08/10/2023 CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes

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et cetera). In addition, the applicant is proposing to upgrade the septic to a denitrifying system. Ms. Copeland sought clarification that the lawn and structures will be replaced with native species – a list of species being proposed is attached to the plan. In response to Mr. Colombo, the applicant explained the removal/planting process (Japanese Knotweed) is a three-year process for new plants. Ms. Zollo liked the diversity of native plants but wanted the applicant to work with staff on the planting’s placement. The applicant was amenable to such a condition but indicated that the desire was for flowering plants to be closer to the pool. However, most of the plantings on the coastal bank will be grass. In response to Ms. Godfrey, the applicant noted the stairs on the bank will be fixed instead of removable. Mr. Kent indicated the stair removal was merely a recommendation. The applicant indicated that the stairs are buried or exposed depending on storm action. Ms. Zollo noted that if the stairs were damaged that could be taken up by the Commission later for removable pieces. Mr. Colombo noted although the septic was not within the Commission’s purview, he was curious if the BOH was requiring nutrient calculations. The applicant has not filed with the BOH but noted it would comply with denitrification requirements. Mr. Kent sought clarification on whether the hedge row would be native plantings – being removed. Mr. Kent made the following comments: most of the proposed work is within the buffer zone located within pre- disturbed areas (hardscape, decks, pool, lawn) with the proposed septic upgrade outside of the coastal bank buffer zone. The unauthorized secondary pathway is starting to grow back in (with invasive Japanese knotweed). The homeowner was issued a fine for that violation and has paid it. Mr. McManus met with a wetland consultant hired by the owner to draft an invasive species eradication plan and that is in progress. The eroded area of the bank has been fully stabilized and planted with beach grass. The stairway down coastal bank meets performance standards for coastal bank and regulation 29 (buffer zones/buffer strips). Mr. Kent recommended that the bottom portion of stairs be removable during the winter off season to prevent storm damage (not a requirement but strongly recommended). Mr. Kent recommended a close and issue with condition of submission of signed three-year mitigation monitoring and maintenance agreement with a qualified professional, condition of pool draw down through pump truck, and no draining of pool water into wetland resource area at any time. Mr. Cook made a motion to close and issue with the following conditions: submission of signed three-year mitigation monitoring and maintenance agreement with a qualified professional, condition of pool draw down through pump truck, and no draining of pool water into wetland resource area at any time and meeting with staff on the placement/selection of plantings which was seconded by Ms. Zollo. Roll Call Vote: Steven Cook (Yes) Alexandra Zollo (Yes) Erin Copeland (Yes) Sandra Godfrey (Yes) Paul Colombo (Yes) 5 – 0 (unanimous) 6:06 45 Buccaneer Road, Kristopher Houle. Proposed re-construction of front deck, stairs, RDA walkway and back patio, repair of existing retaining wall with improvements in site drainage, driveway re-pave and expansion with associated landscaping. Representative: Self (Owner of Record: Michael F. & Carol A. Houle) (continued from 6/29 & 7/13) \[Applicant needs additional time to prepare\] th Request for a continuance September 7 @ 6:00 pm.