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Residents press Ocean Ridge P&Z on artificial turf, impervious surface and drainage
Summary
Public commenters and commissioners raised concerns about artificial turf, impermeable surfaces and drainage; staff said artificial‑turf rules are pending and that one project measures just under 40% imperviousness versus a 30% pervious minimum.
Residents and commissioners raised questions about artificial turf and impervious‑surface limits during both project reviews. An emailed comment from Ocean Ridge homeowner Nancy Venezia warned that allowing nonporous surfaces to cover most lots can prevent soil absorption and increase flooding for neighbors; the comment asked why proposed construction that increases impermeable cover is being permitted.
Staff said the town's artificial‑turf ordinance is still in a proposed rule stage and was tabled at the town commission while staff waits for state guidance; the planner observed some artificial turf systems can be more pervious than compacted soil. During discussion, staff noted the 20 Hudson project measures just under 40% impervious (the town's pervious requirement is a minimum of 30% pervious), and commissioners debated whether to require an approved artificial‑turf color palette and perviousness documentation for future permits.
