During a recent town meeting, community members raised significant concerns regarding gas leaks and environmental impacts in the area, particularly along Route 1. Katie Veil Rizzo, a town meeting member from District 2, highlighted the presence of three known gas leaks that have remained unfixed for four to six years. She emphasized that while these leaks may not pose an immediate threat, they represent a long-standing issue that requires attention.

Rizzo also criticized the potential for rezoning a property that was originally residential, cautioning that businesses should not assume they can influence the town's zoning decisions to suit their needs. She expressed concerns about the environmental implications of clear-cutting trees along Route 1, noting that such actions would exacerbate the heat island effect in the area, leading to increased temperatures and decreased air quality.

Another resident, James Drinksdahl, contributed to the discussion by questioning the efficiency of land use in the vicinity. He pointed out that a large parking lot owned by a local business owner, Mr. Siegel, is rarely full and suggested that it could be better utilized for community needs rather than developing new properties.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to addressing environmental issues and the importance of thoughtful planning in local development.