DRAFT CONSERVATION COMMISSION MINUTES

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 20067:00 PM

CATA CONFERENCE ROOM

3 POND ROAD

MAX SCHENK, CHAIRMAN

 

MEMBERS PRESENT

Max Schenk, Chairman

Elizabeth Steele

Charlie Anderson

Arthur Socolow

William Febiger

Robert Gulla

 

MEMBERS ABSENT

Ann Jo Jackson

 

STAFF PRESENT

Nancy Ryder, Conservation Agent

Carol Gray,  Recording Clerk

 

I.  APPROVAL OF MINUTES

    Tabled

 

CLOSURE OF HEARINGS, REVIEW OF FINAL INFORMATION, AMENDMENT AND SIGNING PERMITS/DECISIONS

 

HOWARD ROAD   (Map 99 Lot 64)

June Sutherland, applicant. 

The Agent states that this was approved at the last meeting, 10/18/06 and is on the agenda for the Commissioners to sign.  

11/1/06 Signed by all members present.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT

Steven Golden reiterated information regarding the last meeting and his discussion with the Commission.  He still feels that the public has not had there full right to speak regarding the project involving Carrigan Enterprises, the Hutchins Court project

He further stated that residents, the Massachusetts Audubon Society as well as botany

studies in relation to the habitat should be heard and information gathered. 

An environment impact statement had no studies on it.

He stated that adequate wildlife studies need to be done.  He further stated that Chairman Max Schenk had lived in the area and felt that he viewed similar observations regarding the habitat in that particular area.  Mr. Golden further stated that he felt the residents have been shut out and this situation is not being handled well.

PUBLIC COMMENT:  Closed

 

 

Mr. Socolow inquired with Mr. Golden as to his knowledge of Carrigan Ent. going before the Planning and/or Zoning Boards.  Mr. Golden replied no, to his knowledge they had not.                                  Closed

 

OTHER COMMISSION BUSINESS

~LNG is back on the permitting track. 

             Coast Guard, The Wale Center and committees meeting, Salem and Gloucester

Meetings scheduled for 11/8/06 and 11/9/06. 

There is a meeting with the Mayor on Friday to strategize.  This information will continue on to the Governors Office

 

~MA NHESP CD was sent to the Commission but no new map.  One is being requested

This request is backordered.  Ms. Steele offered to make copies for the Commission members.

 

~Watermark 2006-2

A newsletter of interest the Agent offered to the Commission members.

 

~28 Stanwood Avenue 28-1796.  (Applicant Marsha Martin)

Notice from Atty. Johnstone re (owner), Barletta

Ms. Ryder states that abutters to the property are opposed to the project.

Initially opposition was withdrawn regarding the project as Mr. Barletta offered to share the deck with abutters then after the permit was issued, Mr. Barletta withdrew his offer.

Mr. Anderson inquired as to the sharing being part of a condition with the Agent stating no, not a condition, and based on DMF’s response it would not have gone through.

 

~Brooks Road Docks

1 Year Temporary permit

Ms. Ryder conveyed that in regards to the standoffs, they sunk 7 inches into muck.

This is on city land and the neighbor built without a permit, pre granted easement

to utilize, not to build.

 

~DEP response statement to the Sam Park MEPA-DEIR

Copy of information from the Agent    additional info:  Sam Park Fuller School

A letter of response from the EPA was read by Mr. Schenk.  A copy of this letter is to be mailed out to the Commission members on Friday.

 

~Summary information re: the new mulch sock product and other innovative erosion control technologies

The Agent stated she had a packet of information regarding the erosion control technologies.  Mr. Schenk asked who was offering this innovative product and the Agent stated that the agency is called Pro Bark     Ms. Steele stated that information can be mail-ordered.

 

 

AGENTS REPORT ON VIOLATIONS

 

540 WASHINGTON STREET

This is in regards to a patio.  The Agent stated that this is not under the umbrella of the Gloucester Wetlands.  This looks to be close to the stone wall but actually the measurement is 180 ft. from the wall.      Letter Permit issued.

 

20 ANDREWS STREET

The Agent conveyed this is within 100 ft. of the buffer zone. 

The owner did not understand the coastal bank.  The Agent explained and the applicant got everything done and permitted.  The Agent felt this was all very positive.

