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Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Meeting
INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES AGENCY
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, MAY 4, 2004
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency was held on Tuesday, May 4, 2004 in the Enfield Room, Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut. Chairperson Gretchen Pfeifer-Hall called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
PRESENT: Gretchen Pfeifer-Hall, Chairperson
Michael Mosschetti
Frank Poirot
E. Patrick Storey
Richard Szewczak
Louis V. Tallarita
David J. Wawer, Alternate
ABSENT: Joseph Jedynak
ALSO PRESENT: Neil Angus, Wetlands Agent
Susan Berube, Recording Secretary
PUBLIC HEARING(S)
1. Hearings: None.
REGULAR MEETING
1. Call to Order:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall at 7:00 p.m.
2. Pledge Allegiance to the Flag
3. Roll Call:
Present were: Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall and Agents Moschetti, Poirot, Storey, 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. Correspondence:
Items of correspondence were as follows:
" letter dated 4/30/04 from Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall to ERT Coordinator requesting review of a proposed 77 unit senior residential development;
" letter dated 4/29/04 from Mr. Angus to Nuger Realty Limited Partnership regarding a large amount of trash and debris at the rear of 841 Enfield Street;
" letter dated 4/29/04 from Mr. Angus to Linda Ronin regarding discharge of wastewater to wetlands adjacent to 809 Enfield Street;
" letter dated 4/29/04 from Mr. Angus to David & Gale Latorra regarding above ground pool at 23 Cooper Street;
" open letter to all property owners abutting Waterworks Brook from Mr. Angus, dated 4/30/04, regarding keeping the channel of the brook and its banks clean;
" letter from Mr. Angus to Bob DiGennaro, Somerset Development Corp, dated 4/27/04 regarding compliance with IW#323 at 38 Abbe Road;
" letter dated 4/27/04 from Mr. Angus to Carl Gates, 2 Light Street regarding the need for an Inland Wetland permit for a proposed above ground pool;
" memo dated 4/26/04 from DEP to CT Inland Wetlands Agencies regarding availability of IWWA Activity Reporting Report for the year 2001;
" Approval of Authorization from CT D.E.P. dated 4/16/04 to CT D.O.T. regarding D.O.T. Project #48-173 (intersection of Rte 190 with Palomba Dr. and Middle Rd.);
" notice of meeting re: trail and greenway systems on 5/6/04 at Tolland County Agricultural Center. Mr. Angus also noted that Mr. Welti will be reviewing his letter from 1999 regarding escarpment slopes to help develop consistent regulations for development near these slopes.
7. Commissioner's Correspondence:
There was no Commissioner's Correspondence brought up for discussion.
8. Approval of Minutes -- April 20, 2004 Meeting:
A motion was made by Agent Storey and seconded by Agent Wawer to approve the minutes of the meeting of April 20, 2004 as presented.
Agent Wawer was seated for Agent Jedynak and empowered by Chairperson Pheifer-Hall to vote as a regular member.
9. Wetlands Agent Report - April 15, 2004 through April 28, 2004:
Mr. Angus briefly reviewed the Agent's Report and building permit list. Most items in the Report are addressed in correspondence or as part of this meeting's agenda.
He also noted an addition to his report - "IWWA Determination for Enfield Housing Rehabilitation Program Projects".
10. Old Business
IW#407 of Dennis Rand/Hull Forest Products for four (4) temporary wetland/watercourse crossings associated with a selective cutting forestry operation. Property located on the south side of Weymouth Road (Map 16 Lot 40); Zoned R-44; [Submitted February 24, 2004; Received March 2, 2004; PPE March 16, 2004; MAD May 6, 2004]:
Mr. Dennis Rand represented the applicant.
Mr. Angus noted the letter from Mr. Rand, received 4/27/04 which outlines his overall plan in response to concerns by the Agency.
In response to a question by Agent Storey, Mr. Rand stated that a minimum 4" culvert would be used. It would be larger if necessary but 4" to 6" should be enough. He stated that there is normally not a great deal of flow during drier times of year; it is an intermittent stream.
