Westport public meetings in 2024

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will close public hearings on two projects, hear two new public hearings for site plan modifications, and consider rescinding a subdivision approval. They will also discuss proposed zoning amendments for short-term rentals and accessory dwelling units.

• Close public hearing for 203 Mouse Mill Road (24-026SPA-MAJOR) and release consultant review balance
• Approve ANR request for 2-lot conservation easement at 0 Adamsville Road (24-041A)
• Major modification hearing for Burke’s V Twin motorcycle shop garage (24-017SPA-MAJ)
• Waiver request for gas installation location on Rosewood Lane (23-039C-MOD)
• Consider rescinding 9-lot subdivision approval at 0 Drift Road (23-031C)

The board continued the rescission hearing for the nine-lot Marcotte Drive subdivision to February 11, 2025, after extensive discussion about safety concerns and a proposed seven-lot alternative. The board also closed a public hearing and released consultant review balances for 203 Mouse Mill Road, approved an ANR endorsement for Westport Land Conservation Trust, continued the Burke's V Twin hearing to January 28, 2025, and approved a waiver for Rosewood Lane as-built plans.

• Closed public hearing and released consultant review balances for 203 Mouse Mill Road site plan (unanimous)
• Approved ANR endorsement for Westport Land Conservation Trust two-lot plan (unanimous)
• Continued Burke's V Twin public hearing to January 28, 2025 at 6:45 PM (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of as-built plan requirement for gas lines on Rosewood Lane (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on Rosewood Lane (unanimous)
• Continued Marcotte Drive rescission hearing to February 11, 2025 at 6:15 PM (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on three Notices of Intent (N.O.I.) for projects in or near buffer zones, including storage garages, a riverfront pier, and storage buildings with drainage plans. It will also consider a continuance for two metal storage buildings and a partial certificate of compliance.

• Jeffrey Reynolds – N.O.I. – 318 Gifford Road – Construct storage garage in buffer zone
• Lorrie Fernandes – N.O.I. – 108 Sylvia’s Lane – Construct fixed pier, gangway and float in riverfront area
• James Long – N.O.I. – 1180 American Legion Highway – Construct three storage buildings with drainage plan and retention basin in buffer zone
• Manny Lindo – R.D.A. – 922 State Road – Continuance for two metal storage buildings in buffer zone
• Michael Tzannes – 1 Nick’s Way – SE 80-2534 – Partial Certificate of Compliance

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will discuss and hear public notices for soil permits, septic system plans, and projects in buffer zones. It will also consider continuances, compliance certificates, and extensions for existing projects.

• Soil Permit: J R & Sons - #492 – 17 Sodom Road
• Septic Plans: Lee Desrosiers – 139 Donovan’s Lane; Gilbert Sousa/7566 Holdings LLC – 954 American Legion Highway
• Public Hearings: Chris Davis – 2 Munroe Street (single-family dwelling in buffer zone); Westport River Watershed Alliance – Cherry & Webb Beach (beach grass restoration); Laurie Goyette – 19 Beaulieu Street (sunroom addition in buffer zone); Manny Lindo – 922 State Road (metal storage buildings in buffer zone); Michael Ashley – 126 South Shore Road (driveway reconstruction and beach nourishment)
• Continuances: Carricorp – 73 Brookwood Dr.; John Paiva – 0 Register Ave
• Certificates/Extensions: Partial Certificate of Compliance (Michael Tzannes – 1 Nick’s Way); Certificate of Compliance (FHL Realty Tr. – 260 State Road); Extension (Jeffrey Bolton – 186 East Beach Road)

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will vote on affirming the Select Board’s appointment of Diya Wheeler as Assistant Planner. Two public hearings will discuss a four-lot single-family housing development at 245 Old Harbor Road and three storage buildings at 1180 American Legion Highway. The board will also receive updates on shared-use paths, culvert replacements, and budget planning.

• Vote on Assistant Planner appointment (Diya Wheeler)
• Public hearing on Little Compton Housing Trust development at 245 Old Harbor Road
• Public hearing on storage buildings at 1180 American Legion Highway
• Chapter 61A land release request for 533 Horseneck Road
• Executive session on pending litigation for Marcotte Drive subdivision

The Westport Planning Board approved a four-unit single-family housing development at 245 Old Harbor Road, proposed by the Little Compton Housing Trust, after granting several waivers. The board also recommended releasing Chapter 61A land at 533 Horseneck Road and continued a public hearing for a storage facility at 1180 American Legion Highway to January 14, 2025.

• Approved four-unit housing development at 245 Old Harbor Road with conditions (4-0)
• Granted five waivers for the housing development, including stormwater and road design (4-0 each)
• Recommended Select Board release right of first refusal on 533 Horseneck Road Chapter 61A land (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for storage buildings at 1180 American Legion Highway to January 14, 2025 (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will meet to discuss a septic plan hearing for Carricorp at 73 Brookwood Drive and issue certificates of compliance for three properties. No other substantive items are listed.

• Carricorp septic plan hearing at 73 Brookwood Drive
• Certificates of compliance issued for Gaby Rhame (5 Bluebird Lane), Stanley Sylvia (28 Second Street), and Christy Sousa (169 Robert Street)

The Westport Conservation Commission held a regular meeting on November 12, 2024, with Vice Chair Jason Powell presiding. The commission continued two hearings due to lack of notice or attendance, granted three certificates of compliance for properties at 5 Bluebird Lane, 28 Second Street, and 169 Robert Street, and approved a $5,000 expenditure from the Wetlands Fund for an Open Space Plan update. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Continued Carricorp ANRAD hearing at 73 Brookwood Dr. to Nov 26 (unanimous)
• Continued John Paiva ANRAD hearing at 0 Register Ave. to Nov 26 (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Compliance to Gaby Rhame for 5 Bluebird Lane (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Compliance to Stanley Sylvia for 28 Second Street (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Compliance to Christy Sousa for 169 Robert Street (unanimous)
• Approved up to $5,000 from Wetlands Fund for Open Space Plan update and letter to Select Board (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bill to East Bay Media (unanimous)

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a special permit request to construct a 7,200 sq ft storage building for a manufacturing business at 203 Mouse Mill Road. The board will also discuss administrative items including consultant fee releases, pre-application consultations, and special permit extensions, as well as updates on grants and hiring.

