6/4/2018 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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9 Board of Selectman Minutes June 4, 2018 Public Hearing: Aquaculture Grant—Thomas F. Smith, Great River Oyster Company: (continued) To ensure the operation would not affect water quality, it was suggested the applicant consider using the Great River Boat Ramp. The new ramp is permitted under Chapter 91 to ensure compliance with the Wetlands Protection Act. It was disclosed the Board of Selectmen has received several letters in their informational package in objection to this project. DNR Director York indicated the Town is planting quahogs in the subject area, and does not have plans to use the area planned for the aquaculture grant. This site is not naturally productive. However, it is an appropriate location for oysters and an appropriate location for an aquaculture grant. In discussing this project Mr. York recommended the applicant grow oysters on the bottom. This method is beneficial to assist with water quality, but it will not remove the muck. Oysters only filter plankton out of the water. Jason White of Newton, MA, a family friend of the Southwick's who own approximately 20 properties on Monomoscoy Island read aloud a letter from Romma Southwick dated June 4, 2018 objecting strongly to this project. David Smith a resident of 2 Maple Street disclosed he is a relative of the applicants. In his opinion, this project is a win-win for the Town to increase tax revenue and to clean-up the river at no additional cost to the town. It was noted the Town of Mashpee would not be receiving any tax benefit other than the annual $50 license fee which is set by state law. The applicant would be leasing property for the facility in the Town of Falmouth. The proposed location of the business is 30 Martin Road, Falmouth. The operation of the business is described as 226 Monomoscoy Road, a residential site location. The Board of Selectmen agreed to consult Town Counsel with respect to the operation of a commercial business at the subject property as it relates to the non-conforming use and the Chapter 91 license issue. A resident of 306 Monomoscoy Road asked if the oyster farm would be grown on the bottom if it would it impact the existing quahogs in the muck, and how long it would take to farm at this location. John Wilson of 202 Monomoscoy indicated he enjoys the community and there is no need for increased traffic. Mr. Wilson stated he is opposed to the proposal and based on Mr. Smith's track record, there may be a mess out in the water and if Mr. Smith has broken the rules in the past, he may continue to do SO. Elliot Schneider a resident of 55 Amy Brown Road stated that he understands the neighbor's concerns. There is no navigation difficulty with the oyster propagation area and he is in favor of anything that is going to clean up the water.