Commissioners ask staff to draft heliport rules, clarify pervious‑surface policy and monitor proposed solar farm

The Winchester Planning and Zoning Commission asked staff to research existing local regulations on heliports after Commissioner Paganelli notified the commission he may seek a helipad for a privately owned mixed‑use property.

Commissioners said current town regulations mention heliports only in the context of urgent‑care medical facilities and asked staff to compile examples from nearby towns. The commission noted that private or commercial heliports could raise separate questions about flight paths and federal or state approvals and that the Federal Aviation Administration and state siting or permitting bodies may be involved depending on scale and use.

Commissioners also directed staff to develop clearer guidance on when gravel, crushed‑stone or engineered stone surfaces should be treated as impervious. Staff reported they will prepare a diagnosis and suggested regulatory tweaks to distinguish stone used as an infiltration practice from gravel counted as impervious surface; commissioners raised maintenance and on‑site inspection as important implementation points.

On renewable energy, commissioners discussed the Ahern/“Sleep” project and other proposed large solar installations. Commissioners noted that large facilities over one megawatt typically proceed through the state Siting Council and that DEP would oversee erosion and sediment controls. Staff said they are attempting to arrange an informational session with the project representative and that wetlands and state permitting processes will determine detailed controls. Commissioners asked staff to monitor the project closely so the town can seek concessions or input where possible.