 

130 WHEELER STREET

Notice of Intent due today or fines to be issued by the Commission.

Fred Giesel – a 2 week extension for the NOI’s to be filed.  Nothing being done on site at this time.

Mr. Schenk inquired with the Commission as to granting a continuance and Mr. Socolow said yes on the continuance with Mr. Febiger asking possibly 7 days?  The Agent stated that this would have to be for November 15 2006 to be placed on the December agenda.

Mr. Gulla agreed as well as Ms. Steele.

MOTION:  Mr. Gulla moved to for a 2 week extension for the NOI to be filed.

SECOND:  Mr. Socolow               VOTE:  6-0 all in favor

 

 

 

5 HOMAN’S COURT (Map 219 Lot 156)

NEW: Re opening the request from Joseph Sanfilippo to construct road, drainage system and dwelling as part of a 4 unit subdivision.

Mr. Sanfilippo has come before the Commission wanting a Wetland delineation on paper.

He stated that Ms. Ryder, himself and a representative from Hancock marked the area.

He feels the Planning Board may approve the project.  He conveyed to the Commission that time was taken re: the storm water management plan. 

 

He spoke with the Commission regarding a continuance in order for the Commission to access any questions and/or concerns they may have re: the turn around, the **hammerbed**, the swale and/or anything else they may question or have concerns about.  Mr. Schenk inquired as to a re-opening and continuance regarding the decisions being made by the Planning Board. 

Ms. Ryder noted that to re open the whole presentation would have to be done again and scheduled.  She further stated that Engineering and the Planning Board and they conveyed that the storm water is at a level of complication, the construction review is barely done and the delineation is noted but not on paper.  The Agent further discussed a whole new NOI as well as not changing the whole scope of the project.  Should this be brought to the Commission first or to the Planning Board first.

She further stated that the storm water management is not easy but a burden of proof to be met.  Mr. Sanfilippo stated that an endless amount his time has been spent researching this.  He spoke in regards to the different boards being more lenient than others and felt that the Conservation Commission decisions may be the hardest to meet.

Mr. Schenk noted that this matter could be continued by the Commission but that the Planning Board may not have made a decision at that time as well the suggestion of the applicant going through the Planning Board process then scheduling a time for the next upcoming Cons. Comm. meeting.  Mr. Gulla noted that the applicant should bring to the Agent any substantial changes and noted a new NOI.

Ms. Ryder noted that the applicant having the same project can ask for a re opening, if the Commission agrees.  If anything is to change then a new NOI is to be filed.

Mr. Schenk inquired with the Agent as to the delineation being o.k. when discussed at the previous meeting and Ms. Ryder stated yes, o.k. at that time.

Site plan, delineation information 8/8/06 viewed by the Agent, Ms. Steele, Mr. Schenk and Mr. Febiger.  Mr. Schenk inquired as to an order of condition with the Agent and Ms. Ryder stated no.  It was noted that it still should be an Order of Condition to approve the delineation with no work.  Mr. Socolow inquired as to the Agent being satisfied with the delineation and she stated yes.

MOTION:  Mr. Socolow moves to approve

SECOND:  Mr. Anderson, for delineation only, no work to be included, no approval of storm water or construction.  The Applicant noted landscaping within 100ft of the buffer zone, cannot excavate.                                   VOTE:  6-0 all in favor                  Continued: 11-15-06 7:05 for signing.

 

 

HUTCHINS COURT (Map 115 Lot 30 Map 125 Lots 22 & 71)

Carrigan Enterprises requests the Commission to determine the applicability of the Wetlands Protection Act and the local Wetlands Ordinance to make improvements Hutchins Ct. and construct driveway off Hutchins Ct. to access residential buildings to be located outside of the buffer zone.

Ms. Ryder and Mr. Gulla – recused.

 

Michelle Harrison, Esq. present and states to the Commission that this is a continuation of a public hearing.   An application filed, Request for Delineation as well as information regarding low impact techniques.   Positive determination 2 positive, 1 negative and 1 *missing info*.

It was noted there was confusion about the vote and its meaning.  Section 210 SMR 10 was noted in regards to a particular action to be taken.  It was further noted that 3 votes of positive determination were necessary and there were only 2 at that time.

The Commission noted that the vote was a denial and an irregularity for it to be continued.  3 votes were needed and that didn’t’ happen.

