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Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Meeting
INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES AGENCY
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, December 14, 2004
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency was held on Tuesday, December 14, 2004 in the Council Chambers, Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut. Chairperson Gretchen Pfeifer-Hall called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Gretchen Pfeifer-Hall, Chairperson
Richard Szewczak
Frank Poirot
Louis V. Tallarita
David J. Wawer
MEMBERS ABSENT: Joseph Jedynak
Michael Mosschetti
ALSO PRESENT: Neil Angus, Wetlands Agent
Susan Berube, Recording Secretary
PUBLIC HEARING(S)
None.
REGULAR MEETING
1. Call to Order:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Gretchen Pfeifer-Hall at 7:00 p.m.
2. Pledge Allegiance to the Flag
3. Roll Call:
Present were: Chairperson Gretchen Pfeifer-Hall and Agents Poirot, Szewczak, Tallarita, and Wawer. Also present were Neil Angus, Wetlands Agent and Susan Berube, Recording Secretary.
4. Executive Session - Matters regarding specific employees, pending litigation, acquisition of real estate and / or matters exempt from disclosure requirements, as needed. The specific reason should be stated for each session.
There were no items for discussion in Executive Session.
5. Public Participation - Issues of concern not on the agenda.
No one in the audience came forward to speak.
6. Public Participation - Issues of concern not on the agenda.
No one in the audience came forward to speak.
7. Correspondence.
The following items of correspondence were received:
" Letter from Mr. Angus, dated 12/6/04 to Steve Tessitore of Connecticut D.E.P. regarding proposed regulation amendments;
" letter dated 12/7/04 from Mr. Angus to Christine Criscitelli regarding review of building permit for new house construction at 57 First Avenue. The letter noted that there will be no activity within 100' of wetlands but precautions should be taken to ensure that no siltation enters the catch basins in the front yard that drain across the street into a wetland area;
" Authorized Agent Wetlands Permit dated 12/8/04 to Henry Dallaire for construction of a garage and addition at 22 Edgewood Drive;
" letter dated 11/30/04 from David Askew, District Manager of Central CT Conservation District and 2004 Annual Report for North Central Conservation District; Mr. Angus noted that Gordon Lane is one of the photos in the Report and is an area of concern regarding escarpment slopes. The Grant that is mentioned is for non-engineered solutions for escarpment slopes. Several other sites in Enfield are being considered for this grant;
" notice of upcoming training sessions for Agency members - Connecticut Land Use Law on March 5, 2005 and Integrating Biodiversity into Local Land-Use Decisions on January 22, 2005;
" copy of email from Don Smith, State Forester regarding Sudden Oak Death; Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall asked if local nurseries had been informed of this problem. Mr. Angus noted that there was an article recently in the Hartford Courant regarding this issue and that the State Forester is pushing for increased awareness. He will follow up to be sure that local nurseries are informed;
" memo from David Askew, Central Conservation District, regarding Erosion Control at 113 Raffia Road.
8. Commissioner's Correspondence:
None of the Agents had correspondence for discussion.
9. Approval of Minutes -- November 30, 2004 Meeting:
After brief review, a motion was made by Agent Szewczak and seconded by Agent Wawer to approve the minutes of the meeting of November 30, 2004 as presented. Vote was 4-0-1(Wawer).
10. Wetlands Agent Report - November 29, 2004 through December 8, 2004:
Mr. Angus noted that most items in the Report were covered in the Correspondence portion of the Agenda.
He noted that the water companies do not seem to be using "best management practices", even during emergency situations. Mr. Tessitore of the D.E.P. suggested that the Agency or Agent consider issuing an "Order to Restore" as permitted in the State Statutes (22a-44) to the Town's IWWA Regulations.
It was the consensus of the Agency members to schedule a public hearing to add this to the Regulations as soon as the D.E.P. review of the amendment is complete, most likely for the 1st meeting in February, 2005.
Agent Poirot asked how homeowners can take care of beaver problems. Mr. Angus stated that the D.E.P. considers removal of dams to be regulated activities and beavers can be removed only at certain times of year and only by State licensed trappers. Unless the beavers and their dams are causing damage/flooding to structures or roadways, they are typically left alone and will eventually move on.
10. Old Business
IW#428 - Town of Enfield for proposed storm drainage improvements involving excavation and placement of structures within 100 feet of wetlands and watercourses. Property located within the Road ROW on the North side of Town Farm Road adjacent to #127 [Submitted November 19, 2004, Received November 30, 2004; PPE December 14, 2004; MAD February 3, 2005].
Jeffrey Bord, Engineer for the Town of Enfield represented the applicant.
