During a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposed development project that raised concerns regarding fire access and its proximity to an industrial area. Commissioner Anders initiated the dialogue by referencing previous issues related to fire access and access from Neely Street. The project’s representative, Adam Baugh, confirmed that these concerns had been addressed, detailing a secondary emergency access route that would connect through town-owned property and utilize Phoenix Avenue for egress.

Baugh emphasized that the design modifications, guided by staff recommendations, had successfully resolved the fire access issues, allowing for a favorable recommendation for project approval. The meeting also included a public comment segment where local resident Keith Bridal expressed strong opposition to the project, arguing that placing apartments adjacent to an industrial site would lead to noise disturbances and quality of life issues for future residents. He likened the situation to placing homes next to a dairy farm, highlighting the impracticality of such a development without adequate mitigation measures.

The meeting concluded without further public comments or questions directed at the applicant, leading to a motion for approval of the project. The discussions underscored the ongoing tension between development and community concerns, particularly regarding the integration of residential spaces within industrial zones.