Chairman: Richard Baker
Members Present: Bill Manter, Laurie Levy, Julia Hucknall
Members Absent: Kim Ames
Recorder: Melanie Rich
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m.
Ms. Levy made a motion to approve the March 7, 2011 Meeting Minutes and March 29, 2011 Meeting Minutes as amended; Ms. Hucknall seconded the motion. All in favor; none opposed; motion approved.
Stiles Crossing Streets – Mr. Baker updated the members on the present status of the Stiles Crossing streets. A letter was sent to the Selectmen regarding the warrant article for acceptance of the roadways. Mr. Baker also contacted Mike Andrade to follow-up with Cabco, and he contacted the Town Administrator asking to authorize town counsel to contact Cheryl Morrill to resolve remaining legal issues.
General Interest Items:
1. Mr. Baker informed the members that there is the possibility of a new development in the Route 140/Sewall Street section of town. Phoenix Communications (a maker of fiber optic equipment for telecommunications) has interest in moving their light manufacturing facility to Boylston. Tom Wall, Construction Manager, has met with the Building Inspector. In preparation of them coming before the Board, Mr. Baker asked the members to review the new Rt. 140 zoning bylaws. Because of wellhead protection, a special permit may be required. The application process could possibly be completed within 2-3 months. Ms. Hucknall was concerned with traffic issues on Sewall Street and would like to see a traffic light. Mr. Baker stated that the traffic count on
Route 140 is low and probably wouldn't warrant a signal. Also, it would be very costly without state funding. Two problems the project could potentially improve would be: (1) the drainage problem of the lot; and (2) expediting the traffic improvements presently required for Compass Pointe. There is the possibility of creating a right turn lane, and the developer might be willing to grant an easement to the town to allow its construction. The building would be in the flexible business development zone. A site plan approval will be required, and possibly a special permit.
2. Mr. Manter spoke with Jeff Brodsky about becoming a member of the board. He was asked to attend this evening but was unavailable. Mr. Manter will follow-up.
3. The Board set the next Planning Board meeting be for May 9th, due to the town meeting on May 2nd.
4. Mr. Baker advised the members they need to be prepared to answer questions about the zoning articles at town meeting.
5. Given the outstanding issues, the Board is not in a position to recommend acceptance of the Stiles roadways at this time. Mr. Baker suggested that the Board hold a special meeting prior to Town Meeting to assess last-minute progress and to decide its recommendation. He suggested the Board wait at least two weeks to see what actions are taken. Mr. Baker will set a meeting date for some time during the last week of April and inform members by Email. He also reminded the members that Email messages should be limited to administrative matters only.
Subdivision Rules – The Board started the long process of revising the Subdivision Rules two years ago. The primary motivation was a need to enact new stormwater regulations, for which the Conservation Commission now has authority. Major revisions to the Rules were drafted by a consultant. In reviewing the draft, the Board previously drafted additional changes with respect to fire safety, low impact development, and eliminating inconsistencies and typographical errors. The process is to hold a public hearing for public comment, vote, and file with the land court. Subdivision rules do not need to go to Town Meeting. The final document should be reviewed by Mike Andrade. Mr. Baker will provide the members with the latest marked up copy.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Meeting Materials:
1. March 31, 2011 Mirick O’Connell Letter to Cheryl Morrill re Stiles Crossing Subdivision.
2. April 2, 2011 Planning Board Letter to Boylston Board of Selectmen re Stiles Crossing Street Acceptance.
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