• Bentley Estates II Modification (15-009C-MOD) – Release consultant review fees
• Pre-Application Consultation (24-034PAC) – Alfons Koka discusses Definitive Subdivision Plan for Railroad Park Section 15
• Ironwood Renewables, LLC (21-001SP) – Horseneck Road Special Permit Extension
• 203 Mouse Mill Road (24-026SPA) – Public hearing for 7,200 sq ft storage building
• Coastal Zone Management Grant and Municipal Vulnerability Program Action Grant Update

The Westport Planning Board voted unanimously to extend Ironwood Renewables LLC's special permit for a project at 0 Horseneck Road to April 30, 2027, accounting for 683 days lost to an appeal that was dismissed. The board also released $1,500 in consultant review fees for Bentley Estates II, continued a public hearing for a storage building at 203 Mouse Mill Road to December 3, and discussed a pre-application for a subdivision at 0 Railroad Park. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved extension of Ironwood Renewables special permit to April 30, 2027 (unanimous)
• Released $1,500 in consultant review fees for Bentley Estates II modification (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for 203 Mouse Mill Road storage building to December 3, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved October 15, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Convened into executive session to discuss Assistant Planner candidate (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will hold hearings on three septic and coastal resource notifications, review certificates of compliance for four residential lots, and consider one extension request. No discussion or continuances are scheduled.

• Hearings on septic notifications at 942 Drift Road, 0 Register Ave, and 1787 F Main Road
• Review of certificates of compliance for Long Built Homes lots on Sodom Road and Timothy Goodrich at 22 Lawrence Ave
• Extension request for Tzannes/Miranda at 1 Nick’s Way

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will hold an executive session to discuss strategy regarding pending litigation over the Marcotte Drive subdivision. The board will also hold public hearings on a four-lot housing development at 245 Old Harbor Road, a request to waive sidewalks at Bentley Estates II, and a major modification for a motorcycle restoration shop. Administrative items include closing out a site plan for Prestige Auto and endorsing a Mylar for 1429 Main Road.

• Executive session for pending litigation: Gregory Nicholas, et al v. Planning Board re: Marcotte Drive subdivision
• Public hearing: Little Compton Housing Trust proposes 4-lot single-family development at 245 Old Harbor Road
• Public hearing: Bentley Estates II requests waiver of sidewalks on approved subdivision
• Public hearing: Burke's V Twin seeks major modification for garage for motorcycle restoration shop
• Chapter 91 license applications: 208 Cadmans Neck Road and 942 Drift Road

The Planning Board convened a special meeting and voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss strategy regarding the Gregory Nicholas et al v. Planning Board of Westport litigation. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the board returned to open session after the closed discussion.

• Approved motion to enter executive session (5-0) to discuss litigation strategy
• Approved motion to return to open session (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will discuss and hold hearings on septic projects and coastal bank modifications at its October 8, 2024 meeting. The agenda includes new septic applications, continuances for single-family dwellings in buffer zones, and certificates of compliance for existing properties.

• Jocelyn Gambone: Septic permit (SE 80-2767) for single-family dwelling at 1429 Main Road in buffer zone
• Martin Keller: Sand nourishment project (SE 80-2767) on coastal bank at 216 Cadman’s Neck Road
• Dakotah Afonso: Continuance (SE 80-2761) for single-family dwelling, garage, and septic at Parcel 2 Old County Road in buffer zone
• Donald Raposa: Certificates of compliance for properties at Sandpiper Drive (SE 80-1268, SE 80-1819)
• Bernard Maloney: Extension request (SE 80-2395) for property at 174 East Beach Road

The Westport Conservation Commission approved three projects: a new single-family dwelling at 1429 Main Road (unanimous), sand nourishment and stair repairs at 216 Cadman's Neck Road (4-1), and a new home at Parcel 2 Old County Road (unanimous). It also issued a 3-year extension for Bernard Maloney, reissued a Certificate of Compliance for Donald Raposa, and approved an emergency certificate for Richmond Pond outlet work due to public safety concerns.

• Approved Jocelyn Gambone's NOI for a single-family dwelling at 1429 Main Road, contingent on split rail fence and Board of Health approval (unanimous)
• Approved Martin Keller's NOI for sand nourishment and stair repairs at 216 Cadman's Neck Road, with conditions on sand compatibility and no stair expansion (4-1, Powell opposed)
• Approved Dakotah Afonso's NOI for a single-family dwelling at Parcel 2 Old County Road, with conditions on barrier, stormwater basin, and Board of Health approval (unanimous)
• Reissued Certificate of Compliance for Donald Raposa at Sandpiper Drive (2-0-1, Joncas abstained)
• Issued 3-year extension for Bernard Maloney at 174 East Beach Road (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bill to East Bay Media (unanimous)
• Issued 30-day Emergency Certificate for Richmond Pond outlet excavation, requiring NOI filing and long-term plan (unanimous)
• Held minutes from 9-17-24, 6-7-24, and 9-3-24

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will close a public hearing on a special permit for 1429 Main Road and vote on an ANR request for a buildable lot at 218 Horseneck Road. Two public hearings will consider a modified special permit for a shared driveway at 720-726 Old County Road and a storage building at 203 Mouse Mill Road. The board will also receive updates on the Watuppa Connector Shared Use Path, aquatic organism passage grants, and hazard mitigation planning.

