Commission sets two-week deadline for engineer to assess stormwater issue

During the Conservation Commission meeting held on January 8, 2025, in Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, significant discussions centered around a contentious stormwater management issue affecting local properties. The meeting highlighted ongoing disputes regarding property lines and water drainage, which have raised concerns among residents.

The primary issue discussed involved a property owner who allegedly altered the lot line, moving it four feet into a neighboring property. This change has led to complications with stormwater runoff, as water from the altered property is now flowing onto adjacent land, potentially undermining retaining walls and causing further erosion. Residents expressed frustration over the lack of resolution, noting that they have been dealing with these issues for over three years.

Commission members acknowledged the need for an engineering assessment to determine the proper grading and drainage solutions. They discussed the urgency of obtaining this information, especially with worsening weather conditions. A timeline of two weeks was proposed for the property owner to provide the necessary engineering data, although the commission recognized that the timeline could be affected by the engineer's availability.

In addition to the stormwater concerns, the meeting also touched on the implications of extending property boundaries into local waterways, which raises questions about environmental regulations and community standards. The commission emphasized the importance of addressing these issues promptly to prevent further complications.

As the meeting concluded, the commission voted to formally request the engineering information within the specified timeframe, reflecting their commitment to resolving the ongoing disputes and ensuring proper stormwater management in the community. The discussions underscored the critical intersection of property rights, environmental stewardship, and community relations, highlighting the need for continued dialogue and action in addressing these pressing local issues.