There was further information regarding withdrawing the Request for Determination of applicability and go forward with the NOI this evening.  Ms. Steele noted that the Commission asked about the comments from DEP re: the RDA.  Ms. Harrison stated that there was no response re: the RDA.  Mr. Schenk stated that with a withdrawal no motion is needed.  The applicant withdraws the RDA for applicability for work proposed at Hutchins Court and will go forward on the NOI for work.

 

ATLANTIC STREET (Map 254)

The City of Gloucester to replace failed culvert and install new storm water Best Management Practices.  A request for continuation was submitted.

Mr. Schenk recused himself. 

Mr. Febiger inquired with the Commission to vote on a continuation

MOTION:  Mr. Gulla moves to continue the matter until 12/6/06 8 PM

SECOND:  Ms. Steele            VOTE: 5-0 all in favor

 

 

Mr. Schenk discussed grants received, Environmental Affairs Water Shed Project

**Dunfudgen**, Boat Ramp.  This was a saltwater swimming pool used in the late 1960’s.  It is to be restored to its natural elevation, a salt pan area, natural vegetation.

Many organizations are involved in the project.  An assessment of the site was done with students on 10/24/06 with mud being dug up and experts on site determining what was there.  The next phase would be restoration and removing old elements of the pool.

The grade: silt clay.  Students will return to see results.

Ms. Ryder stated that 5 Marine Biologists were at the site as well.

Mr. Socolow inquired as to a write up being done as to what will be done on the property and Mr. Schenk stated this had previously been approved.  Mr. Gulla inquired as to the square footage and if a timetable was available and Ms. Ryder stated it was under 1000.

Mr. Schenk inquired as to trash and rock in the area.  He further stated that ground work would be done in the spring.

 

 

Small Flow Quarterly Ms. Ryder noted the quarterly and its content:

Articles related to Title 5

Limited impact and storm water issues

 

Open Space Project

Ms. Ryder stated that the project is going forward and a presentation is being put together.

 

KEYSTONE ROAD (Map 237 Lot 106)

Mark Hubbard to install approximately 580 feet of water and sewer service pipes.

Mr. Gulla –recused as he is an abutter.

Mr. Hubbard spoke to the Commission regarding a couple of changes and will have a new plan for the next meeting.  He is adding electrical in the roadway and spoke about the sewer pipe, the water pipe and the electrics.  He stated that the NOI is related to all being done in the road.  He further stated that the land is subdivided into 4 lots.  NOI will be filed for each lot.

The Wetlands have been tagged.  Mr. Febiger asked if the tagging was anything different from what is on the plan. 

Mr. Hubbard stated that the tags were noted even better and will be on all 4 lots.  Ms. Ryder noted that the Wetlands comes right to the road and that there were not a lot of changes.  Mr. Hubbard noted that the road is in the buffer zone.

It was also noted that this is just for the utilities in the street.  Further noted was a change in the silt fence.  Mr. Febiger further asked about changes made and Mr. Hubbard stated that Engineering was not going to give the permits, didn’t talk a lot about the plan and this is moving forward with permits from the state.  Mr. Hubbard stated that state approval is needed regarding the extension of the sewer line

and that the extension stops but the connection can go forward.

Mr. Schenk inquired as to the 4 lots connecting to that extension and Mr. Hubbard stated that each lot has frontage to the connection.

Mr. Hubbard is asking for a continuance and will be ready for the next meeting with his revisions to the plan.  The plans are to be submitted to the Agent a week from today (Wednesday), and scheduled before the Commission 11/15/06 7:30PM

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Steven Golden stated that sewer extensions need dual permits and in checking with the Engineering Dept. he was told there is still a freeze on granting extensions particularly in undeveloped areas.  He felt the Commission should be checking with the Engineering Dept. as this issue is being debated by the City Council.  He requested that there be no decision by the Cons. Comm.

Mr. Schenk inquired as to any changes in writing and Ms. Ryder stated there was nothing in writing. 

 

 

Ms. Ryder in response to Mr. Golden stated that several years ago when NOI was brought to the Commission it should’ve triggered MEPA filing and didn’t, the project was approved and can’t trigger MEPA for each project.

Mr. Hubbard stated that a 30 day period was available for any submissions of public comment and the period has now lapsed.  The Permit is effective for 5 years quoting Chapter 83 10.    

