Conservation Commission approves pool at 11 Black Horse Lane with 2:1 buffer mitigation

Chair Chris McIntyre opened the hearing for NOI 26‑04, and Dillon Brady of Brady Consulting presented the proposal on behalf of applicant Michael O’Leary to construct an in‑ground pool and pervious patio within the 100‑foot buffer and land subject to coastal storm flowage.

Brady said the work is proposed in previously developed lawn and all work would remain outside the 50‑foot buffer. Because portions of the work fall within land subject to coastal storm flowage, the applicant proposed a 2:1 mitigation plan of native shrubs and seeding to enhance the buffer. Conservation Agent Charlotte Pechtl noted revised plans tightened limits of work and recommended special conditions for mitigation planting coordination, hand installation, prohibition on removal of native vegetation, and invasive species management.

The Commission discussed pool operation and discharge and adopted a condition prohibiting pool water discharge to resource areas. Commissioner Will Ashton moved to close the hearing and issue an Order of Conditions with standard and the recommended special conditions; the motion passed on a 6–0 roll call. The Commission also granted a variance for work within the coastal bank and land subject to coastal storm flowage by a 6–0 vote.

The Order of Conditions requires coordination with the Conservation Agent, hand planting for mitigation, no removal of native vegetation in the buffer, and best management practices for pool operation. Roll call votes were recorded: Tom Bell—Aye; Steve Magnell—Aye; Kathy Berigan—Aye; Will Ashton—Aye; Sanji Fernando—Aye; Chris McIntyre—Aye.