Mr. Bord explained that in front of 127 Town Farm Road, there exists a low spot in the road which holds water and, in the winter, freezes 6 to 7' into the roadway, creating a safety issue.
Town Farm Road is located in the south eastern part of town, with Buckhorn Brook running alongside it. The watershed area is 440 acres, 29 of which drains to the ponding area on Town Farm Road. The watershed runs from Abbe Road to Broad Brook Road and Town Farm Road, across the street from #127 and eventually into the Scantic.
The Town plans to install 270' of 24" pipe on the north side of Town Farm Road, attaching to an existing 48" culvert pipe under Town Farm Road. There will be no change in flow characteristics at this point. There will be no additional impervious surfaces.
The anticipated flow is 132 c.f.s. during a 50 year storm event; the capacity is 190 c.f.s.
Mr. Bord submitted newly revised plans today, December 14, 2004 that show erosion controls.
The disturbance along the road will have silt fence.
The plans also include the construction sequence. Construction will take place during low flow period, preferably this winter if funding is available, since this is a safety issue. A trap hood will be located at the last catch basin.
If construction takes place during the winter months, final grading, loam, seed, fertilizer and mulch would be installed in the spring, at which time the silt fence would be removed.
Mr. Angus added that the newly submitted information is to address concerns brought out at the Agency's previous meeting.
Members discussed proposed conditions of approval.
Mr. Bord anticipates that the entire project will take approximately 1 week, of which 1 to 2 days will be needed for the connection to the existing culvert to be made. He is willing to confer with Mr. Angus regarding the timing of the project to ensure that it is during a low flow period, although possibly not during the traditional low-flow period of June through September. Funding must be approved before any scheduling of work can begin.
Mr. Bord also stated that stockpiling of material will be next to the road along the project area and will include stone for use as base material under the pipe installation area.
A motion was made by Agent Poirot and seconded by Agent Tallarita to approve IW #428 with the standard 10 conditions in addition to the following, numbered 11 through 14:
11. Erosion and sediment controls must be installed in all upland review areas to contain exposed areas. The controls must remain in place until all exposed areas are permanently stabilized. Contact the Wetlands Agent for inspection of installation of the erosion and sediment controls prior to proceeding with project;
12. No materials are permitted to be stored within any wetlands, watercourses or floodplain areas. All stockpiled materials must be contained with the proper erosion and sediment controls;
13. In-stream construction activities shall take place only during low flow conditions (in agreement with the Wetlands Agent) to minimize excessive erosion and sedimentation as a result of excessive runoff and heavily saturated soils;
14. With the exception of the additional items stated in these conditions, this application is approved in accordance with the Site Plan entitled "Proposed Storm Drainage for Town Farm Road, Enfield, CT" prepared by Town of Enfield Public Works Department, Engineering Division, dated 11/10/2004; revised 12/14/04. Any changes that would potentially cause greater impact to wetlands or watercourses, such as enlargement or reorientation of structure footprints, from the plans and any denial or changes made by any other regulatory agency or commission shall require the permittee to come before the Enfield Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency for a Permit Modification or Determination of Permit Need (Jurisdictional Ruling).
Vote was 5-0-0. Reason for approval was that the applicant has demonstrated that the project will not adversely affect inland wetlands and watercourses.
Agent Tallarita left the meeting for the evening at this time (7:50 p.m.)
11. New Business
Agency-sponsored Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Regulation amendment to address 2004 Legislature amendments (Public Act 04-209) regarding changes to considerations for decisions by Inland Wetland and Watercourses Agencies [Agency-sponsored change - no time limits on scheduling, closing or decision].
Mr. Angus explained that the proposed amendment to the Regulations corresponds with the amended State Model of Regulations. The D.E.P. has been notified of the proposed amendments.
A motion was made by Agent Wawer and seconded by Agent Poirot to hold a public hearing on the Agency Sponsored Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Regulation Amendment on Tuesday, January 18, 2005 at 7:30 p.m. in the Enfield Room. Vote was 4-0-0.
IW#429 - Enfield Federal Credit Union for proposed commercial building, associated parking and drainage improvements involving excavation filling and grading within 100 feet of wetlands and watercourses. Property located on Cranbrook Blvd. (Map 56 Lot 29); Zoned BL; [Submitted December 8, 2004, Received December 14, 2004; PPE December 28, 2004; MAD February 17, 2005].
Alan Borghesi, Civil Engineer, represented the applicant.
Mr. Borghesi explained that the applicant would like to move their headquarters and operations center to Cranbrook Boulevard. The plans are for a 2,000 square foot building with drive in teller lanes.
