The Marshfield Conservation Commission addressed several critical residential and infrastructure projects during its January 21 meeting, starting with a necessary repair by the Town of Marshfield DPW. Matt Kinlin of the Engineering Department presented plans to replace a deteriorated sewer manhole and connecting pipes at Plymouth Avenue and Westbrook Street. Kinlin explained that everything is going to be contained within the hole that we're digging in the road to minimize environmental impact. Commissioner Platt supported the urgency of the work, noting that it would probably be better off doing it sooner rather than later while the ground is frozen to maintain trench stability. Motion Made by Commissioner Platt to close the hearing and issue the determination of applicability with a positive five and a negative two. Motion Passed 3-0

A failed septic system at 70 Damon’s Point Road also received approval for a major upgrade. Peter Lions of Collins Engineering Group detailed the relocation of the system away from the North River, stating that anytime we have a failed septic system that close to the resource, we want to mitigate that, clean it up and get everything as far away as possible. Homeowner Marian Leonard participated to clarify the removal of a single tree required for equipment access, mentioning that because of the way that the property is, the only way that they can get into to be able to bring that large tank in is in that corner. While Commissioner O'Donnell raised concerns about buoyancy calcs for the septic tank in the high-water area, Conservation Agent Mike highlighted the environmental benefit, noting that to get that upgraded will be a major improvement to this property. Motion Made by Commissioner Platt to close the hearing and issue an order of conditions to include the conditions that Mike mentioned earlier. Motion Passed 3-0

The most debated item of the evening was a notice of intent for a massive 273-foot dock at 121 Grand View Avenue. Paul Seber of Grady Consulting argued for a variance from town regulations, which typically limit dock length based on water frontage. Seber noted that this is a common request for dock projects and typically granted by the commission as the majority of the lots along the river are narrow. However, Commissioner Miles questioned the precedent, stating, I don't think we've issued a variance for properties that didn't already have an existing dock on them. Agent Mike added that the proposed swim platform does invite foot traffic into the tidal flat and salt marsh area where currently there is none. Motion Made by Commissioner Miles to continue this hearing until February 18th. Motion Passed 3-0

In other business, William Evans of 31 Constellation Road discussed a planting plan to restore a coastal dune being used for illegal parking. Evans shared his struggles with local enforcement, saying it's hard to get it through to the kids... they say this is a yard in the middle of a densely populated neighborhood. Additionally, a builder for 1177 Ferry Street requested a shift to helix piles for a foundation due to tight site constraints and low power lines, explaining that my pile guy does not think he can get in there. Motion Made by Commissioner Platt to approve the shift to helix piles on 1177 Ferry Street. Motion Passed 3-0. The meeting was adjourned at 33:10