Danvers conservation panel approves after‑the‑fact dock work at 80 Water Street

The Town of Danvers Conservation Commission on Jan. 22 approved an Order of Conditions for after‑the‑fact work on an existing dock at 80 Water Street (DEP File No. 14‑1433). The applicant, Peter McKinnon, was represented by David Cowell, senior wetland scientist for Hancock Associates.

Commissioners discussed recommendations from the Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) and the Harbor Master. DMF recommended a 30‑inch minimum clearance under the dock, while the applicant proposed an 18‑inch clearance; the commission record notes that the dock was verified to be outside shellfish habitat and that DMF confirmed the 18‑inch clearance was acceptable. The Harbor Master recommended changing anchoring from helical piles to two 500‑pound concrete blocks and removing skirt boards to allow water flow; the Order of Conditions requires removal of skirt boards.

The commission also noted that additional permits are required before or during work, including a Chapter 91 Waterways License and an Army Corps maintenance permit. A motion to close the public hearing, to grant waivers for the 35‑foot No‑Disturb Zone and the 50‑foot No‑Build Zone, and to issue the Order of Conditions was moved by Michael Splaine, seconded by Peter Wilson, and approved unanimously, 5–0. The Order states the work may begin “as soon as is practicable,” subject to the listed conditions and any outstanding state or federal approvals.

David Cowell appeared in the record as the applicant’s representative; no public opposition was recorded in the minutes. The commission did not name a specific date to begin work; the Order ties commencement to permit compliance and practical considerations.