• Close public hearing and release consultant review fees for 1429 Main Road (24-022 SP-CD)
• ANR endorsement for one buildable lot at 218 Horseneck Road AP 45 Lot 5 (24-029A)
• Public hearing on modification to Special Permit-Common Driveway at 720-726 Old County Road (24-003SP-CD)
• Public hearing on 7,200 sf storage building at 203 Mouse Mill Road (24-026SPA)
• Watuppa Connector Shared Use Path Update

The Westport Planning Board approved a modification to a special permit for a common driveway at 720-726 Old County Road, changing it from gravel to paved and adding a Cape Cod berm for drainage. The board also closed a public hearing and released consultant fees for 1429 Main Road, endorsed an Approval Not Required plan for 218 Horseneck Road, and continued a public hearing for a storage building at 203 Mouse Mill Road to October 29, 2024. Additionally, the board appointed Bob Daylor as its representative to the new Offshore Wind Advisory Committee and voted to post the Assistant Planner position.

• Approved special permit modification for common driveway at 720-726 Old County Road (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 1429 Main Road (unanimous)
• Released consultant review fees for 1429 Main Road (unanimous)
• Endorsed Approval Not Required plan for 218 Horseneck Road (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for storage building at 203 Mouse Mill Road to October 29, 2024 (unanimous)
• Appointed Bob Daylor as main representative to Offshore Wind Advisory Committee, John Bullard as alternate (unanimous)
• Voted to post and revise Assistant Planner job description and salary (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of September 10, 2024 Executive Session minutes due to pending lawsuit (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will discuss septic system permits and buffer zone projects at its September 17 meeting. Two notices of intent involve riverfront and buffer zone work, while a request for determination addresses invasive plant removal and restoration.

• Paul Schmid – N.O.I. – 220C Fisherville Lane – License pier, gangway and float in riverfront area
• Dakota Afonso – R.D.A. – 429 Old County Road Parcel 1 – Removal of invasive plants and restoration of lawn, repair garage in buffer zone
• Dakota Afonso – N.O.I. – Parcel 2 Old County Road – Construct single family dwelling, garage, septic, paved driveway and deck in buffer zone

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will meet to decide on a $150,000 bond release for Westport Stone & Sand, LLC and endorse four new lot plans under ANR requests. Three public hearings will address a common driveway special permit, a solar project withdrawal, and a continuance for a commercial development. The board will also receive updates on coastal resilience funding and accessory dwelling unit bylaw impacts.

• Westport Stone & Sand, LLC bond release for $150,000 + interest
• ANR endorsements for 49 Tupelo Road (1 new lot), 533 Horseneck Road (4 lots), and 0 Pine Hill Road (5,839 SF conveyance)
• Public hearing on 1429 Main Road common driveway special permit
• Public hearing on SWEB-Division Road solar project withdrawal ($5,500 fee release)
• Public hearing continuance for Burke’s V Twin commercial development at 146 State Road

The Westport Planning Board unanimously approved a $150,000 bond release for Westport Stone & Sand Solar, endorsed three Approval Not Required (ANR) plans for lot divisions at 49 Tupelo Road, 533 Horseneck Road, and 0 Pine Hill Road, and granted a common driveway special permit for two lots at 1429 Main Road. The board also recommended Steve Fors for the Short-Term Rental Committee sub-committee and voted to contract with Pare Engineering for the Watuppa Connector MassTrails Grant. A solar project at 0 Division Road was withdrawn without prejudice due to wetland and easement issues.

• Approved $150,000 bond release for Westport Stone & Sand Solar (5-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 49 Tupelo Road creating one new lot and Parcel A (5-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 533 Horseneck Road creating three buildable lots and one non-buildable lot (5-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 0 Pine Hill Road conveying Parcel A to 139 Donovan's Lane (5-0)
• Recommended Steve Fors for Short-Term Rental Committee sub-committee appointment (5-0)
• Approved common driveway special permit for 1429 Main Road serving two residential lots (5-0)
• Granted withdrawal without prejudice for Division Road solar project and released $5,500 consultant fees (5-0)
• Recommended contracting with Pare Engineering for Watuppa Connector MassTrails Grant (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on six Notices of Intent and one Request for Determination of Applicability, covering construction of a single-family dwelling, driveway, septic system, dock, and garage repairs in buffer zones. The meeting also includes a discussion on septic systems at two properties and may take up other business, correspondence, minutes, bills, and agent reports.

• George Moreira — 53 No. Breault St. — Construct dwelling with driveway, septic, well in buffer zone
• George Moreira — 0 No. Breault Street — Construct driveway in buffer zone
• Lynn Taylor — 409 Pine Hill Road — Install dock float, gangway in land under water
• Andreas Andromalos — 1250 Pine Hill Road — Add house addition in riverfront area
• Dakota Afonso — 429 Old County Road Parcel 1 — Remove invasive plants, restore lawn, repair garage in buffer zone

The Westport Conservation Commission approved Negative Box 3 Determinations for two septic projects, and approved several Notices of Intent for construction in buffer zones and a dock installation. One hearing was continued to a later date. All votes were unanimous except for the dock project, which passed 4-1.

• Approved Negative Box 3 Determination for Keith and Kevin Toni septic at 32 Almada Street (unanimous)
• Approved Negative Box 3 Determination for Paul Schmid septic at 220C Fisherville Lane (unanimous)
• Approved construction of single-family dwelling, driveway, septic, well at 53 No. Breault St. (unanimous)
• Approved driveway and associated improvements at 0 No. Breault Street (unanimous)
• Approved dock, float, gangway at 409 Pine Hill Road with float stops at 30 inches (4-1)
• Approved additions and patio at 1260 Drift Road (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Dakota Afonso removal of invasive plants and garage repair at 429 Old County Road to 9-17-24 (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Dakota Afonso new dwelling at Old County Road Parcel 2 to 9-17-24 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will discuss and hold public hearings on septic permits and waterfront work at its August 20 meeting. Items include a new single-family home with septic in a buffer zone, pier and seawall maintenance, and a compliance certificate for a prior project.

