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Commission weighs options for animal shelter after SLR site report flags soils and wetlands
Summary
After an SLR site evaluation, the commission discussed whether the existing Francis Park sites are feasible for an animal shelter, agreed to meet with economic development and Dan Carter, and said next steps include engineering/survey work or exploring purchase/rental options.
The commission discussed results of an SLR site evaluation and possible paths for locating a town animal shelter, noting site constraints and several alternate options.
Staff said the SLR report assessed a number of Francis Park parcels; many have poor subsoils, steep topography and wetland or floodplain constraints. One participant said the report was not definitive about suitability for an animal shelter and recommended targeted engineering—survey and soil testing—to determine whether a building could fit.
Members discussed alternatives: engineer the existing town parcel (which could require variances and extensive ground work), purchase a new parcel and fund soil/permit work, partner with a neighboring town to rent/provide space, or evaluate other town‑owned parcels such as land near the sewer plant. A few members noted that permitting (wetlands, floodplain) could add delay and cost.
The commission agreed to set up follow‑up meetings with Janice from economic development and Dan Carter to identify Plan B and estimated costs; staff recommended running cost estimates and collecting basic survey/soil information before committing to acquisition or major engineering.