Agent Storey asked how the appropriate size would be determined and Mr. Angus suggested that the Engineering Department could review and approve an appropriate size for the project.
Mr. Rand stated that the timing of the project would be 6 weeks maximum.
Agent Storey asked if, when the entrances are returned to their original condition if something could also be constructed or installed to discourage ATV and dirt bike entrance to the site. He noted it creates an "attractive nuisance".
Mr. Angus explained that the owner has already experienced problems with trash and debris being dumped on the apron/curb cut and has posted signs.
Mr. Rand added that kids are already entering the site through a field located to the east of the property.
Mr. Angus, in response to a question by Agent Poirot, stated that the curb cuts and apron are on the Right-of-Way only and do not extend into the property.
He also expects the Agency to receive an application for development of the property in the near future.
Agency members discussed the size and location of the culvert and other suggested conditions provided by Mr. Angus.
Agent Szewczak and Agent Storey stated that they would be comfortable leaving the sizing and location of the culvert to the Engineering Department.
Mr. Rand added that the culvert would likely be of steel construction and larger than 4". Also, at proposed crossing #1 there is a 2" pipe with a steady flow and no backup. He added that he was willing to work with all of the suggested conditions of approval.
Mr. Angus added that slash piles and tops should not be left on site and recommended an additional condition that they be removed.
He also added that he walked the property with representatives of the Forestry Division of the D.E.P. and they will be notified once the project starts and will be overseeing the work as well.
In response to Agent Wawer's question, Mr. Angus noted that the Forestry Division does not oversee every logging operation. This is an unusual site due to the wetness and the presence of numerous vernal pools.
A motion was made by Agent Poirot and seconded by Agent Storey to approve IW #407 with the 10 standard conditions, in addition to the following:
11. The Forester is to contact the Wetlands Agent a minimum of two days prior to the proposed commencement of the harvesting operation. The Forester and Agent must agree on the timing of the activities and will assess the site conditions at that time and employ the necessary Best Management practices to minimize on and off-site erosion and sedimentation. Additional controls will be installed by the Forester at the discretion of the Wetlands Agent. Once the operation is complete, the Forester must contact the Wetlands Agent for a follow-up inspection of the site. Any outstanding land stabilization issues before, during and after the operation must be resolved to the satisfaction of the Wetlands Agent. Failure to comply with these requirements will constitute a violation of this permit approval and be subject to enforcement action.
12. Culvert sizes and installation to satisfaction of Town Engineer.
13. Entrance areas are temporary in nature and must be reclaimed to original conditions. Entrance areas are to be constructed in a manner that does not impede existing drainage patterns;
14. No machinery or skidding trails are permitted in wetland areas (with the exception of the permitted crossings and access). Clear-cutting in and within 100 feet of these areas is strictly prohibited;
15. All permitted crossings must have proper stabilization methods in place to avoid rutting and bank disturbance. When crossings are removed, the area must be reclaimed to its original condition and grade. To avoid permanent disturbance, no excavation is permitted in relation to these crossings, with the exception of water bars in the upland areas if required. Exposed wetland areas are to be seeded with a wetland seed mixture. Disturbed upland soils are to be seeded with a conservation seed mixture and hayed.
16. No slash piles or tops or woodchips permitted to be left on site.
17. With the exception of the addition of the items stated in these conditions, this application is approved in accordance with the plans and application narrative submitted on February 24, 2004 ( narrative - 2 page letter from Dennis Rand). Any changes that would potentially cause greater impact to wetlands or watercourses shall require the permitee to come before the Enfield Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency for a request for Modification or a Determination of Permit Need (Jurisdictional Ruling).
Vote was 7-0-0.
Reason for approval was that the applicant has demonstrated that the project will not adversely affect wetlands and watercourses.
