The Falmouth Conservation Commission meeting on October 16, 2024, focused on the unauthorized installation of patios at a residential property, raising significant concerns about environmental compliance and safety. The commission discussed the need for restoration and mitigation efforts following the removal of these patios, which were placed in areas designated for environmental protection.

During the meeting, property owner Jojan Grasso, represented by his son David, expressed regret over the installation of the patios, citing safety concerns for his elderly wife who had previously suffered an injury on the grassy areas. Grasso acknowledged that the patios were installed without proper authorization and indicated a willingness to work with the commission to find a solution, including potentially replacing the patios with environmentally friendly materials.

Commission members expressed frustration over the situation, noting that the installation of the patios violated previous agreements made during the approval of a pool project. The commission emphasized the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and the need for a Notice of Intent (NOI) to be filed for any future modifications to the property.

The commission is considering issuing an enforcement order requiring the immediate removal of the patios and the filing of an NOI to restore the affected mitigation areas. Members highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue, as the current state of the property shows significant disruption to the previously established environmental protections.

In conclusion, the commission aims to ensure compliance with environmental standards while addressing the safety concerns raised by the property owners. The next steps will involve the filing of necessary documentation and the development of a restoration plan to mitigate the impact of the unauthorized installations.