Selectmen approve conceptual clearing, seek bids for Hidden Springs DPW site with 100-foot brook buffer

The Alton Board of Selectmen on July 22 reviewed a conceptual design and authorized solicitation of bids to clear and prepare a building envelope at the Hidden Springs property to accommodate a future Department of Public Works facility, while adopting a 100-foot setback from Hurd Brook for the permitting package.

Board members say the item matters because clearing and permitting the parcel would establish a visible building envelope voters can understand before the town decides whether to seek bonding for construction. The board and staff repeatedly described the current work as conceptual and said any actual construction would require further approvals, funding votes and compliance with state Alteration of Terrain (AOT) permitting requirements.

Andre, a town presenter, told the board the conceptual plan was prepared to support an AOT permit and to show a potential footprint for a DPW building, storage areas and future recreational possibilities. He said the conservation commission requested a 100-foot buffer from Hurd Brook "which we accommodated," and that the town asked the…