• Septic permit for Alex Krapf at 10 Hillside Road
• Hearing for Dakota Afonso to construct single-family dwelling, garage, septic, driveway, and deck at 2 Old County Road in buffer zone
• Hearing for Thomas Lofts to maintain pier, float, ramp, seawall and add 2 piles for float support at 208 Cadmans Neck Road in land under waterway
• Certificate of Compliance for Carl Mobery at 25 Seabury Lane (SE 80-2499)

The Commission approved a septic system for 10 Hillside Road (Negative Box 3) unanimously. A hearing for a new single-family dwelling at 2 Old County Road was continued to September 3, 2024. A pier maintenance and float upgrade at 208 Cadmans Neck Road was approved with a condition that float stops be 30 inches above bottom. A Certificate of Compliance was granted for 25 Seabury Lane.

• Approved septic system at 10 Hillside Road (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for dwelling at 2 Old County Road to 9-3-24 (unanimous)
• Approved pier maintenance and float piles at 208 Cadmans Neck Road with 30-inch float stops (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Compliance for 25 Seabury Lane (unanimous)
• Approved mileage payment for Agent (unanimous)
• Approved East Bay Media bill (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 8-6-24 (unanimous)

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will meet to discuss several administrative items, including an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for Crane Avenue, a pre-application consultation for a subdivision at Railroad Park, and a request to close out and release a $232,000 surety for CVE North America on Tootell Way. Two public hearings are scheduled but both applicants are requesting continuances to September. The board will also receive reports on a MassTrails grant, a draft Housing Production Plan, and town meeting articles accepted by the Attorney General's Office.

• ANR endorsement for 1 lot at Crane Avenue (AP 24, Lots 27A & 28)
• Pre-application consultation for definitive subdivision at 0 Railroad Park (Section 15, Map 5, Lot 73-76)
• Close out and release of $232,000 surety plus interest for CVE North America on Tootell Way
• Public hearing continued for 720-726 Old County Road (24-003SP-CD) to September 24
• Public hearing continued for 146 State Road (24-017SPA-MAJ) to September 10

The Westport Planning Board approved the close-out and release of a $232,000 surety plus interest for CVE North America's Tootell Way project after a final site visit confirmed 100% completion. The board also endorsed an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for a lot on Crane Avenue, continued two public hearings, and appointed John Bullard to the Off-Shore Wind Advisory Committee.

• Approved release of $232,000 surety plus interest for CVE North America Tootell Way (5-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for AP 24 Lots 27A & 28 on Crane Avenue (4-0, one recusal)
• Continued public hearing for 720-726 Old County Road to September 24, 2024 (5-0)
• Granted extension of time for 720-726 Old County Road special permit to September 30, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 146 State Road to September 10, 2024 (5-0)
• Appointed John Bullard as Planning Board representative to Off-Shore Wind Advisory Committee
• Approved June 18, 2024 minutes as revised (5-0)
• Approved July 16, 2024 minutes as revised (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to review a soil and septic plan submitted by A.J. Potter & Sons for a property at 604 Main Road. Additionally, a separate hearing will assess whether resource areas depicted on a plan for 874 Main Road are accurate.

• A.J. Potter & Sons – soil and septic plan review for 604 Main Road
• Brian Corey – ANRAD plan accuracy hearing for 874 Main Road

The Westport Conservation Commission approved a one-year extension for Soil Permit #454 for A.J. Potter & Sons at 604 Main Road, and approved the wetland line as presented for Brian Corey's ANRAD application at 874 Main Road. Both votes were unanimous. Discussion of Jacob McGuigan's appointment to the Offshore Wind Advisory Committee was tabled due to conflict-of-interest concerns.

• Approved one-year extension for Soil Permit #454 for A.J. Potter & Sons (unanimous)
• Approved wetland line for Brian Corey ANRAD application at 874 Main Road (unanimous)
• Approved East Bay Media bill payment (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 9, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 23, 2024 (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on Jacob McGuigan's appointment to Offshore Wind Advisory Committee

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission will hold hearings on four Notices of Intent (NOIs) for projects in riverfront and buffer zones, including a new garage and driveway at 1041 Horseneck Road and a stone wall reconstruction at 1991 D Main Road. The agenda also includes septic and soil permit reviews, continuances, and extension requests.

• Jeffery Polzer & Kathleen McGuinn – NOI for addition, garage, and driveway in buffer zone at 1041 Horseneck Road
• Westport House LLC – NOI for stone wall reconstruction and pier work in riverfront area at 1991 D Main Road
• Point House 2020 Tr. – NOI for replacement of licensed rock wall at 2048 Main Road
• John Kinnane – continuance for NOI at 1634 Y Drift Road (rehab, patio, landscaping in riverfront area)
• Bernadette O’Keefe – continuance for beach maintenance at 158 East Beach Road

The Westport Conservation Commission held two meetings (July 9 and July 23, 2024) and approved numerous permits, extensions, and certificates of compliance. All votes were unanimous. Key actions included approving a one-year extension for a soil permit at 33 Old County Road, approving construction at 1041 Horseneck Road, and granting certificates of compliance for several properties. The commission also issued enforcement orders for unauthorized clearing and sand placement.

• Approved one-year extension for Soil Permit #497 at 33 Old County Road (unanimous)
• Approved construction of addition, garage, and driveway in buffer zone at 1041 Horseneck Road (unanimous)
• Approved reconstruction of stone wall and pier at 1991 Main Road (unanimous)
• Approved reconstruction of rock wall pier at 2048 Main Road (unanimous)
• Approved rehab structure, patio, and landscaping at 1634 Drift Road (unanimous)
• Approved beach maintenance at 158 East Beach Road (unanimous)
• Granted three-year extensions for permits at 122 and 178 East Beach Road (unanimous)
• Issued enforcement orders for clearing at 17 Sandpiper and sand placement at 216 Cadman's Neck Road (unanimous)

Special Meeting

The Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on a property at Marcotte Drive (Plat 52 Lot 20A). This hearing has been previously continued from October 2023, December 2023, February 2024, and July 16, 2024. The agenda also includes a period for matters not reasonably anticipated within 48 hours.