11. IW#410 of Camerota Truck Parts for the construction of a 29,000 sq.ft. industrial building, parking area and associated drainage improvements involving excavation, filling and regrading within 100 feet of wetlands. Property located at 239 Shaker Road (Map 94 Lot 10); Zoned I-2; [Submitted March 31, 2004; Received April 6, 2004; PPE April 20, 2004; MAD June 10, 2004]:
Michael Camerota, Michael Gragnolatti, and Wes Wentworth, P.E., represented the applicant.
Mr. Wentworth stated that he met with Staff after the last IWWA meeting to address concerns that were brought up by Staff and the Agency.
He stated that the site is very flat and without pitch, the water will not flow at the front of the property, where it is very low.
He proposes filling that area so that there is no longer a low spot. He also proposes to fill in the man made ditch between the two driveways. He stated it is a low functional quality watercourse, in his opinion. Zoning Regulations require screening and landscaping, which would be done in the filled-in areas.
He also spoke about the detention basin outlet. He now proposes that it be graded down to the minimum amount required. The water will continue to travel west as it does now. For the 6' wide swale, an 8' limit of construction with fencing would be required. A small track excavator, not larger than 8' would be used.
The stockpile would be located outside of the wetland area and the disturbed wetland area would be stabilized with jute netting and appropriate seed mix.
Filter fabric will be added to the detention basin and the wetland enhancement plan is being expanded.
Details to the plan such as silt fence and hoods have been added.
Reinforced bituminous curbing has been added next to the swale.
In response to a question by Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall, Mr. Wentworth stated that he felt that a vortechnic unit is not necessary, and, according to an email, the Town Engineer concurs. He also noted that Tri-State Diesel used bituminous curbing on their project.
Agent Szewczak noted an error on the plans, which stated that rip rap would extend beyond the swale into the wetlands (page 3 of 9).
Mr. Wentworth stated that it would be removed from the plans. Only jute netting will extend into the wetlands, not rip-rap.
Also, in response to other questions by Agent Szewczak, Mr. Wentworth stated that the existing right of way drainage flows north.
Also, there is a high point between the 2 catch basins in the front entry way. Only an 8' portion drains into the road. West of the property line, all water will drain into the site. A large portion of the area will be filled so water will flow onto the site where it now flows along the roadway.
Mr. Angus expressed concern that the calculations don't take into account the drainage from the Right-of-Way, which includes Shaker Road drainage. The swale travels along the right-of-way.
Mr. Wentworth stated that the swale is not functioning in that area, until you come to the northern part of the property. Only small areas of the road are draining into the swale.
Mr. Wentworth added that the 2 entrances will not impede flows because the grass and apron will be higher and direct the flow towards the swale. The apron pitches from the street line to the edge of the existing apron.
Mr. Angus noted that this is not a typical driveway and the applicant is proposing to fill an intermittent watercourse, possibly causing disruption in the natural flow and functions of the watercourse. He referred to an email from Mr. Cabibbo which suggested the use of an elongated catch basin, allowing the flows to continue.
Mr. Wentworth was unsure if a "slot drain" would be appropriate for this site, being unfamiliar with the weight loads they are designed for.
Also, there are no flows or velocity to self-clean the unit and he feels that the loss of the wetland is remedial.
In response to a question by Agent Wawer, Mr. Camerota stated that cost is not an issue. It is an issue of function and appearance. He added that the building has been moved twice on paper to the east, in order to create a buffer.
Mr. Frank Camerota noted that the "slot drains" work well indoors, but become packed with ice in winter.
Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall noted that elimination of the ditch by approximately 100' would allow only 40% of the drainage to receive some renovation before entering the wetlands.
Mr. Angus added that it is not up to the Agency to create a design for the applicant.
Drainage does flow through the area and the applicant states that it will be picked up on a gravel road, which is no longer in a defined channel and could create erosion.
Mr. Wentworth disagreed, feeling that the proposed paved gutter way held adequate capacity.
Mr. Camerota stated his willingness to abide by whatever condition the Agency decided upon.
