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Commission accepts post‑facto causeway application; orders cleanup, reinforced erosion controls
Summary
The commission accepted a post‑facto wetlands application from Sierra Home Improvement concerning causeway repairs and other shore work, and ordered immediate improvements to silt fencing, temporary stabilization and a site cleanup plan; the applicant said town staff had previously approved emergency repairs.
The Internet Wetland Water Force Commission on March 19 accepted a post‑facto application from Sierra Home Improvement for causeway reinforcement and related shore work but directed immediate remediation measures and clearer engineered plans before final approval.
Commissioners said much of the work at the West Wakefield Boulevard property had proceeded without prior wetlands approval. One member said poured concrete visibly encroached beyond previously approved limits and urged removal and redesign if necessary. The commission emphasized the need for an engineered design for any seawall or causeway that will carry heavy construction traffic.
Brian O'Diggie, speaking for the contractor, said he had discussed the condition with staff before proceeding. "Prior to doing any work, Jeff and I spoke about it. He said go ahead and proceed," O'Diggie said. He told the commission the initial concrete work had been used to stabilize failing capstones and that the team planned further armoring to support access for construction equipment.
Staff and commissioners reported extensive site disturbance—felled trees, exposed soils and incomplete silt controls—and required immediate measures including double waddles or reinforced silt fencing, temporary grass matting and an armored sediment pit for the proposed well. Commissioners asked that the perimeter controls be improved so contractors can work without sending additional sediment toward the lake; one member suggested an outer perimeter line plus a secondary line closer to the water.
The applicant agreed to meet with staff and to try to remove heavy equipment within a week to allow remediation and temporary stabilization, and he said the landscaping plan and other permit details would be provided to the commission. After that discussion, the commission voted to accept application IWWC‑26‑4 for processing and directed staff to circulate consultant review as needed. The commission left unresolved any requirement to remove or rebuild the currently poured concrete pending engineering input.
