In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposal for a new drive-thru fast food restaurant at 421 Daniel Webster Highway, located within the C2 General Commercial Elderly Overlay and Town Center Overlay Districts. The project, presented by Sayed Sip from USA Chicken and Biscuit, aims to convert an existing building into a fast food service, having already received zoning board approval.

Sip outlined the restaurant's operational plans, emphasizing that it is a small family business rather than a large franchise. The establishment will feature a seating capacity for 16 patrons and employ five staff members per shift. Concerns were raised regarding the management of grease and oil, which are significant byproducts of fast food operations. The town's sewer inspector, Michael Gorman, recommended the installation of an exterior grease trap, citing the potential for substantial grease production and the need for effective waste management.

Sip expressed willingness to comply with the recommendation but noted that their previous locations utilized interior grease traps without issue. He highlighted the importance of understanding the rationale behind the external trap requirement, especially given the restaurant's smaller scale compared to typical fast food franchises.

The meeting also addressed logistical aspects of the project, including the existing building's layout, which will remain largely unchanged, and the drive-thru configuration, which will be adjusted from two lanes to one. The proposal includes provisions for proper waste disposal and snow removal, ensuring minimal impact on surrounding properties.

As the planning board continues to evaluate the proposal, the focus remains on balancing the needs of the business with environmental and community considerations, particularly due to the site's location within an aquifer protection district. The outcome of this meeting will be pivotal in determining the future of the fast food venture in Merrimack.