The Duxbury Planning Board grappled with a lengthy agenda this week, centered largely on the continued public hearing for the 51 Wadsworth Road subdivision. Attorney Rob Damroso, representing the applicant, presented a "no waiver" concept plan as previously requested by the board to demonstrate the feasibility of developing the two-lot parcel without specialized relief. Damroso argued that while a compliant plan is possible, the original proposal with a smaller 80-foot diameter cul-de-sac remains superior, stating, We'd still asked tonight that the board vote on that plan... we still intend that the original proposal with the 81-foot diameter cul-de-sac is superior for a variety of reasons. Peer review engineer Pat Brennan confirmed the no-waiver alternative was valid but noted that construction of houses on the lots would likely still trigger Conservation Commission oversight. Neighbor Andrew Burns expressed ongoing frustration regarding the lack of environmental coordination, asking, I do have a question in so far as why the conservation commission has not yet been involved.

Board members voiced significant skepticism regarding the requested waivers for the Wadsworth project, particularly concerning environmental impacts and roadway standards. Tag Carpenter questioned the public benefit of the requests, noting, I don't understand how we can get to any conclusion in which we conclude that any of these waivers are in the public interest when the applicant came in and said they don't need any. Jennifer Turcotte, PE, emphasized the need for accountability, stating, There's no way for the planning board to agree to lot release because the criteria for lot release is that the project was developed in substantial compliance with the approved plan. While Steve Gandt suggested the smaller cul-de-sac might have a better aesthetic impact on a neighborhood, Matthew Ray countered that granting waivers merely for cost or savings did not meet the legal threshold for public interest. Lauren Sirois added that she would not grant this waiver regarding environmental assessments, while Wayne Dennison reminded the applicant that if that's the rule... and we don't enforce it, then we're not doing our job. Motion Made by Tag Carpenter to extend the deadline at the request of the applicant until February 10th. Vote Passed 7-0. Following this, Motion Made by Kristin Rappe to continue this subdivision public hearing until January 26th. Vote Passed 7-0.

The board also conducted its first-ever administrative site plan review for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) under Duxbury’s newly adopted bylaws. Applicant Steve Bowski proposed a garage with an apartment above it at 153 Surplus Street, leading to a debate over the legal enforceability of the bylaws while awaiting final approval from the Attorney General. Planning Director Matthew Heins shared legal counsel’s opinion that the board must act as if the amendments are approved, though the applicant proceeds at their own risk. Bowski noted his confidence in the project, stating, I feel comfortable that I'm in good hands... and I trust that the building commission is not going to say, "Oh, they approve the ADU." Chair Kristin Rappe noted that the intention here is to kind of look at what does a no waiver plan look like while requiring Bowski to submit more detailed plans regarding driveways and landscaping. Motion Made by Tag Carpenter to approve the proposed ADU on condition that the applicant submits a plan that is deemed sufficient for purposes of the board by staff. Vote Passed 5-0.

Finally, the board heard a proposal for a major expansion of Mayflower Cemetery at 774 Tremont Street, which would create over 3,800 new burial lots and 460 cremation lots. Cemetery Trustee Bob Hayes warned of the urgent need for the project, stating, If that takes us into 2027... we will be running out of graves in the existing cemetery. Engineer Eric Remis explained that the project will include associated site improvements... storm water improvements, and landscaping upgrades including invasive species control. Despite the scale of the expansion, Remis noted the plan aims to preserve mature trees where possible. The hearing was continued to allow for final peer review. Motion Made by Matthew Ray to continue the cemetery hearing to November 24th. Vote Passed 5-0.