John McEn expressed his lack of awareness regarding the Wetlands Protection Act and stated that he had not intended to violate any regulations. He presented his case, indicating that no work had been done within 100 feet of the wetlands, although he acknowledged being within the 50-foot buffer. Visual aids comparing the property from 2019 to 2024 were referenced to illustrate the changes made. The commissioners highlighted the significant work done since 2019 and discussed the implications in relation to the enforcement order.

The commissioners emphasized the need for a detailed restoration plan that would include adequate vegetation with an appropriate wetland seed mix, possibly supplemented by shrubs or blueberries. They stressed the necessity of adhering to guidelines set forth by the Wetlands Protection Act. A commissioner noted the importance of a wetland specialist to assess the property and guide the restoration process. John McEn expressed his willingness to cooperate, including assisting with mowing efforts on adjacent trails and planting blueberry bushes.

The commission also agreed to postpone issuing additional tickets until September 10, allowing John McEn time to develop the restoration plan, which must be drawn up with an engineer’s guidance to ensure compliance with wetland resource regulations.

The meeting also addressed the winter drawdown at Lake Banaki, with a member of the Forge Pond Lake Committee reporting an unsuccessful drawdown due to warm weather and rain, which caused the water levels to rise again by early April. The member expressed concern about the increased presence of invasive plants, noting it was the worst they had seen. The commissioners discussed mechanisms involved in the drawdown, including the removal of stop logs to increase water outflow, and the challenges posed by continuous precipitation.

The discussion then turned to an engineering study aimed at improving flow through an outlet channel, analyzing hydrology and hydraulics to enhance outflow during drawdowns. The success of this initiative would depend on winter weather conditions, particularly freezing temperatures. The meeting also touched on the enforcement order for a property on Warren Street, where delays in securing an environmental engineer had hindered progress on a wetland restoration plan.

The commission opened a public hearing for a project at three Cottage Way, awaiting an official D number for the rebuilding of a gazebo and dock permit. The applicant, Jim, was present to discuss the project, but the commission could not close the hearing until the D number was received. They suggested Jim return for the next meeting to address all comments from the Environmental Protection Department (EPD).

A public hearing on Wing Cove Road followed, discussing the demolition and reconstruction of an existing house. The applicant provided details on existing and proposed square footage for the house and deck. The commission emphasized the need for clear documentation, including a breakdown of square footage and any necessary waivers, to ensure transparency and adherence to guidelines. They also expressed interest in understanding drainage systems and tree preservation measures related to the project.

A significant part of the meeting involved discussing a property modification regarding the 50-foot buffer zone. The commission debated the need for a waiver concerning proposed stairs and emphasized vegetating the area where demolition would occur. Concerns about stormwater management and the additional impervious surface area were raised, leading to a proposal for creating a separate drainage system to manage roof runoff.

The meeting also addressed a patio believed to have been installed without a permit. The commission considered re-evaluating the project holistically and discussed the importance of drainage systems and potential ecological benefits of robust planting plans. The conversation highlighted the need for a detailed comparison of the patio’s square footage against proposed plantings, emphasizing the importance of maintaining environmental integrity while allowing necessary construction and modifications.

The resignation of Cory Godfrey, who had worked for ten years with the Littleton Electric Light and Water Departments, was noted. Godfrey will take on a new role as a senior drinking water specialist at Cadmus. A commissioner suggested sending an email of thanks and well wishes on behalf of the commission, which received unanimous support.

The commission also discussed the Neog Hill Orchard project, expressing disappointment over the lack of progress and communication following the town meeting. Despite efforts to engage the community and gather input from local farmers, the board of selectmen did not hold the promised open meetings to discuss the town’s vision for the orchard. The future of the orchard remains uncertain, with the commissioner expressing hope for better communication moving forward.

Other updates included a report on King Street, where some erosion control measures were being implemented, and the naming of a newly acquired parcel of land as “Webster Conservation Land,” pending input from the Webster family. The management of Japanese Knotweed at Lakeshore was also discussed, considering the possibility of herbicide application to control the invasive species.