Inland wetlands agency approves expanded rear deck at One Pine Point Drive with 10-foot buffer and bond

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Agency approved application 253 from Odit Bedat to remove an existing rear deck and construct a new deck at One Pine Point Drive, subject to conditions meant to protect the adjacent pond.

Consultant Matthew Pop described the property as a peninsula with lawn to the pond and a scattering of mature trees. Staff recommended revisions to the plan to show the apple tree proposed for removal, to map any stockpile or disturbance area, and to establish a 10-foot buffer along the pond that would be maintained as a meadow, cut perhaps twice a year. Pop said the commission should require certification in writing after work is completed and recommended a $1,500 bond to ensure buffer plantings are installed.

Commission discussion focused on the size of the replacement deck (noted in the packet as increasing from about 316 square feet to roughly 707 square feet), the presence of a large oak tree on the lot, and whether the $1,500 bond would sufficiently cover potential tree removal or mitigation. Commissioners added an explicit condition prohibiting any additional tree removals without first returning to the commission for approval. With those conditions, the commission moved to accept the decision-session application and the motion carried.

The conditions for approval include revising the plan to show the tree to be removed and the disturbance area, establishing and planting a 10-foot meadow buffer along the pond, providing written certification upon completion, and posting a $1,500 bond to secure the plantings. The commission did not specify who made the motion on the record; the decision will be memorialized in the meeting minutes and the permit packet.