Chairman: Richard Baker
Members Present: Bill Manter, Laurie Levy, Julia Hucknall, Kim Ames (8:15 p.m. arrival)
Members Absent: None
Recorder: Melanie Rich
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Manter made a motion to approve the September 7, 2010 Meeting Minutes as amended; Ms. Levy seconded the motion. All in favor; none opposed; motion approved.
James Vogel (Brigham Woods Subdivision) – Mr. Baker gave the Members a synopsis of the subdivision off Green Street. Due to sight distance issues, the original plan approval required that the developer put up traffic signs to alert motorists of the subdivision street. The plan was subsequently amended, eliminating one lot and accessing the remaining two lots by a shared driveway. The Board agreed to waive the requirement for the traffic signs and a street sign if a marker indicating the street addresses were installed. The developer, Mr. Vogel, is now requesting a release of the bond. A site visit report from Michael Andrade (Graves Engineering) on September 24th noted that the signs originally required by the plan were not in place but that construction was
complete. Mr. Vogel agreed to erect a 4 x 4 marker to designate the subdivision as recommended by Don Parker. Ms. Levy made a motion to instruct the treasurer to release all funds in excess of $500; Mr. Manter seconded; all in favor; none opposed. Mr. Baker will notify the Treasurer in writing of the Board's action.
Ansari Builders (new owner of Longley Hill Subdivision) – Farooq Ansari attended to explain that he was the highest bidder on the defunct subdivision, and he asked for guidance on the steps needed for him to proceed with construction. He has not closed on the sale yet, but has received a 30-day extension. Mr. Baker reviewed the history of the project, and told him a bond must be in place before any work can begin. Mr. Ansari said he received a copy of the Order of Conditions from the Conservation Commission, and Dennis Costello (BOH) contacted him with details on the septic systems. He has also spoken with the Building Inspector who needs to inspect the structures. The plumbing and electrical was completed. The well permits have expired. Per the previously
developer’s request, the current bond estimate calls for a temporary cul-de-sac and includes only four house lots. Those lots were released under the old plan which had subsequently lapsed but was later renewed.
Mr. Ansari would like the Board to eliminate the requirement for the temporary cul-de-sac, since he plans to finish the entire road. Mr. Baker asked if he was willing to rough in the road to where it connects to Stiles Road as soon as possible in order for the highway department to plow Stiles Road this winter. He agreed. Regarding the cul-de-sac, the Board would require at the least that the street be partially paved with a turnaround for emergency vehicles. Mr. Ansari asked what bond options were acceptable and was told it could be in the form of a cash deposit, surety bond, tri-party agreement, or letter of credit. Mr. Baker said if the bond was posted as is, he could start work. Mr. Ansari felt the $263,692 bond estimate was too high and said he could not do that. Mr. Baker
made him aware that there are also sight distance improvements required as part of the plan, which the previous developer never completed.
Mr. Ansari requested the Board reduce the bond estimate to $230,000 by removing the associated costs for the temporary cul-de-sac. He said he is not looking to bond the entire road. Mr. Baker said he was uncomfortable with reducing the bond without speaking with Graves Engineering. Mr. Ansari explained that he could create a “T” section as he continues to grub out the road to Stiles Road. Again, he said he would like the bond to be more manageable so he can begin work and sell the partially-constructed houses, which he is currently marketing. Mr. Ansari suggested making a decision pending contact with Michael Andrade. He said that currently there are two banks interested, and he will know within a month about financing. Mr. Manter made a motion that in consideration of
the developer's agreement to build a “T” section for emergency vehicle turnaround and to rough out immediately the intersection of Stiles Road and the subdivision street, the Board reduce the bond amount to $230,000 with the condition that an opinion be requested and a favorable response received from Graves Engineering within 14 days. Ms. Levy seconded; all in favor; none opposed; motion carries. Mr. Baker will contact Mike Andrade. Mr. Ansari was informed that there is a revolving account for engineering costs and he agreed to deposit $2,500 when he acquires ownership of the property.
Brooke Road, LLC – ANR Plan (Lot 5B Brooke Road) – Kim Ames recused herself from the deliberations and vote. After a brief discussion, Mr. Baker suggested the following findings: the application refers to the “Plan of Property Surveyed for Derek P. Clark, Brooke Road & Mill Road in Boylston, Massachusetts”; it is located in the Residential Zoning District; all lots shown have in excess of 150 feet of frontage and in excess of 30,000 square feet of area. Mr. Manter motioned to accept the findings, approve the ANR plan, and authorize the Clerk to endorse; Ms. Levy seconded; all in favor; none opposed.
Environmental Notification Form regarding Tahanto School Project – The plan was received as an informational courtesy.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Meeting Materials:
1. ANR Application and Plan filed in Planning Board Office ("Brooke & Mill Road")
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