During a recent government meeting, discussions centered around an application for maintenance activities at the Salem Turnpike shopping center, specifically addressing flooding issues caused by a choked stream. Daryl Birchman, representing the Harry Lizer Revocable Trust, detailed the ongoing challenges faced over the past 15 years, including repeated flooding of the parking lot that has affected local businesses, including a surgery center and the Red Cross.

Birchman explained that the stream, which should ideally be 15 to 20 feet wide, has been reduced to as little as one foot in some areas due to sediment buildup and vegetation growth. This obstruction has led to water overflow onto the parking lot, creating safety concerns for emergency access and operational disruptions for the surgery center.

The applicant has proposed a plan to remove the accumulated sediment and restore the stream to its original width to ensure proper water flow. Birchman emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the flooding has occurred multiple times, even during what was initially thought to be a rare storm event.

The meeting included inquiries about the proposed maintenance plan and its expected impact on the flooding issue. Birchman expressed confidence that the restoration efforts would alleviate the flooding and improve safety for both the businesses and the community. The commission is expected to review the application further, considering the implications for local infrastructure and emergency services.