Stratford commission orders soil‑scientist delineation, threatens fines for 160 Disbrow fill

The Stratford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission directed staff to require the owner of 160 Disbrow Street to retain a soil scientist to delineate wetland boundaries and to submit the report in time for the commission’s February meeting. Commissioners discussed enforcement escalation and mentioned daily monetary penalties as a means to compel compliance.

Staff reported evidence that asphalt millings and other fill were recently brought onto the 160 Disbrow property and that aerial mapping and neighborhood observations show an historical brook or channel that previously conveyed flow through the rear of several properties. Staff said determining whether fill is placed within a regulated wetland or only the upland review area requires a professional wetland delineation.

Commissioners discussed interim remedies (planting, outreach, targeted remediation) but emphasized the need for an independent soil scientist’s report to determine jurisdiction and next steps. One commissioner proposed a deadline and $100 per day penalty if the owner failed to provide the report; commissioners agreed to require submission by the commission’s schedule (materials to Kelly by the first Wednesday of the month to permit staff review before the meeting). The motion (moved by Mister Pia, seconded by Dr. Chesler) carried.

Next steps: staff will send a required‑action letter demanding a wetland delineation, identify the submission deadline (first Wednesday in February to align with agenda deadlines) and state that enforcement escalation will follow if the report is not received.