Mr. Angus noted that the addition of a slotted drain would require a modification of the plans and landscape plans.
Mr. Wentworth stated that the trees could still likely be squeezed in and the area hydro-seeded with seed mix.
Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall suggested continuing this application until the plans are modified.
Other Agency members felt comfortable in allowing the Town Engineer's office work with Mr. Angus on the details of the slot drain system.
A motion was made by Agent Storey and seconded by Agent Tallarita to approve IW #410 with the 10 standard conditions in addition to the following:
11. No external vehicle repairs or chemical storage are permitted as part of this approval;
12. The swale into wetlands is to be permanently stabilized with jute netting and a wetland seed mix. Regular maintenance of this area is not to extend beyond the limits of disturbance as shown on the plan. Any future extension/expansion of this area will constitute a violation of the Enfield Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Regulations and this permit;
13. Wetland enhancement planting area is to be extended 70' east. Wetland enhancement planting quantities must be doubled (from plan sheet 3 of 9 dated 3-30-04, revised 4-22-04). The landscape plan is to be revised to include the extended wetland enhancement planting area.
14. A wetland enhancement bond in an amount to be approved by the Wetlands Agent, must be posted prior to commencement of activities on-site. The bond is to cover the cost of enhancement plantings and wetland stabilization work associated with the detention basin and outlet structure. The bond shall not be released until all plantings have been installed and maintained for a period of one to two years (depending on the time of year the plantings are installed);
15. The swale on the west side of the Right-of-Way will be maintained and a slotted drain or equivalent drainage method across the driveways will be installed. The configuration of the drain and swale must be approved by the Town Engineer. The Maintenance Plan will be revised to address the maintenance of this area.
16. The Wetlands Agent will not sign off on the certificate of occupancy until all disturbed areas are temporarily and/or permanently stabilized;
17. The Snow Stockpiling area must be clearly defined and signed. These areas must be identified on a plan and be provided to the snow removal contractor;
18. Wetland construction activities for the detention outlet shall take place only during low flow conditions (generally June 1 through September 30) to minimize excessive erosion and sedimentation as a result of excessive runoff and heavily saturated soils.
19. Catch basins 2 and 8 must have 4' sumps and be equipped with oil/water separator devices;
20. All Engineering comments and concerns must be addressed prior the issuance of a building permit;
21. With the exception of the additional items stated in these conditions, this application is approved in accordance with Site Plans prepared for Camerota Truck Parts, 239 Shaker Road., Enfield, CT by Aeschelman Land Surveying, PC and Wentworth Civil Engineers, LLC, Sheets 1 through 9, dated March 30, 2004, Revised through April 22, 2004. 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 permitee to come before the Enfield Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency for a Permit Modification or Determination of Permit Need (Jurisdictional Ruling).
Vote was 7-0-0.
Reason for approval was that the project, with mitigation, will not adversely affect wetlands and watercourses.
A motion was made by Agent Storey and seconded by Agent Szewczak to hold a brief recess at 8:50 p.m. Vote was 7-0-0.
Call to Order:
Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall reconvened the meeting at 8:55 p.m.
Roll Call:
Present were: Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall and Agents Moschetti, Poirot, Storey, Szewczak, Tallarita, and Wawer.
Also present were Neil Angus, Wetlands Agent, and Susan Berube, Recording Secretary.
Agent Wawer remained seated for Agent Jedynak and empowered to vote for the remainder of this meeting.
11. New Business
IW#411 of Judith Jackson for a proposed 16'x 32' in-ground pool and 8' patio involving excavation and regrading within 100 feet of wetlands. Property located at 70 Steele Road (Map 52 Lot 49); Zoned R-33 [Submitted April 28, 2004; Received May 4, 2004; PPE May 18, 2004; MAD July 8, 2004]:
Mr. Tom Froment and his future daughter-in-law Judith Jackson, represented the applicant.
Mr. Froment explained his proposal to install an in-ground pool on the property. He presented digital photos to the Agency members for review. He explained that the yard has been well maintained for many years.