• Continued public hearing for Plat 52 Lot 20A-Marcotte Drive (application 23-031C)

The Westport Planning Board voted unanimously to deny the proposed 8-lot subdivision on Marcotte Drive after a public hearing. All three motions—approval of a perimeter road waiver, a 25-foot radius waiver, and the definitive subdivision plan—failed 0-5. The board closed the public hearing before the votes.

• Closed public hearing for Marcotte Drive subdivision (5-0)
• Denied waiver #1 for perimeter road (0-5)
• Denied 25-foot radius waiver (0-5)
• Denied definitive subdivision plan for Marcotte Drive (0-5)

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will decide on releasing sureties and endorsing land plans, including the Rita Lane Extension and Fisher Road LLC projects. It will also hold public hearings on Plat 52 Lot 20A and a withdrawal request at 435 Old Harbor Road. The board will receive a planner's report covering short-term rentals, subdivision bylaws, and grants for trails and resilience.

• Release surety and consultant fees for Rita Lane Extension (19-001C)
• Request for surety release for 431 Fisher Road LLC - Stacy Lane (20-002C)
• Public hearing on Plat 52 Lot 20A - Marcotte Drive (23-031C)
• Withdrawal request for 435 Old Harbor Road (23-037SPA)
• MassTrails Grant Award for Quequechan River Rail Trail Extension

The Westport Planning Board approved final subdivision plans, surety releases, and an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for a conservation trust. Several public hearings were continued or withdrawn, and committee appointments were made.

• Approved final subdivision for Rita Lane Extension and released $87,500 surety plus interest (4-0)
• Partially released $40,000 surety for Stacy Lane, retaining $10,000 for landscaping (4-0)
• Closed out and released $1,633 consultant review funds for 82 Highridge Road (4-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for Westport Land Conservation Trust at 1017 & 1047 Sodom Road (4-0)
• Reappointed Manuel Soares and Bob Daylor to Infrastructure and Safety Committee (4-0)
• Reappointed Manuel Soares to Economic Development Task Force (4-0)
• Continued Marcotte Drive subdivision public hearing to July 23, 2024 (4-0)
• Granted withdrawal without prejudice for 435 Old Harbor Road site plan and closed out $1,321.98 consultant review funds (4-0)

Regular meeting

The Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee held its first meeting, appointed Jim Whitin as chair, and reviewed an overview of the hazard mitigation planning process with consultants. The committee also scheduled a public engagement session for October at the Westport Free Public Library.

• Appointed Jim Whitin as committee chair (unanimous)
• Scheduled first public engagement session for October at Westport Free Public Library

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission unanimously approved several septic system determinations, soil permit extensions, and certificates of compliance for properties. They also continued a hearing for beach maintenance and approved a support letter for a Coastal Zone Resilience Grant with match funding from the Wetlands account.

• Approved Negative Box 3 determination for Sequoia Holdings at 237-1 Gifford Road (unanimous)
• Approved Negative Box 2 determination for Tim Brown at 0 Shirley Street (unanimous)
• Granted one-year extension to Soil Permit #498 for ProPaving & Excavating (unanimous)
• Granted one-year extension to Soil Permit #494 for Alexander Excavating (unanimous)
• Granted one-year extension to Soil Permit #488 for George Brown (unanimous)
• Approved stone wall reconstruction for Cummings Lane Corp. at Cummings Lane (unanimous)
• Approved wetland delineation for Robert Haines III at 0 Horseneck Road (unanimous)
• Approved support letter for Coastal Zone Resilience Grant Program with match funding (unanimous)

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding a subdivision plan and a special permit modification. The board will also receive updates on a culvert replacement grant and a short-term rental survey.

• Public hearing for Cory Ridge Estates definitive subdivision plan at 265 Cornell Road
• Public hearing for special permit-common driveway modification at 720-726 Old County Road
• Buzzards Bay National Estuaries Program Culvert Replacement Grant update
• Short-Term Rental Survey report
• National Coastal Resilience Fund support letter

The Planning Board approved the definitive subdivision plan for Cory Ridge Estates at 265 Cornell Road, subject to conditions and waivers, after closing the public hearing. The board also continued a public hearing for a common driveway modification at 720-726 Old County Road to August 13, 2024, and approved sending a letter of recommendation to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for coastal resilience projects.

• Closed public hearing for Cory Ridge Estates definitive subdivision plan (5-0).
• Approved definitive subdivision plan for Cory Ridge Estates, subject to conditions and waivers (5-0).
• Continued public hearing for 720-726 Old County Road common driveway modification to August 13, 2024 (5-0).
• Approved sending letter of recommendation to National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for coastal resilience projects (5-0).
• Approved June 4, 2024 meeting minutes as written (3-0-1, with Schmid voting to approve only up to 7:08 p.m.).

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding a recreational marijuana dispensary and a low impact development request. The board will also review a 2-lot plan endorsement and process administrative closeouts.

• Special permit request for a recreational marijuana dispensary at 260 State Road
• Low impact development request for site clearing exceeding 40,000 square feet at Mello’s Way (Plat 21 Lot 8A)
• Endorsement request for a 2-lot plan at 519 American Legion Highway
• Release of consultant review balances for 146 State Road ($1,000 + interest) and Isidoro Court ($500 + interest)

The Westport Planning Board approved a special permit for Salty Breeze, Inc. to operate a recreational marijuana dispensary at 260 State Road, with three waivers and conditions. The board also closed out consultant review funds for two properties, endorsed an ANR plan, and approved a low-impact development plan for Mello's Way. All votes were unanimous (5-0 or 4-0).

