meeting. Among the matters discussed was a proposal for eight new residential lots off
Harugari Street. PHOTO BY HANNAH MORIN
ATHOL – At its Aug. 6 meeting, the Board of Planning and Community Development discussed ongoing subdivision plans off Harugari Street.
The project, presented by Cal-Mek Enterprises, aims to create eight new residential building lots.
Chris Stoddard presented the subdivision plan and updated the board on fire safety measures. He explained that after consulting fire suppression companies, they decided to install private wells on each property, along with individual fire suppression units.
Stoddard requested a waiver from the requirement to connect to town water. He explained that the subdivision would connect to the existing sewer main extension on Oakland Avenue. The plan involves running the sewer line along Oakland Avenue, then through an easement behind two of the lots for the subdivision before extending into a cul-de-sac.
Small supported the plan’s sewer design noting, “It’s easier for the sewer to flow downhill than pumping the water up.”
Stoddard also requested a waiver from the rule requiring the location of all features within 100 feet of the property, stating, “I did the houses along the abiding properties, but the requirement says locate all large trees and there’s a lot in the area.”
The board unanimously approved waivers for on-site wells and exemptions from tree counting within 100 feet. They also discussed the importance of clear boundary markers and GPS coordinates to mark conservation land adjacent to the subdivision, ensuring future monitoring and property management.
The board voted to extend the public hearing for the subdivision plan to Sept. 3 and the full project extension to Sept. 11, allowing additional time for review and feedback.
Concerns about marijuana social use regulations and zoning adjustments were also raised at the meeting. Board member Aimee Hanson expressed concerns about community impact, particularly regarding the youth and exposure. The board plans to monitor state regulations and prepare for upcoming town meetings addressing these and other zoning issues.