Further discussed was a Sewer Task Force meeting and that the Eng. Dept. reached out beyond there authority and that will be taken away later.

 

 

5 Minute Recess

 

Meeting resumes:

 

The meeting resumes with Mr. Golden stating that he felt Mr. Hubbard can’t speak for the Legal Dept. and/or The City of Gloucester.

Mr. Schenk noted that any paperwork is to be submitted and Ms. Ryder requested that requests can be made to the Eng. Dept as well as the Legal Dept.

Mr. Hubbard stated that the legal document is the permit and that the state governs the extensions and he has that permit.

Mr. Golden felt that the legal quotes made by Mr. Hubbard, be investigated.  He further asked the Agent if she had any information from the Eng. Dept and that she should speak now about it.  The Agent stated that she can but she is not going to as the information should be in writing.

MOTION:  Mr. Socolow moves to continue the matter until 11/15/06 7:30 PM

SECOND:  Mr. Anderson                 VOTE:  5-0 all in favor

 

 

39 RIVER ROAD (Map 118 Lots 5 & 6)

Campbell Edlund to construct an addition, pier with float, re point the seawall and conduct  landscaping activities.

This is a request for a continuance with no one appearing at the meeting.

MOTION:  Mr. Febiger moves to continue the matter until 11/15/06 8:00 PM

SECOND:  Ms. Steele                  VOTE:  6-0 all in favor

 

 

282 MAGNOLIA AVENUE (Map 206 Lot 21)

Alexander Ziolkowski to raze and construct a dwelling with associated driveway, utilities and landscaping improvements.

Request for continuance submitted.

MOTION:  Ms. Steele moved to continue the matter until 11/15/06 8:30

SECOND:  Mr. Febiger            VOTE:  6-0 all in favor

 

 

COMMISSION BUSINESS

Requests for Certificates of Compliance

 

141R RIVERVIEW ROAD (previously tabled)

The address is:  101R Riverview Road

Mr. Anderson spoke of the site visit and noted pipes in the marsh

It was further noted that more information is needed regarding the purpose and that the Commission can review the information and either approve or deny at that time.

MOTION: Mr. Socolow moves to continue the matter

SECOND: Mr. Gulla              VOTE:  6-0 all in favor

 

24 WOLF HILL WAY 

Mr. Anderson and the Agent made a site visit.

The request is as built

The Agent is recommending a Certificate of Compliance.

Mr. Schenk asked if the Commission needed further discussion on the matter and the consensus was none was needed.

Positive COC

Mr. Gulla asked the Agent if any cutting was going on and her reply was a no and that everything permitted except the *missing info*.

MOTION:  Mr. Febiger

SECOND:  Mr. Socolow                   VOTE:  6-0 all in favor and signed

 

7 CRAFTS ROAD

Mr. Anderson commented on his site visit stating everything was in order.

Photos were submitted to the Commission.

Mr. Schenk inquired as to any Commission members needed further discussion on this matter and it was the consensus that none was needed. 

MOTION:  Mr. Socolow moved to approve

SECOND:  Mr. Gulla                   VOTE:  6-0 all in favor and signed

 

HUTCHINS COURT (Map 115 Lot 30 Map 125 Lots 22 & 71)

Carrigan Enterprises, Inc. to make improvements to Hutchins Court and construct a driveway off Hutchins Court to access residential buildings to be located outside of the buffer zone.

This is a Notice of Intent filing.

Ms. Ryder and Mr. Gulla – recused.

Mr. Peter Forbach, Esq. (co-counsel with Ms. Harrison)

Mr. Forbach noted others in attendance in relation to this matter:  David Tufts, Mike Kerrigan,

Peter Hogan, and Mike Seacamp.

 

 

 

 

Mr. Forbach stated to the Commission that re: the buffer zone there will be a small amount of Wetland filling re: the culvert, 60-65 sq.ft..  He felt that it was unavoidable with limited impact to the Wetland.

He further mentioned the original filing of ANRAD.

He went on to tell the Commission that a conscience effort has been made to stay out of the Wetland and buffer zone, producing low impact to the delineation.  Sensitive areas and the buffer zone are being considered.  There is a need to improve the access road as well as widening it.

The culvert has to be widened a bit with a small amount of Wetland filling.  He feels this is an approvable project.  Mr. Hogan will be submitting comments.

