Neighbors raise wetlands and runoff concerns as council tables Lawrence Street right‑of‑way request

At the April 7 meeting several residents and a prospective buyer spoke during audience participation about a request to bring a 40‑foot segment of Lawrence Street up to road standards so a duplex may be built on a rear lot. Paul Bernell, who said he was under contract to sell the lot, told the council he was prepared to pay for and perform the road work if the town would allow it and inspect materials.

Neighbors and others raised concerns about wetlands, runoff and tree clearing. ‘‘I called the Environmental Protection Agency...there is no evidence of any letter being submitted to change the designation away from those being protected wetlands,” said Paulette Cyr, urging caution and more investigation.

Staff and councilors described the parcel as likely a town 'paper street' (land laid out for a road but not constructed) and said any authorization should be conditional on permits, wetland permits and planning‑board or subdivision review as appropriate. One councilor said he wanted detailed plans, subdivision status and evidence of whether the town had ever formally relinquished ownership of the paper street before voting to permit private development.

Following discussion the council voted to table the authorization to develop the town right‑of‑way so staff and the applicant can provide additional details, including wetlands verification and site plans.

What’s next: the applicant was advised to work with code enforcement and planning staff to assemble site plans, environmental documentation, and a permitting timeline; the item will return to the council once information is complete.