Conservation Commission Meeting

The Conservation Commission convened to consider several resource-area permit matters and administrative items. Key project discussions included an RDA for 29 Water Street proposing conversion of an existing brick mill into six condominium units; Commissioners and the Planning Director noted the property lies within the floodplain and riverfront buffer and indicated that an NOI (and Planning Board Special Permit review for floodplain work) is likely required, with a site visit recommended. The Commission also heard a large-scale NOI for 28 Haverhill Road (two residential buildings totaling 126 units) where DEP had raised Riverfront Analysis concerns; after discussing the proposed stormwater design and public concerns that the site drains to a tributary of Bailey's Pond, the Commission voted to require a stormwater peer review coordinated with the Planning Board and requested that the peer reviewer also evaluate wetlands impacts.

Other matters included a small residential addition at 30 Lake Attitash Road (roof infiltration proposed to capture runoff; Commissioners noted watershed protection concerns and scheduled a site visit), and enforcement/discussion about millings/asphalt in wetlands along Lions Mouth Road where consultants recommended hand removal of large pieces and temporary erosion controls while a long-term solution is developed. The Commission issued a Partial Certificate of Compliance for 101-107 Market Street (excluding outstanding plantings and invasive species work), reviewed invasive-species treatment plans for that site, and acknowledged the pending appointment of a new Commission member before City Council. An abutter raised concerns about increased runoff and snow storage at the Haverhill Road project site; the Commission directed peer review to address stormwater and wetlands issues raised.