Mr. Seacamp noted no signs of habitat in that area.

Mr. Hogan stated that DEP has issued a file number.  He further stated that with small buffer zone activity it would be impossible not to impact these certain areas.  The 65 sq. ft. of Wetland filling abuts an intermittent stream.  The road would be widened to 20 ft.  A culvert extension with a burm is needed.

On the plan it was noted:  The buffer zone is listed in red and actually in the buffer zone is listed in green.  There is a need to replace a 6 inch water line which is insufficient at present.

From Revere Street to Hutchins Ct. and into Tufts Lane. 

There is 9000 sq. ft. of isolated vegetated Wetland.  The new driveway would be used as a bypass.

18 6 20% grade The new driveway chosen would be through the Tufts property.

A drainage system is proposed through storm water management.

It was noted that the state raised some issues and a written response will be given to the Commission tomorrow (Thursday).  The storm cepter or other suitable device is to meet storm water management.

Further discussion is needed regarding the concerns of the state.

It was reiterated that this project will have a very small impact on the Wetlands. This is a steel area with the land dropping off rapidly with no guardrail.  The area also has fingerlike projections.  Mr. Hogan further stated that he felt replication was not necessary.   The stream is narrow and definitely not low flat topography.  The M3 area was noted, in regards to replication.  Mr. Hogan stated he was hoping to avoid the area so as not to cause more disruption to the buffer zone.

Mr. Forbach noted that this would cause more harm than good.  As a limited project he felt this plan should qualify.  Mr. Hogan stated that in regards to the state concerns, test pit info., exploring other alternatives with LID, and didn’t want to have to dig re: the whole design.  He is asking the Commission to allow digging of a test pit hole in one particular area.  The Watershed F and G same direction with a slight difference in flow.  Only discharge is in regards to the roof.

State concern re: MEPA jurisdiction.  Mr. Hogan stated he doesn’t see any need for that.   The threshold is 5 acres and the project only has 2 ½ acres and felt this would not qualify. 

Mr. Forbach noted that a tree or two may be in the way and it’s a catch 22 as the info is needed but has to be done in the buffer to do so.  He would like verbal permission from the Commission to do so.

Mr. Schenk asked how deep the test pit holes would be, 10 ft ?  Mr. Hogan stated that there is no specification but he would be looking for the soil profile.

A back hoe or the like would be needed and 3 test pit holes would be dug.

 

 

Ms. Steele asked if specific sites on the property have been chosen.  Mr. Hogan stated that this would be done in the floor of the basin which he noted on the site plan in pen.

Ms. Steele inquired as to the dotted lines on the plan:  the proposed grade with numerals listed as the existing grade.  Mr. Schenk noted that this is a very steep area.

Mr. Hogan was asked if the soc pits would be refilled and he stated, yes, they would be backfilled.

Mr. Schenk noted that this is matter of working with the Agent re: staking off the area.

Agent recused.

Mr. Schenk stated a site visit for the areas where the test pit holes would be done.

Ms. Steele noted that the applicant should notify the Conservation Office 48 hrs. before this is to be done.  Mr. Socolow inquired as the intermittent stream.  He was informed that it was dry now.

A member of the general public spoke and stated that it is dry now because the culvert is blocked.

Mr. Schenk noted that a number of people would like a site visit.

Individuals not supporting the project would like a chance to respond during the public comment.

Mr. Schenk noted to all that we must be mindful and focus on the issues that have Commission jurisdiction and be respectful trying not to duplicate others statements.  He further asked that statements be submitted in writing.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT:

 

Janice Chick of 16 Hutchins Ct -. spoke regarding the City of Gloucester putting in a replaced culvert with a smaller pipe in regards to the intermittent stream there really is no flow to the stream because the water is going everywhere else.  She further stated that there is a large body of water on the opposite side of the street.  She went on to say that this situation is not serving what needs to be done. 

 

Dan Sandy – stated that there is a need for a real culvert for the stream to exist and flow.

Mr. Forbach stated that the Cons. Comm. and DEP are involved with the delineation and further stated it is what it is, and feels the blockage will be alleviated with the project in place.

Mr. Hogan inquired with Ms. Chick as to any documentation of a larger pipe being in place at that location at any other time and Ms. Chick stated yes there was documentation.