• Approved special permit for recreational marijuana dispensary at 260 State Road (5-0)
• Granted three waivers for site plan approval at 260 State Road (5-0)
• Closed out $1,000 + interest consultant review for 146 State Road (5-0)
• Closed out $500 + interest consultant review for Isidoro Court (5-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 519 American Legion Highway (5-0)
• Approved low-impact development plan for Mello's Way with conditions (5-0)
• Approved $4,000 for Coastal Resilience Grant application preparation (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 21, 2024 (4-0)

Regular meeting

The Westport Planning Board approved the release of $2,500 plus interest for a project at 461 Old Harbor Road, re-appointed Jim Whitin as Chair and Bob Daylor as Vice-Chair, and recommended a temporary certificate of occupancy for Five Star Collision. Several public hearings were continued to future dates, and the board discussed comments on the Pine Ridge Estates 40B project and short-term rental regulations.

• Approved release of $2,500 + interest for 461 Old Harbor Road (5-0)
• Re-appointed Jim Whitin as Chair and Bob Daylor as Vice-Chair (5-0)
• Appointed Jim Whitin as Planning Board representative to Hazard Mitigation Plan Committee (5-0)
• Recommended temporary certificate of occupancy for Five Star Collision (5-0)
• Recommended release of Chapter 61A land at 21 Kelsey's Way (5-0)
• Continued Cory Ridge Estates public hearing to future date
• Continued 435 Old Harbor Road public hearing to July 16, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued 720 & 726 Old County Road public hearing to June 18, 2024 (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission approved a water line extension project for the Town of Westport along Route 6 to Gifford Road, subject to standard conditions and MassDOT approval. Several septic and construction projects were approved or continued, including a negative determination for a septic system at 217 O Tickle Road and approval for an elevator installation in a flood zone at 156 Cherry & Webb Lane. A soil permit for Rego Earthworks was continued due to incomplete abutter notification.

• Approved water line extension to Gifford Road with standard conditions, subject to MassDOT approval (unanimous)
• Approved Negative Box 3 for septic system at 217 O Tickle Road (unanimous)
• Approved Negative Box 2 for elevator installation at 156 Cherry & Webb Lane (unanimous)
• Approved resource area delineation at 601 Drift Road (unanimous)
• Continued soil permit for Rego Earthworks at 1184/1188 Main Road to May 28 (unanimous)
• Continued Cummings Lane stone wall rebuild to June 11 (unanimous)
• Continued Paul and Melanie Baker project at 3 Richmond Pond Dr. to May 28 (unanimous)
• Approved release for Mann at 21 Kelseys Way (unanimous)

Regular meeting

The Planning Board is meeting to discuss Town Meeting Articles. No other specific agenda items are listed.

• Discussion of Town Meeting Articles

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission approved several Notices of Intent and other permits for projects in wetland resource areas, including a dock, garage, septic upgrades, and eelgrass restoration. All votes were unanimous. One soil permit was continued due to lack of abutter notification.

• Approved Negative Box 2 for septic at 59 East Shore Road (unanimous)
• Continued soil permit for Rego Earthworks at 1184/1188 Main Road for two weeks (unanimous)
• Approved wetland line at 329 Tickle Road (unanimous)
• Continued NOI for garage and septic at 3 Richmond Pond Dr. for two weeks (unanimous)
• Approved dock construction at 1278 Drift Road pending Marine Services comments (unanimous)
• Approved house addition and septic at 2040 Main Road with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved house raising and septic at 2038 Main Road with Board of Health approval (unanimous)
• Approved new well field at 755 River Road with conditions (unanimous)

Regular meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding land use and site plan approvals. The board is also considering several requests for lot plan endorsements and the release of consultant review balances.

• Special Permit application for 461 Old Harbor Road to reduce frontage requirements for one new lot
• Approval Not Required (ANR) requests for 1429 Main Road and 461 Old Harbor Road
• Release of consultant review balances for Buzzards Bay Coalition ($822.56), Private Acres ($54.98), and 795 Pine Hill Road ($571.03)
• Pre-application consultation for a residential/home business motorcycle restoration at 146 State Road
• Endorsement of Low Impact Development site plan for Soules Way (Map 57 Lot 19 & 24)

Work Session

The Planning Board is holding a working session to review climate resilience recommendations for East Beach. The board will also discuss a report to the Select Board and the approach to zoning articles for Town Meeting.

• Climate Resilience Committee policy recommendations for East Beach
• Planning Board Report to Select Board regarding East Beach
• Approach to Zoning Articles at Town Meeting

Regular meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a driveway modification and a solar project. The board will also discuss site plan approvals and land lot endorsements.

• Proposed ground mounted solar installation on 26.13 AC at 0 Division Road
• Low Impact Development Site Plan Approval for Soule’s Way Solar Project at 0 Soules Way
• 2-lot plan endorsement for 269 Narrow Avenue
• Special Permit-Common Driveway modification for 720 & 726 Old County Road
• Request to release Lot 7 from the Covenant for Inheritance Lane

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission approved a beach maintenance project at 21 East Beach Road for Patricia DiBonaventura, pending receipt of file number and no adverse comments. Several other projects were continued to future meetings, including a stone wall rebuild on Cummings Lane and a dune restoration at Elephant Rock Beach Club. The commission also approved a three-year extension for a project at 574 River Road and agreed to work with SERPEDD on a new Open Space Plan.

• Approved Patricia DiBonaventura's beach maintenance at 21 East Beach Road (unanimous)
• Continued Cummings Lane Corp stone wall rebuild to April 30, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued William Fuller's lot grading and deck replacement to April 16, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued Elephant Rock Beach Club dune restoration to April 30, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Kevin Curt's beach maintenance at 85 East Beach Road with standard conditions (unanimous)
• Continued MA Division of Marine Fisheries eelgrass transplanting to April 16, 2024 (unanimous)
• Granted three-year extension for Joel Maxwell at 574 River Road (unanimous)
• Approved working with SERPEDD on new Open Space Plan (unanimous)

Regular meeting

The Planning Board is meeting to consider several Approval Not Required (ANR) requests for land reconfiguration. Three scheduled public hearings for a residential subdivision, an education facility, and a marijuana dispensary are listed as requesting continuances.

