Brewster, Massachusetts Development News

Brewster Boards Review Stormwater Management, Streamline Permitting Process, and Approve Development Plans

The Planning Board and Conservation Commission jointly discussed and evaluated the town's stormwater management permit program. They reviewed draft amendments to Chapter 272, the stormwater management bylaw, and accompanying regulations. Key discussions included how the Conservation Commission reviews stormwater permits, proposing alternatives such as incorporating stormwater permits into the order of conditions or exempting them entirely if equivalent standards are met. The boards also considered changes to permit thresholds, the role of the Building Commissioner in erosion control, and the potential for increased authority around ponds. Ultimately, the boards leaned towards eliminating the separate stormwater permit process (Option 2), integrating stormwater standards into the order of conditions for greater efficiency and cost savings for applicants, while ensuring no reduction in environmental protection. The meeting also addressed specific development proposals, including an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for 155 and 169 Underpass Road and a special permit and site plan review for a new commercial development at 169 Underpass Road, which included discussions on building use, parking, landscaping, and signage.