Commission hears site-restoration updates for Breakneck Hill Farm dump, plus multiple active-site and staffing updates

Commission staff provided a series of updates on ongoing stewardship and active development sites at the Oct. 23 meeting.

On Breakneck Hill Farm dump restoration, staff said stewardship wants the meadow-restoration work completed to their satisfaction and that contractors and stewardship staff disagree on the meadow edge location; the commission has funds from strategic contributions and warrant articles to complete remaining work. Staff plans additional site visits with stewardship representatives and contractors to produce a restoration plan and a mowing schedule for the dump area to limit invasive spread.

Staff reported stabilization on the site has reached regulatory thresholds (staff referenced an 80% stabilization metric) though some open sun-exposed areas are sparse and will continue to regenerate next season. Gravel and silt-fence removal work are in progress; staff will verify the extent of gravel removal in coordination with stewardship and contractors.

Other active projects noted: a salt-storage shed at 200 Turnpike is moving forward; a contractor yard at 250 Turnpike has a pre-construction meeting next week; the previously approved garage at 26 (street name not specified) will begin once building permits are issued; and excavation has begun at a pool project at 13 Foley.

Staff also reported administrative progress: a vendor number for a fence lease agreement has been set up and an inventory of fence materials will be reconciled against contractor charges. The commission was notified that Mark Robodeau will start Monday as building commissioner and that Katie Berry has been appointed building administrator. Staff announced a special town meeting and a volunteer recognition breakfast to commissioners and said they had submitted a budget request.

Staff said the added building-department capacity should free conservation staff to advance projects that have been on the back burner.