• ANR request to combine land at 1193 and 1177 American Legion Highway
• ANR request for a 2-lot plan at 512 River Road
• ANR request for a 2-lot plan at 521 American Legion Highway
• Public hearing for Cory Ridge Estates subdivision at 265 Cornell Road
• Public hearing for conversion of 435 Old Harbor Road into an adolescent education and housing facility

The Westport Planning Board unanimously approved three Approval Not Required (ANR) plans for lot line adjustments at 1193 American Legion Highway, 512 River Road, and 521 American Legion Highway. The board also voted to cancel three summer meetings (July 2, July 30, and August 27, 2024) and approved a partial release of Lot 10 on Stacy Lane with a surety reduction to $50,000, as well as a surety reduction for Inheritance Lane to $65,550. Three public hearings were continued to future dates due to outstanding materials: Cory Ridge Estates (to May 21), 435 Old Harbor Road (to May 21), and Salty Breeze, Inc. (to June 4).

• Approved ANR plan for 1193 American Legion Highway lot combination (5-0)
• Approved ANR plan for 512 River Road lot reconfiguration (5-0)
• Approved ANR plan for 521 American Legion Highway 2-lot plan (5-0)
• Eliminated July 2, July 30, and August 27, 2024 meetings for summer schedule (5-0)
• Released final lot (Lot 10) from Stacy Lane covenant and retained $50,000 surety (5-0)
• Reduced surety for Inheritance Lane from $133,000 to $65,550 (5-0)
• Continued Cory Ridge Estates public hearing to May 21, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued 435 Old Harbor Road public hearing to May 21, 2024 (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission unanimously approved several septic repairs, beach nourishment projects, and extensions. Notable approvals include Robert Tremblay's septic project at 277 Robert Street and Vincent Vivenzio's beach nourishment at 154 East Beach Road. The Town of Westport's sewer main extension on Route 6 was withdrawn and will be refiled.

• Approved Robert Tremblay's septic project at 277 Robert Street (unanimous)
• Approved Vincent Vivenzio's beach nourishment and tight tank at 154 East Beach Road (unanimous)
• Granted 4-week continuance for Edward Carey's float and seawall project at 504 River Road (unanimous)
• Approved John Monsour's septic repair at 42-52 D Drive (unanimous)
• Approved LoriAnn Neves' beach maintenance at 130 East Beach Road (unanimous)
• Approved Andrea Greenwood-Syron's beach maintenance at 62 & 66 East Beach Road (unanimous)
• Granted 3-year extensions for Gil Diniz at 123 So. Shore Road and Deborah Attardo at 118 East Beach Road (unanimous)
• Granted Certificates of Compliance for Richard Ilgen at 1634 Drift Road and Charles Trippe at 42 Valentine Lane (unanimous)

Regular meeting

The Planning Board will discuss several proposed zoning changes, including new regulations for short-term rentals and the creation of a Westport Gateway District. The board is also reviewing a definitive subdivision for Rosewood Lane and an as-built plan for Rita Lane.

• Proposed zoning amendments for short-term rental definitions and registration
• Proposed creation of the Westport Gateway District to replace the Business district between Fall River and Route 88
• Proposed changes to the Science and Technology Overlay District to include residential uses
• Proposed re-designation of all Unrestricted (U) district properties to Residential/Agriculture (RA)
• Public hearing for Rosewood Lane Definitive Subdivision (23-039C)

The Westport Planning Board approved the definitive subdivision plan for Rosewood Lane with three waivers, closed the public hearing, and continued a hearing for Mello's Way. The board also approved the as-built plan for Rita Lane Extension on condition that White Oak Run is accepted at Town Meeting, and closed the public hearing on short-term rental zoning amendments after directing the town planner to finalize revisions.

• Approved Road As-Built Plan for Rita Lane Extension with condition that White Oak Run is accepted at Town Meeting (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for Plat 21 Lot 8A – Mello's Way to April 23, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved Definitive Subdivision Plan for Rosewood Lane with waivers 2, 3, and 5 (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for Rosewood Lane Definitive Subdivision (5-0)
• Directed town planner to review final revisions before sending short-term rental zoning amendments to Select Board (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for 2024 Zoning Amendments (5-0)
• Approved minutes of February 6, 2024 (5-0)
• Authorized chairman to write letter recommending dredge spoils be used for beach nourishment and dune rebuilding (5-0)

Regular meeting

The Planning Board will review administrative items including a solar project extension and water study. A public hearing is scheduled regarding Plat 52 Lot 20A on Drift Road. The board will also receive reports on various municipal grants.

• Soules Way Solar 12-month extension request
• Westport Harbor Water Study final report
• Public hearing for Plat 52 Lot 20A (Marcotte Drive - Drift Road)
• EastBay Media invoice for Zoning By-Law amendments ($328.00)

The Westport Planning Board approved a 12-month extension for the Soules Way Solar special permit and voted to retain MBL Land Development as the new peer reviewer. A public hearing for a proposed nine-lot subdivision on Drift Road was continued to April 23, 2024, after board members and residents raised concerns about density and drainage.

• Approved 12-month extension for Soules Way Solar special permit (5-0)
• Retained MBL Land Development as consulting engineer for peer review (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for Marcotte Drive subdivision to April 23, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved January 18, 2024 work session minutes (4-0-1 abstention)
• Approved January 23, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved $328 invoice for EastBay Media zoning bylaw amendment ad (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission unanimously approved a single-family home at 395 Gifford Road, beach nourishment at 97 East Beach Road, and a Title 5 system/decks/gazebo at 194 East Beach Road (pending DEP file number and wall removal). It also voted unanimously to sponsor a Town Meeting article transferring two tax-title parcels to the Westport Land Conservation Trust for conservation and passive recreation trails.

