions, LLC; Date: November
2019; Amended Table A-1: August 2020
Stormwater Management Report; Locus: 131 Hartwell Ave, Lexington, MA; Prepared
for: JLB Realty LLC; Prepared by: VHB; Date: January 2026; Revised: March 2026
Memorandum: Response to Peer Review Letter; To: Karen Mullins, Conservation
Director, and Lexington Conservation Commission; From: Nick Skoly, VHB; Date:
3/23/2026
*Applicant has requested a continuance of the hearing without testimony from 4-14-2026 to 4-
28-2026
On a motion by Ms. Dohan and seconded by Mr. Hnatko, the Commission voted 5-0 by roll call
vote to continue the hearing to 4/28/2026, at the applicant’s request.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Amendment to Order of Conditions: 560 Concord Ave
OpenGov Permit# AOOC-26-3, DEP #201-1344
Applicant/Property Owner: Sreeprakash Narayanan and Padmapriya Jagannathan
Project: Plan modifications including an increase to the approved deck and roof overhang
footprint, a shift in the location of the deck stairs, installation of pervious pavers below the deck
instead of the approved stone, and installation of steps from the patio to the lawn, and window
well, within the 100-foot buffer zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands.
Previous Hearing Date: 3/31/2026
Supplemental Documentation Submitted:
Engineering Comments; 4/10/2026
Ms. Ladd stated that a condition will be included for installation of pervious pavers.
On a motion by Ms. Dohan and seconded by Mr. Whelan, the Commission voted 5-0 by roll call
vote to close the hearing.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
Mr. Beuttell noted that many applications received are providing plans with structures built at
50.0 feet and that the Commission should review their procedures moving forward to avoid
continuous plan changes. Ms. Mullins stated that the Commission also discussed previously
revising their regulations. Mr. Whelan stated that a subcommittee was created for this and no
progress has been made yet.
On a motion by Ms. Dohan and seconded by Mr. Beuttell, the Commission voted 5-0 by roll call
vote to adjourn the meeting.
Record of Vote as Follows:
Kevin Beuttell – Aye
Alex Dohan – Aye
Jason Hnatko – Aye
Ruth Ladd – Aye
Tom Whelan – Aye
10:00pm
Respectfully Submitted,
Megan Guardado
LUHD Department Assistant
Approved: 6/9/2026
Archived: 6/11/2026