Mr. Schenk stated at a previous meeting there was a discussion relating to the Commission wanting the size of the pipe to change anyway.  He further stated that there is amphibian migration in that area.

 

Mr. Golden stated that there is a wildlife habitat in the area and cited woodpeckers and owls.  He further stated in relation to the wildlife habitat that spotted turtles were identified but de listed by Natural Heritage.  He felt that because of the de listing that should give the Commission even more reason to protect the area.

He further went on to say that what was needed is a Wildlife Habitat Study and a 3rd party review.  He stated that the stream bed is a migratory route, he again stated information about the spotted turtles and further stated that there are vernal pools in and/or near the area as well.  

 

He had concerns about traffic in the area with the potential of 30 new homes both of which would impact the buffer zone and resource area.  

He felt this is an extraordinarily important area.   He feels that this project should not have limited project status or be listed as an improvement to Hutchins Ct.  He stated it was insulting to hear Mr. Forbach mention the project as limited and/or minor.  He stated that this area is a core bio map habitat.

Mr. Golden further stated that there is a real difference between environmentally sensitive and the legal aspects of the buffer zone. 

 

Mr. Schenk noted that others may want to speak regarding this issue and that there should be a balance of time for that to happen. 

Mr. Golden stated he would like rebuttal time to respond to Mr. Forbach’s rebuttal.

Mr. Forbach felt it was irrelevant and should be writing.

Mr. Seacamp stated that the habitat corridor, currently a road with potential for improving the habitat with a bigger culvert, the invert determines elevation of the upstream Wetland.

 

Mr. Fred Giesel stated that the original NOI was filed in July.  He stated that Mr. Forbach noted, redevelopment but its not being proposed as that.  The application is not for a limited project and has not been amended as such.  The fact that it was noted that DEP would like favorably with the low impact design and redevelopment is not a correct assessment.  He further stated that this connects two resource areas which doesn’t flow every day of the year but not just an intermittent stream.  A letter was faxed to the Cons. Comm. today. 

Mr. Schenk stated he has not read the documents today  and would like the opportunity to discuss  the content at the next meeting.

Mr. Giesel stated he has as of yet not seen a plan re: the buffer zone, the resource area and the construction sequence.  He stated these things are missing, he feels frustrated and is looking for things to analyze but there is nothing to analyze as of yet.

He further stated that it is erroneous and slanderous for the Atty. to make comments about tactics of delaying the process and felt that was outlandish.  Mr. Giesel feels if anyone has delayed this process it is the applicant and noted the canceling of an appearance at a meeting because of the lack of some in attendance who just may be favorable to the plan. 

Ms. Steele inquired with Mr. Hogan as to the waterline and pipe and Mr. Hogan stated it was 12 inches which would be replacing a 6 inch.

Richard Crangle – 30 Bennett Street

Mr. Crangle spoke in regards to the retention area in the buffer zone.  He had a question regarding diking and the scope of that and how it would affect the area.  He asked for a clarification as he feels some of the project is vague. 

Mr. Schenk felt more details were needed and proposed further discussion in regards to this matter for the next meeting.

Mr. Hogan stated that the grading shown in green with limited activity, which is noted on the plan at the Cons. Office. 

 

Mr. Schenk stated there should be a review of information and a site visit.

Site visit: Saturday 9 AM Tufts residence

A separate meeting for a site visit to be had with Mr. Anderson who cannot attend on Saturday.  He will contact Ms. Harrison in regards to a date and time for his site visit.

Mr. Socolow asked if the number of houses proposed was 30 and were they on the plan and Ms. Harrison stated 24 structures proposed.  Mr. Schenk stated that was outside our jurisdiction.

MOTION:  Mr. Socolow moves to continue the matter until 11/15/06 9PM

SECOND:  Ms. Steele              VOTE:  5-0 all in favor

 

 

18 HODGKINS STREET (Map 102 Lot 77)    New

Michelle Sweet requests the Commission to determine the applicability of the Wetlands Protection Act and the local Wetlands Ord. to construct addition and deck.

This is an extension to the existing home and a deck.  The existing deck is to be removed.

Mr. Schenk asked about the resource area and was told that Mill River is across the street.

The plan was viewed by all members present.

110 ft. from the property line was noted. 

Ms. Ryder stated that this is outside the Commissions jurisdiction.

