Residents of the Scusett Street neighborhood shared sharp criticisms of a proposed commercial battery storage facility on Monday night, fearing the installation of several large metal containers would mar the residential character of the area. Palmer Management Corporation is seeking site plan approval for 48 Scusett Street to install six battery energy storage units, two transformers, and four utility poles on an 8.5-acre lot currently occupied by the Knights of Columbus and Southshore Realtors.

James Garfield of Morris Engineering explained that the units would be situated on graded gravel and enclosed by an eight-foot security fence. However, neighbors focused on the aesthetic and property value impacts of the proposal. When Member Daniel Taylor asked for a description of the equipment, Lindsay Dean of Palmer Management Corp. replied, They look like six shipping containers. Resident Kelly Holland told the Board that the existing vegetation is not as dense as developers described, noting that the units would be clearly visible from her yard.

Board members raised technical and financial concerns regarding the project's long-term presence. Chair Andrew Wandell inquired about the plan for the end of the facility's lifespan, noting that a cash bond for decommissioning is required before an occupancy permit can be issued. Lindsay Dean clarified that the project will be decommissioned as part of the startup process, with manufacturers taking units back for recycling. Peer reviewer Deb Keller and Deputy Fire Chief Jim emphasized the need for proper fire safety access, with the Fire Department focusing on protecting surrounding homes on Shipyard Lane. Motion Made by A. Wandell to continue the public hearing until September 22nd. Motion Passed (6-0).

The Board also reviewed plans for a new four-lot single-family subdivision at 145 Washington Street. Eric Shoemaker of McKenzie Engineering Group proposed a 420-foot roadway with a cul-de-sac, but requested a waiver to install a sidewalk on only one side of the street to minimize environmental disturbance. Member Stephan Roundtree questioned the design, asking, Is the sidewalk being on only one side? In response to the waiver request, Chair Wandell suggested the developer provide a donation to the town’s sidewalk fund to offset the impact. Engineering concerns were also raised by Deb Keller, who flagged a potential conflict with pipe cover depth, noting the plan proposed only 1.5 feet of cover compared to the town’s three-foot standard. Motion Made by A. Wandell to continue subdivision hearings for 145 Washington Street and 0 Misty Meadow Road to October 6th. Motion Passed (6-0).

In a move to align local regulations with state mandates, the Board moved forward with a zoning bylaw amendment related to "Ali’s Law." Animal Control Officer Sabrina explained that the amendment creates a new licensing and annual inspection process for pet grooming, training, and daycare facilities. The state has implemented Ali’s Law to increase safety at kennels and daycare facilities... we need to develop this licensing program, Sabrina stated. Chair Wandell clarified that the change would replace "hobby kennels" with "personal kennels," requiring all such facilities to be licensed regardless of their zoning district. Motion Made by D. Taylor to recommend the approval of the amendment to the Town Meeting warrant. Motion Passed (6-0).

Finally, the Board granted a minor modification for the fire substation project at 0 Monroe Street. David Newhall of Crocker Design Group explained that a corrected survey revealed the existing property line on previously approved plans was inaccurate. We have a corrected survey and shifted some work and the septic reserve area to ensure everything is on our property, Newhall said. To save on administrative costs, the Board followed a suggestion from Deb Keller to record only the revised existing conditions plan. Motion Made by A. Wandell for a minor modification to the existing site plan SP-225. Motion Passed (5-0) with members Scott Martino, Alysha Siciliano-Perry, and Heather Tremblay joining in the unanimous roll call support.