Town of Chester

The commission discussed the history and structure of the group, along with establishing goals and objectives. Updates were provided on the summer recreation program and recent water testing results. There was significant discussion regarding the lack of an operating budget and the need for a funding mechanism for maintenance and repairs. Additionally, a resident presented information regarding a petition for the Zoning Board of Adjustment concerning a variance request for an earth processing materials facility.

The commission discussed several items, including marketing efforts for the website and upcoming mailer, the Northwoods survey, and the use of rain barrels. There was a review of the treasurer's report and status of various financial accounts. Updates were provided on Spring Hill Farm maintenance and the upcoming Fall Fest. The Wason Pond Conservation Area was reviewed, focusing on the summer program and the need for a maintenance budget. The commission also addressed easement monitoring, including proposals for monitoring specific farms, violations reported at Colby Farm, and land procurement status for a North Woods parcel.

The meeting included the appointment of new members to the Business and Economic Committee and the Heritage Commission, along with the decision to revitalize the Agricultural Commission. A public hearing was held regarding a barn easement, resulting in the approval of a tax abatement. The board discussed road acceptance and decided to continue the public hearing for Pipit Drive to a later date. Further actions involved authorizing a grant reimbursement process, establishing new police detail rates, accepting a donation of office furniture, and approving a construction contractor for various roadwork projects. The board also held multiple non-public sessions to discuss legal and personnel matters.

The board approved the release of impact fees for the replacement of the Post Office heating boiler and discussed the lack of funding for police details at public hearings, agreeing to utilize duty officer check-ins instead. The board reviewed and suggested edits for the Town Planner job description, including a shift toward digital database management. Discussions also covered rental lease restrictions for the Village at Buxton Farm, as well as two Right-to-Know requests concerning historical impact fee waivers and information on the Stacey Lane subdivision.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding a subdivision application for the construction of 34 single-family detached rental units at 611 Haverhill Road. Discussion topics covered soil contamination testing, including heavy metals and PFAS, drawdown testing for community water systems, access and easement concerns raised by abutters, drainage and runoff management, and the potential impact on local property values, traffic, and school occupancy. The Board also reviewed general business, including the approval of invoices and documentation. The public hearing was continued to a future date.