Iron Tails owner urges progress on conditional-use changes; Select Board authorizes fire coverage for upcoming events

Greg Martinez, owner of Iron Tails, used the Select Board’s public-comment period to describe an ongoing dispute with the Planning Board over conditional-use changes and parking/engineering requirements for his venue.

Martinez said he withdrew an application to focus on the costly engineering (stormwater) work and accused the process of repeatedly conflating conditional-use and engineering matters, delaying resolution. He said two noise studies were requested and that he will attempt a reading the following Sunday to establish a baseline; he said he will correct any noncompliance he discovers.

Select Board member Tom McGurty and the Town Administrator encouraged Martinez to resume engagement with the Code Officer and Planning Board so public hearings and technical work can proceed in parallel. The Fire Chief said the department will likely provide two staffers for Martinez’s events if the organizer submits dates and a written request; McGurty moved to authorize the engagement of two Fire Department staff for Martinez’s events and the motion passed unanimously.

Martinez said he also intends to hire law enforcement for public-safety presence, and the board noted that local police or the Sheriff’s Department would be the appropriate contacts. The Select Board reiterated that a Mass Gathering Permit or conditional-use amendment does not override Planning Board conditional-use requirements and advised Martinez to provide required documentation promptly.