Key Notes from the Conservation Commission (ConCom), August 22, 2023, Hybrid

Howard Abrams, Beachwood, was on the agenda for work on a leaking pipe. Sally Underwood Miller advised him that an emergency work permit might be required to do the work. No discussion as Abrams not present.

Bryan Siter, Forsythe Land Management, was present on behalf of 21 Lakeview Drive and its amended submission. They will need to extend and modify their request and a site visit will follow.

11 Rattlesnake Road recently sold, and a septic field, driveway, pool, and house are proposed. Abutters Arthur Dutil, Stan Piatchek, and across-the-street neighbors, John Hart, and Sally Underwood Miller, spoke. The concern is the wetness of the property. There is wet land, possible underground streams, and a part of, or run off from, Kampoosa Bog.

The question is — is it buildable? Is there a place for the septic field? Does it perc?

A representative from Greylock Design, on behalf of the owners, pushed back. He said it is a 7-acre lot and the coverage of all buildings — roadbed, pool, and house - was less than 6 - 10,000 sq. ft. — he characterized that as a "small impact" on the land.

ConCom determined to hire an expert to evaluate the soil and then follow with a site visit.

The Chair complimented the consultant to ConCom for the letter he wrote the Railroad company asked to clear the old railroad ties. It was answered immediately. The RR company said they were in talks with Mass Department of Transportation (DOT). Chair suggested they allow them to work it out and withhold the enforcement order (which would start the cock on fines/penalties).

The consultant said ConCom is the regulatory agency and should continue to apply proper pressure in a letter if not an immediate enforcement order.

Editor's note: In full disclosure, I once owned that 7-acre plot plus the 6 adjoining acres. I was told that particular 7 acres were unbuildable due to wetlands and underground streams. The ConCom Chair called it "a teapot — put in a shovel and hit water." That was 40 years ago; I have no current knowledge.

Phil Deely recognizes Lila and Mary Berle for a lifetime of exemplary service at Laurel Hill Day.