Mr. Angus explained that the plans show temporary stockpile areas, erosion and sediment control methods, limits of disturbance and the access point.
Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall asked if the stockpile would be re-used.
Mr. Froment explained that some would be re-used. The remainder would be removed from the site. The pool will be concrete.
In response to a question by Agent Poirot, Mr. Froment stated that the pool pitches toward the back with an 8" stone area for splash off. The outlet for backwash will be directed either down the driveway or onto the back lawn without creating ruts.
Mr. Angus noted that if the water is allowed to flow down the driveway, it will end up in the brook through the storm water catch basin without receiving any renovation. It may be more beneficial to allow the water to drain through the grass to allow for filtration prior to discharge into the brook.
A motion was made by Agent Storey and seconded by Agent Szewczak that a public hearing is not necessary due to it not being a significant impact activity and that this application be tabled until the meeting of May 18, 2004. Vote was 7-0-0.
IW#412 of Phoenix Life Insurance Company for storm water outfall restoration involving excavation and filling in wetlands. Property located at 100 Brightmeadow Blvd. (Map 35 Lot 220); Zoned BR [Submitted April 28, 2004; Received May 4, 2004; PPE May 18, 2004; MAD July 8, 2004]:
Agent Szewczak excused himself from this application due to a potential conflict of interest and left the meeting for the remainder of the evening at 9:07 p.m.
Mr. Stanley Dynia and Derek Jones of GZA Environmental represented the applicant.
Mr. Dynia explained that the applicant wishes to remove sediment from a plunge pool located at the north end of the east parking lot on the property.
The wetlands have been delineated.
The plan is to restore the pool to its original state (remove accumulated sediment) in conjunction with a transfer of ownership from Phoenix Mutual to Mass Mutual.
An earth mover and hand tools will be used to remove approximately 20 cubic yards of sediment.
It is anticipated that the removal will be finished within one day with erosion control, piping, hay bales and restoration of the area to be done prior to and after the removal.
This is an area of high groundwater and the culverts run continuously. There will be no change in the wetlands. He added that some Staghorn Sumac will be removed to allow use of the excavator.
The area will be re-planted with appropriate plantings.
Upon inspection of three catch basins, it was found that they need to be cleaned and this will be done. Hoods will be installed on the outlet pipes of the catch basins.
Members reviewed the site map.
In response to a question by Agent Poirot regarding rip-rap, Mr. Dynia explained that geo-technical fabric will be placed under the rip rap. Otherwise the existing pool will be replicated.
He added that the installation of hood on 3 catch basins is part of this application, however, there may be an additional application in the future due to other expansion projects planned by Mass Mutual.
Chairperson Pfeifer-Hall asked if a vortechnic unit had been considered for the catch basins.
Mr. Dynia responded that the catch basins have sumps. The sediment buildup is from lack of maintenance. A new storm water management plan will be implemented and should alleviate future problems.
Any future application would supercede conditions placed on this permit.
A motion was made by Agent Storey and seconded by Agent Moschetti that this application does not constitute a significant impact activity and that it be tabled until the meeting of May 18, 2004. Vote was 6-0-0.
12. Other Business
Legal procedure review:
Mr. Angus suggested that members meet informally for 45 -60 minutes prior to the next few meetings to meet with the Town's attorney.
He will schedule these sessions well in advance and will try to reserve the Enfield Room for those meetings. All Agency members agreed.
Discussion on Proposed Regulation Amendments:
1. Map Amendments:
No update
2. Text Amendments (escarpment slopes):
Mr. Angus is waiting for a written update from Mr. Welti.
o Next regular meeting will be Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers
13. Adjourn:
A motion was made by Agent Wawer and seconded by Agent Storey to adjourn the meeting at 9:43 p.m. Vote was 6-0-0.
Respectfully Submitted,
_________________________
Frank Poirot, Secretary
Last Updated: Friday, May 28, 2004 |