Board members ask for fuller site and environmental plans for proposed 17M service station

Chair opened discussion of MC 3 Ventures’ proposed service-station site on 17M, saying the layout shown to the board is substantially different from prior submissions and that applicants may seek variances to allow vehicle display and parking in front of the building.

Members of the planning panel said the applicant has appeared before planning and zoning and will likely need variances, including a request reported at a March 5 planning meeting for two rows of front parking where the town engineer, Sean Hoffman, said only one row is allowed without a variance. Committee members said the current packet lacks screening details required by town code 97-14 (which allows front parking only if screened) and does not show consistent plans for lighting, septic or drainage.

Speakers emphasized environmental concerns that must be addressed in updated plans before substantive board action. One committee member said the parcel’s lot line and encroachment issues are unresolved and that the applicant may be proposing to move a lot line; another urged the applicant to present clear details on oil- and chemical-handling measures, interior drains, and whether operations will include mechanical servicing rather than bodywork. Board members also noted nearby residential property and recommended screening, fencing or planting and firm commitments on where runoff and roof and pavement drainage will be directed.

No formal motion or vote occurred; members said they would withhold detailed endorsement until a complete site plan — including wastewater/drainage plans, lighting maps, and screening — is submitted and reviewed.