For submittal:  topographical line noted on both sides of the property is in the Commissions best interest for that to be shown.  The high water mark is shown on the plan for the Commission to view.

The Agent noted that the elevation on the plan mean high water for the river.  There is no mark as to the elevation on the plan.

Mr. Gulla noted that possibly the 110 ft. noted may be erroneous.  Ms. Ryder stated not necessarily, we just can’t tell.  Construction details are not listed on the plan.

Mr. Schenk noted that the Engineering Dept can determine this and Ms. Ryder stated that the Engineering Dept can assist with this important piece of information for the file as well as for the Commission.  Ms. Ryder further stated that the erosion and sedimentation plan needs to be listed as well.

She further suggested a meeting on site.  The applicant will contact the Agent’s office for more clarification. 

Mr. Febiger inquired as to any storm drains and the applicant stated there is a drain down the street.

Ms. Ryder stated that it should be shown on the plan, under the Wetlands Prot. Act. it is considered accessory use, not a problem, just needs clarification.

PUBLIC COMMENT: none

Mr. Febiger inquired with the Agent as to this exceeding the storm water and the Agent stated no that is not the case.   The Agent noted that submissions are to in by next Wednesday.

MOTION:  Mr. Socolow moves to continue the matter until 11/15/06 7:05 PM

SECOND:  Mr. Gulla                VOTE: 6-0 all in favor

 

 

137 BRAY STREET (Map 247 Lot 2)    New

Cal McCarthy to replace septic system.

John Judd  Gateway Consulting, for the applicant.

13,000 sq. ft lot surrounded by Wetlands.

Mr. Schenk noted that he is employed by the Health Dept but has had no exposure regarding this particular issue.

The site plan was reviewed by the Commission with variances listed on the plan.

Upgrade:  Pre treatment, 24 ft. closest point to the leaching field.  78 ft to the well.

Erosion control would surround the project.

The existing system is tank to cesspool. 

Ms. Ryder noted that very detailed constructions details are needed.

She further noted that this should be a tight tank but waiting to hear information from the Board of Health.  It was further asked if a retaining wall would be in place.  Mr. Judd noted that it would in fact be around the leaching field.   3 ½ ft. off grade.  Infiltrator with plastic chambers.

Ms. Ryder stated that the wall should be built first but that may not be possible given such a tight area.

She further stated that a sequence for the bulldozer driver is needed in relation to the erosion control and specifications regarding the wall.

Mr. Febiger noted a Spruce tree (24 inches) 10 ft. away.  Mr. Judd stated the intent for the tree to remain with access between the tree and the property line.

Mr. Schenk inquired with Mr. Judd as to whether or not there was room for the backhoe operator and Mr. Judd stated there was approx. 18 ft on the side.  Mr. Schenk noted that it should be a condition that the tree stays with Mr. Febiger stating that excavation would be done on both sides of the tree.

Mr. Schenk noted the mortality clause for the tree is 2 yrs. 

Mr. Socolow noted that the tree should thrive in the new system.

PUBLIC COMMENT:  Closed

Ms. Ryder noted she had no issues with the project.  The construction sequence was noted as well the cross section of the wall. 

MOTION:  Ms. Steele moves to continue the matter until 11/15/06 7:05 PM

SECOND:  Mr. Febiger               VOTE:  6-0 all in favor

 

19 DOLLIVERS NECK DRIVE (Map 201 Lot 65)    New

An abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation submitted by Dollivers Neck Realty Trust

Mr. Schenk – recused

Mr. Manuell present for the applicant.

He presented a plan and old photographs to the Commission.

Mr. Manuell stated the challenge with the project is the resource areas on site.

 He further stated that the area is lacking in vegetation except for the grasses. 

Coastal bank where topography becomes flatter, 4-1.

 

 

This is all noted on the plan.  He noted to the Commission that a salt marsh is on the other side of the road.  He stated he is aware of the fact that there is pre dated fill re: regulations.  He further told the Commission that there is noticeable change in vegetation to the west of Dollivers Neck Dr., such as an upland plant community, Queen Anne’s Lace, etc.  Tirell (sp) was found in the salt marsh.

Also found, was a line of distinct change in vegetation.  There is a rock that sticks out 3 ft. from the water and that elevation matched the upland grasses and tirell.   Using micro topography and identifying grasses somewhere in the middle is a vegetative Wetland boundary. 