• Approved single-family home, well and grading at 395 Gifford Road (unanimous)
• Approved beach nourishment/maintenance at 97 East Beach Road with agent's recommendations (unanimous)
• Approved Title 5 system, decks & gazebo at 194 East Beach Road, pending DEP file number and removal of stone wall (unanimous)
• Sponsored Town Meeting article to transfer two tax-title parcels to Conservation Commission for conservation and trails (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 1-16-24 (4-0-1, Joncas abstained)
• Paid two East Bay Media bills (unanimous)

Regular meeting

The Planning Board will vote on land plan endorsements and HOA amendments. The board will also hold public hearings for a residential subdivision and two special permit requests, though applicants for those projects have requested continuances.

• Endorsement of 1-lot plans at 1058 State Road and A.P. 60, Lot 18
• Vote on HOA amendment to remove Lot 103C from the agreement at 309 Gifford Road
• Public hearing for Cory Ridge Estates subdivision at 265 Cornell Road
• Public hearing for adolescent education and housing facility at 435 Old Harbor Road
• Public hearing for a recreational marijuana dispensary by Salty Breeze, Inc.

The Westport Planning Board approved two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans for boundary adjustments at 1058 State Road and A.P. 63 Lot 18, and voted 4-1 to remove Lot 103C from the Carvalho Farm HOA agreement. The board also released $5,000 in inspection funds for Stoneridge, accepted a $133,000 surety estimate for Inheritance Lane, and continued three public hearings to March 19, 2024. Additionally, the board voted to provide a support letter and $5,000 in matching funds for extending the Quequechan Rail Trail.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 1058 State Road boundary adjustment (5-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for A.P. 63 Lot 18 boundary adjustment (5-0)
• Approved removal of Lot 103C from Carvalho Farm HOA agreement (4-1)
• Released $5,000 + interest in inspection funds for Stoneridge (5-0)
• Accepted $133,000 surety estimate for Inheritance Lane (5-0)
• Continued Cory Ridge Estates public hearing to March 19, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued 435 Old Harbor Road public hearing to March 19, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued Salty Breeze Inc. public hearing to March 19, 2024 (5-0)

Work Session

The Planning Board is holding a working session with the Short-Term Rental Committee. They will revise a draft bylaw previously considered at a January 9 public hearing.

• Revision of Zoning Bylaw Section 9.8 regarding bed and breakfasts and short-term rentals
• Revision of short-term rental definitions in section 3
• Amendments to the table of use regulations in section 5.1
• Amendments to Parking Regulations in section 8.3

The Westport Planning Board held a work session to revise the draft short-term rental bylaw, considering three options: same regulations, a certification process, or no action. The board voted to forward amendments outlining a certification process administered by the Building Department to the Select Board for the Annual Town Meeting, and also voted to present a separate warrant article amonlying the Use Regulations table to allow short-term rentals in certain districts. The public hearing was closed. Additionally, the board discussed storm damage to East Beach and long-range response options.

• Approved motion to forward short-term rental bylaw amendments with certification process to Select Board for Town Meeting (5-0)
• Approved motion to present separate warrant article amending Use Regulations table to allow short-term rentals in Residential/Agricultural, Business, and Unrestricted Districts (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for Short-Term Rental By-Law (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Westport Conservation Commission met on January 16, 2024, and unanimously approved an emergency certification for the Highway Department to remove debris from Richmond Pond to address a public safety flood issue. The commission also unanimously approved a septic system upgrade at 1274 Drift Road, a revetment repair at 374 River Road pending state comments, and certificates of compliance for two properties. All votes were unanimous.

• Unanimously approved Emergency Certification for Richmond Pond Outfall to allow Highway Department to remove deposited cobble and sand (public safety flood issue).
• Unanimously approved septic system upgrade at 1274 Drift Road (Kevin Carter motion, Jacob McGuigan second).
• Unanimously approved repair of licensed solid fill revetment at 374 River Road, pending comments from the Division of Marine Fisheries (Jacob McGuigan motion, Phillip Weinberg second).
• Unanimously granted Certificate of Compliance for David Mendell at 926 Drift Road (SE 80-2643).
• Unanimously granted Certificate of Compliance for Edward Flynn at 1332 Drift Road (SE 80-2595).
• Unanimously approved extension for Kevin Daly at 82 East Beach Road (SE 80-1861).
• Unanimously approved minutes from December 5, 2023.
• Unanimously approved payment to Masons and mileage reimbursement for Christopher Capone.

Regular meeting

The Planning Board is conducting public hearings on zoning bylaw amendments for short-term rentals and bed and breakfasts. The board is also reviewing a subdivision plan for Rosewood Lane and discussing the creation of a new Westport Gateway District.

• Proposed amendments to Zoning Bylaw Section 9.8 regarding short-term rental and B&B permitting, registration, and parking
• Public hearing for a definitive subdivision plan to divide Rosewood Lane into two lots
• Application withdrawal for Westport Lakes ILF and release of $5,000 plus interest
• Discussion on creating a Westport Gateway District to replace the Business District between Fall River and Route 88
• Travel and training reimbursement for Burris in the amount of $61.48

The Westport Planning Board voted unanimously to continue the public hearings for the Salty Breeze Inc. project at 260 State Road to January 23, 2024, and for the Marcotte Drive subdivision to February 6, 2024, due to engineers awaiting additional information. The board also approved minutes from November 14 and 28, 2023, and discussed updates on the Route 1 rezoning, a solar project, grants, and zoning definitions for congregate living. No final decisions were made on the continued hearings.

• Continued public hearing for Salty Breeze, Inc. (23-032SPA-SP-RM) to January 23, 2024, at 6:45 p.m. (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for Plat 52 Lot 20A (23-031C) to February 6, 2024, at 6:15 p.m. (5-0)
• Approved minutes of November 14, 2023, as written (5-0)
• Approved minutes of November 28, 2023, as amended (5-0)