The Rochester Conservation Commission gave its approval for two projects within a buffer zone surrounding vegetated wetlands to move forward.
The first was a Request of Determination of Applicability filed by Harris Real Estate Boston, LLC for property located at 45 Kings Highway, Rochester. The applicant, represented by Brian Grady of G.A.F. Engineering, Inc., proposed to raze the existing dwelling on the property, including removal of the existing septic system, driveway, and well. This work is proposed within the 100-foot buffer zone to a bordering vegetated wetland and isolated vegetated wetland.
The Commission granted approval for the proposal, provided that the board contacts the engineer once the well is closed to ensure all wiring and ancillary structures are removed and the well properly closed.
The second request heard by the commission was for a RDA filed by Bill LaPierre for property located at his home on 46 Paradise Lane. LaPierre, who was represented by Rob Ferreira of Infinity Landscape and Construction, proposed to replace a section of his patio within the 100-foot buffer zone of an isolated vegetated wetland protected under the Wetlands Protection Act.
In addition to the new section of patio, Ferreira said he recommended that LaPierre remove some existing trees that fall up to 40 feet within the buffer zone.
“We just want to remove some trees within the buffer zone to protect the homeowner’s property. The trees were there when the home was built, but they’ve gotten too big,” Ferreira said.
The commission granted approval for this project, but asked that rather than remove the stumps of the trees, they just grind them down. Additionally, Conservation Agent Laurell Farinon asked that she be notified when the project is done.
Discussion on the Notice of Intent filed by Gloria Doviak regarding her proposal to raze an existing dwelling and construct a new one within the 100-foot buffer zone surrounding the wetlands at 356 Snow’s Pond Road was continued and will be discussed at the October 7 meeting.
In other business, Farinon discussed the possibility of putting the new “Explore Rochester” trail guides into a digital format that would be available for residents on the town’s website. This would create a living document that could be consistently updated with new information on the trails.
The next Rochester Conservation Commission meeting will be held in the Town Hall meeting room on September 16 at 7:00 pm.
By Camden Gaspar
