Construction of a new cold storage barn at 163 Monroe Street will proceed with specific environmental safeguards following a unanimous decision by the Pembroke Conservation Commission. The project, brought forward by applicant Sharan, involves a structure situated near the 100-foot wetland buffer zone, specifically "kissing" the corner of the protected area by approximately 10 feet.

Sharan detailed the project’s layout during the hearing, explaining that the barn will sit adjacent to an existing garage on previously disturbed land. We're looking to build a cold storage barn kind of adjacent to our existing garage, he told the board. Andrew had advised me ahead of time to put on the plan to install like a silt sock type barrier and the importance of keeping the soil during the footing excavation intact.

The board's review centered on the topography of the site and the potential for sedimentation. The Chair noted that while the project technically sits 12 feet into the Bordering Vegetated Wetland (BVW), the actual terrain appeared relatively dry and flat. Well, you're 12 feet into the BVW, which is kind of odd because it's on flat ground, the Chair observed. I'm not sure if those are wetlands after I looked at it again. But anyway, you're just kissing the cornering about 10 feet. He further confirmed that a 10-inch silt sock would be sufficient for erosion control, given that the staging area remains outside the BVW.

Board member Gino raised questions regarding the driveway surface, noting a potential discrepancy between the submitted site plan and digital mapping tools. Sharan clarified that the driveway surrounding the site is primarily gravel or "hard pack," though some concrete exists directly in front of the existing garage. He described the driveway as "loose" and prone to washing in the springtime. Gino emphasized the necessity of managing water flow, stating, It seems like it's not really in an impacted area of wetlands, but you always have to obviously make sure your water runoff is contained somewhat or just filters gracefully wherever it's going to go.

Mr. Wal expressed his satisfaction with the presentation and the visual evidence provided by the applicant, noting that the pictures are always good, you know. Following the discussion, the board moved to finalize the application. Motion Made by Gino to issue a Negative 3 Determination, requiring the project be built per the narrative and plans. Motion Passed (3-0). Before concluding the hearing, the Chair instructed the applicant to call for an inspection once the sediment controls are installed and reminded him of the 10-business-day appeal window.

In other business, the board addressed administrative matters. Motion Made by [Chair] to accept the minutes of the January 8th meeting. Motion Passed (3-0). No residents stepped forward during the public comment portion of the evening, leading the board to conclude the session.