The original plan was for a 4,000 square foot building but that would have had a negative impact on the wetlands.
The current proposal, according to Mr. Borghesi, will benefit the wetlands.
The site is approximately 1 acre in size. There are 2 wetlands on the site, one in the rear of approximately 240 square feet and one in the center right area, of approximately 5,700 square feet. The entire developed site is upland, except for the outlet of the proposed detention basin, to be located behind the building.
The flood plain is at 115; the building elevation will be at 116. Flood storage capacity will be increased by 10,935 cubic feet or 300 cubic yards.
Agency members reviewed the plan presented by Mr. Borghesi. He explained that the entire site has been disturbed. The site was once owned by 84 Lumber. A ford dealership parking lot borders the site to the east. Most drainage from this site will go the proposed basin, however, a small amount will go towards Cranbrook Boulevard, over a grass swale area for cleansing.
Mr. Borghesi then provided a narrative to address comments and concerns submitted by Mr. Angus earlier in the day. Among the responses, Mr. Borghesi stated that if required, curbs would be installed.
Alternative plans have been considered, however Mr. Borghesi and his client feel the proposed plan is the best.
The majority of the site is flat, graded from elevation 116 to 112 and construction will have no adverse effect on wetlands. Storm water runoff will be decreased. The detention basin will be approximately 1,000 square feet.
The Credit Union will be purchasing the property and will be responsible for the maintenance and snow stockpiling, which will be located in the rear of the property.
Agent Szewczak asked how a detention basin can be created in an area that is below the floodplain elevation. Theoretically, that area already holds standing water.
Mr. Angus reminded members that if a public hearing is deemed necessary, discussion at this time should be limited to requesting additional information for the hearing.
Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall asked that the regulated area be outlined on the plans. Mr. Borghesi stated that the 100' upland review area would encompass most of the site but he will add it to the plans.
Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall also requested that the FEMA map be provided. Cranbrook Boulevard often floods during heavy rain and the road is closed during that time. This project could create a significant impact.
Agents Wawer, Szewczak and Poirot agreed.
A motion was made by Agent Szewczak and seconded by Agent Wawer to table further discussion because this project could be considered a significant impact activity and a public hearing will be scheduled for Tuesday, January 18, 2005 at 7:30 p.m. in the Enfield Room. Vote was 4-0-0.
IW#430 - Carl and Anna Barresi for proposed addition involving excavation and filling within 100 feet of wetlands and watercourses. Property located at 1 Kimberly Drive (Map 86 Lot 95); Zoned R-33; [Submitted December 8, 2004, Received December 14, 2004; PPE December 28, 2004; MAD February 17, 2005].
Carl Barresi represented the applicant.
Mr. Barresi presented a photo of his existing home and property, including an in-ground pool that was previously approved by the IWWA. The applicant is proposing a 26' x 36' addition which will be located within the existing driveway.
Excess material will be hauled offsite. The building will be built up at the front elevation by approximately 3'.
Agent Szewczak asked about the grade to the left of the addition.
Mr. Barresi stated that the shed will be moved and the site will be sloped up from the existing retaining wall to the addition.
Agent Poirot asked if the 2 story addition will have roof drains.
Mr. Barresi answered that the roof drains will drain out near the pool. No underground leaders are planned.
Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall asked if the move of the shed is part of this application.
Mr. Barresi stated that the swale is 5' behind the shed. The swale only has moving water when it rains. Moving the shed is not currently part of this application.
Mr. Angus noted that 2 culverts (from Abbe Road and Kimberly Drive) connect and run behind Mr. Barresi's house and his neighbors'.
Mr. Barresi noted that his plans show the location of the proposed silt fence. The 14'x14' shed will be moved by bobcat around the front of the house to the new location.
Mr. Angus noted that the moving of the shed needs to be included in this application.
In response to a question by Agent Poirot, Mr. Barresi stated that he would like to begin work as soon as possible. He will be working from the driveway, excavating just deep enough for footings.
Agent Szewczak asked if a deck or porch off of the addition is planned. Mr. Barresi stated that the addition will consist of a 3 car garage with rooms above. No deck or porch is planned.
A motion was made by Agent Wawer and seconded by Agent Poirot to table further discussion on IW#430 until the meeting of January 18, 2005 at 7:30 p.m. Vote was 4-0-0.
12. Other Business
None.
o Next regular meeting will be Tuesday, January 18, 2005 at 7:30 PM in the Enfield Room.
13. Adjourn:
A motion was made by Agent Wawer and seconded by Agent Poirot to adjourn the meeting at 8:34 p.m. Vote was 4-0-0.
Respectfully Submitted,
Frank Poirot, Secretary
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