100 yr. flood elevation: 9 This plots along the edge of the old fill.  Water has come up higher than FEMA stated.

Jim Caulkett, Harbormaster: His recollection is that flooding has come up to the garage.

9.4 and 9.8 noted on the plan.

It was advised that the Wetland boundary is to be determined and submit a Request for Letter Permit for soil test pit.    A 16 noted on the site plan for test pit.

Ms. Ryder stated she agreed with most of the delineation.  She stated that there is so much fill on both sides of the road.  It was noted that left west, driftwood burned into the grasses. 

5 to 10 ft of roadway not 20 ft.

This plan is waiting feedback from Dave Sargent, Shellfish Constable.

It was undetermined as to whether the soils are hydric vegetation and difficult to tell the Wetland area.

It was further noted that a recommendation for approval of delineation cannot be done because of too many unknowns. 

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Alicia Torrenzi – Ms. Torenzzi stated that water goes close to the road and sometimes up to the road.  She feels the area is conducive to natural Wetlands, vegetation and water fowl.  She further stated that the photo does not accurately portray the area in its current state.  Chunks of marsh are falling in.

The Agent noted that the stream through the salt marsh is tidal.

Mr. Golden stated that the tidal stream runs with every tide and DEP speaks to the streams.  We need to know what is high water mark and what is riverfront.

CLOSED

Mr. Febiger inquired as to the delineation on file for the property next to this.

Mr. Wolff stated that the stamped plan is 1992.  Mean high water mark listed as 10 on plan.

Mr. Gulla inquired as to the area to the east being a beach and Mr. Manuell stated it is in fact beach.

Ms. Ryder noted that as a problem combination as in heavy storms this area is subject to wave action and FEMA flood zones are shown.  The Agent further noted there being an authorization of test pits and the next step is to define delineation.

Test Pits Location:  1 ocean side (east)

                                1 near A16 on map between A17, A13 & A15.

Mr. Febiger asked the Commission to approve a letter permit

MOTION:  Mr. Anderson

SECOND:  Ms. Steele              VOTE: 5-0 all in favor

 

 

Re opening of   PUBLIC COMMENT

Bruce Campbell spoke in regards to erosion.  During the storm of 1978 the building on the property with a boat inside was carried down the river with quite a bit of erosion.

MOTION: Mr. Gulla moves to continue the matter until 12/6/06 7:30

SECOND: Mr. Socolow             VOTE:  5-0 all in favor

 

6 WATERSIDE LANE (Map 204 Lot 38)

6 Waterside Lane Trust to construct a barn.  (off Western Ave)

Mr. Manuell representing the applicant states this is an unusual application as this is a vacant piece of land on the water side.  Zoning restraints are a consideration as the location of the barn is only 2 ft. away from the drainage swale.  It was stated that the property may be at risk.

The Wetland system originates just off site.  This begins as swale and *missing info*, contributes to this point then broadens out.

Flagged A1, A12 and B1, B9.

An intermittent stream drainage channel is noted on the plan in Purple.

Proposed on site:  construct a barn, possibly to be converted into living space, small pea stone access driveway with minimum disturbance with the work to be enclosed by siltation fence.

30 ft. from the front of the structure, from the property line, 2 ft from the Wetland

Slab on grade, not a full cellar.

To minimize the amount of excavation, monitors will be on site for the site clearing and excavation.

Being so close this work may impact some of the Wetland.  It was suggested the figure of 250 sq. ft. of impact to be restored at the same elevation and to restore in place.

Further discussion was had regarding the Wetland replication as well as the bank and flow capacity.

Hand tools if necessary as well as competent personnel.

An area for a dumpster will be provided as well as re watering corral, if need be to de water foundation trenches.  Ms. Ryder noted that the Notice of Intent is not complete.  Further, A 11 on the plan is shown as a barn but as soon as water and sewer come in this could become a single family home.  She asked if this property was owned in common with any other lots. 

Also noted were: B1D and E3 not being complete.  The stream is noted as being a drainage ditch.

The Notice of Intent is not signed by the owner.  Noted on the plan, for the Commission should be the

longevity impact of a single family home.   # 40171 on the plan, the Wetland is substantially larger than on the current plan.  US Topo. -  intermittent and primary stream.