Ashland Conservation Commission approves stormwater permit, Bark Park shed and ratifies two emergency tree removals

The Ashland Conservation Commission met remotely on June 1, 2026, and approved several land‑use and emergency items, while continuing two Notices of Intent to a June 15 hearing.

The commission voted 6‑0 to continue the Notice of Intent and Request for Stormwater Management Permit for 55 Tilton Avenue and 60 Pleasant Street to the June 15 meeting after the applicant requested more time. Chair Gregory Wands announced the continuance request to the panel.

In the meeting’s primary permitting action, the commission approved the Stormwater Management Permit (SMP2026‑4) for 14 West Mountain Lane following a presentation by the applicant’s engineer, Mr. Tetreault. He said the updated plans add a soil‑stockpile area behind the house and include a general note requiring that, “the Conservation Commission shall be notified before blasting can commence.” Commissioners also required abutter notification and a pre‑blast survey as part of the pre‑blast sequence. After discussion on potential subdivision impacts to the lower portion of the lot and drainage considerations, the commission closed the hearing and issued the permit by roll call vote (6‑0‑0).

The commission approved a minor modification for the Ashland Bark Park (0 Memorial Drive) to allow an Eagle Scout to construct an 8‑by‑8 wooden tool shed on deck blocks with a small ramp and gravel pad. Beth Reynolds, Assistant Town Manager for Community Outreach and Community Affairs, said the shed would add a small amount of impervious surface but that the existing drainage basin can accommodate the increase. The permit for DEP 95‑1001 was approved 6‑0.

The commission ratified two emergency tree‑removal certifications. Agent Becca Solomon summarized the certification for 7 Lucy French Way, where three trees overtaken by bittersweet vines were removed because they posed a hazard to a nearby house; the trees were about 87 feet from the wetland boundary. The commission ratified that emergency action 6‑0. The commission also ratified an emergency certification for 54 Strobus Lane (owner Eugene Flemming); staff said Chris Orchard of Stumpy’s provided a Certified Arborist letter identifying stem decay in two maples and Emerald Ash Borer infection in a white ash. Solomon noted Massachusetts quarantine rules prohibit transporting infested wood out of state; the certification was ratified 6‑0.

On legislative comment, the commission reviewed and edited a time‑sensitive draft comment letter to the Massachusetts House regarding the MassReady Act. Resident and Historical Commission member Ms. Gonfrade testified during public comment that she believes the bill would “fundamentally penalize municipalities from protecting the environment and weakens local government.” After edits, the commission voted 6‑0 to approve the comment letter; staff said Solomon would finalize the text after the meeting.

Other business: the panel voted 7‑0 to accept the May 4, 2026 meeting minutes as amended and tabled review of the May 11 minutes. During member prerogative, Mr. Hakansson reported discussing Project DEP 95‑1018 (redevelopment of 10‑60 Main Street) with Mr. Lucas and said the applicant asked that commissioners forward questions in advance so answers can be provided at hearings. Agent Solomon noted she will be on vacation for two weeks in late July/early August and the commission discussed office coverage during that absence. The meeting adjourned at 8:29 p.m.

What’s next: Continued hearings for 55 Tilton Avenue and 90 Waverly Street are scheduled for June 15, 2026, at 7:04 p.m.; staff will finalize the MassReady Act comment letter and circulate it as authorized by the commission.