Roxbury commission votes to retain engineer and environmental consultant for 65 Minor Bridge Road review

The Roxbury Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Commission voted at a July 3, 2024 special meeting to retain consultants to review a new application for 65 Minor Bridge Road, approving the hiring of engineer Steve Trinkus and environmental consultant Michael Klein.

Chair Russ opened the meeting and, after confirming a quorum, said the commission needed to correct an administrative omission because the earlier consultant retention did not apply to this new submission. Chair Russ said the commission wanted "facts" and "honest" analysis, adding, "we're not here to deny applications — we're here to learn if there is an impact." The commission debated whether to retain consultants immediately or wait until after the applicant's full presentation.

Jim Kelly objected to using one proposed engineer, saying he had concerns with Steve Trinkus and that Trinkus "tends to blow things up and goes overboard." Chair Russ responded that the commission would control the consultant's scope and keep reviews focused. Commissioner Sierra said she favored waiting until the commission "deemed it necessary so we don't waste money," while other members argued hiring now would speed the procurement process and allow consultants to provide cost estimates the applicant must pay up front under the town ordinance.

John Smiger moved to hire consultants immediately and to retain Steve Trinkus and Michael Klein to review the application; a second was recorded and the motion carried by voice vote. The commission did not record individual roll-call votes in the transcript; the motion was announced as carried. Chair Russ asked the applicant, Paul, to send the full application package and responses to prior consultant comments; Paul said the materials and the requested report would be provided early next week because of the holiday.

Chair Russ reminded members of the local timelines for hearings and decisions, noting the town's schedule of 35 days to call a public hearing and up to 65 days to make a decision (including extensions). The commission closed the special meeting after adopting the motion and exchanged holiday greetings.

The commission's action directs staff to notify the named consultants and to request scope and price estimates; the applicant will be responsible for paying the consultant estimate up front per the town ordinance. The transcript does not record a detailed scope of work, a formal contract award, or a roll-call vote tally.