Michael A. Caira

Key discussion points included updates on the draft MS4 Permit, which remains unapproved by the EPA, noting that the town will face a 90-day window for Notice of Intent submission upon final release. Waushakum Pond was identified as a Water Quality Limited Body for phosphorus impairment, necessitating prioritization of associated storm water structures. A status report detailed current stormwater activities for FY2026, including the cleaning of 600 catch basins (25% completion), ongoing catchment investigations, and the pursuit of a grant through Massachusetts ECO One Stop for potential projects like culvert replacement. The committee discussed the FY2027 budget process, including options drafted by the DPW and the possibility of presenting to the Select Board. Operational planning addressed the draft 10-year capital plan for catch basin replacement in anticipation of the new EPA MS4 Permit. Public education efforts reviewed the planned spring completion of catch basin painting by the AHS environmental club, the collection of surface water samples, and outreach via local advertisements, including potential collaboration with Engineers Without Borders.

Key discussions focused on updates regarding the draft MS4 Permit, which remains unapproved by the EPA, noting that Waushakum Pond is identified as a Water Quality Limited Body for phosphorus impairment, requiring prioritization of surrounding stormwater structures. A status report detailed Year-to-Date stormwater activities, including street sweeping, catch basin cleaning (600 cleaned so far in FY2026), and investigations into deep sump catchbasins. The committee also discussed the budget for FY2027, including the possibility of adding storm water projects and presenting budget options to the Select Board. Operational planning involved reviewing the draft 10-year capital plan for stormwater, which includes estimated costs for catch basin replacement expected under the new MS4 Permit. Public education and outreach efforts were reviewed, covering AHS environmental club activities such as catch basin painting and water collection, school program follow-up, running stormwater advertisements, and potential assistance from Engineers Without Borders.

The meeting involved a continuance of the public hearing for the 55 West Union Street 40B Comprehensive Permit, focusing primarily on the relocation of a sewer line on Memorial Drive. Following a working session, the Board considered options such as deferring the final decision until fieldwork can be performed or imposing a condition requiring the line to be in the road unless modification is sought. Architectural review was presented for the proposed 116-unit residential building, detailing unit mix, parking ratio, height, and amenities. The peer reviewer noted they would provide further input on neighborhood harmony and elevator sizing. Concerns raised by abutters were acknowledged, and the applicant's representative agreed to address these in the subsequent hearing. Additionally, the Board recommended Alex Mironovas for appointment as an Associate Member of the Zoning Board of Appeals.

The meeting included a presentation on the draft overview of the Housing Production Plan (HPP), detailing its purpose to address housing needs, regain "Safe Harbor" status concerning the Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI) benchmark, and its components, such as the Needs Assessment and Five Year Goals. The Board also addressed public comments regarding the Comprehensive Plan Implementation Committee status and the desire for published draft bylaws before discussions. An Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for 21 Olive Street, involving the combination of three lots into one, was approved. A public hearing was opened to discuss amendments to the Zoning Bylaws concerning In-Law Apartments, specifically addressing concerns raised by the Building Commissioner regarding the differentiation between In-Law Apartments and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and establishing a proposed size limit of 800 square-feet for in-law apartments; this discussion was continued to the next meeting. Several other public hearings regarding properties at Memorial Drive, Tilton Ave, and Pleasant Street were continued.

Key discussions focused on potential projects for a visiting boy scout, including spreading stone at the new Winter Street parking lot, establishing deer exclosures, or working on a bridge project along the Winter Street trail. Expense submittals and accounting updates were reviewed, covering costs for kiosk posts, kiosk doors, and the Buggy return fee, along with updates on the Town Meeting grant funds allocated for appraisals and surveys, noting a future expected survey cost. The committee is reviewing options to replace UTV batteries with Lithium alternatives. Subcommittee reports included progress on Tree of Heaven treatment, grant opportunities, and the approval of the final draft for the Margareth Pittman bungalow plaque. The Education and Promotion subcommittee is planning fundraising and construction for a FLY project (Pollinator Garden) and scheduled a Forest Bathing event. Goals for 2026 included securing a better meeting room and completing UTV maintenance. Additional goals centered on trail maintenance, deer exclosures, and community involvement projects, such as removing a playhouse and addressing a misplaced camera. Finally, a motion was passed to approve Colin Large as an Associate Member.