Conservation Commission approves 518 South Avenue 40B in 7-0 wetlands vote

WESTON — April 9, 2024 — Weston Conservation Commission approves the contested 518 South Avenue 40B project under the state Wetlands Protection Act in a 7-0 vote. Chair Joe Berman opened with a lengthy statement saying the commission's review was confined to state performance standards because the applicant did not seek relief under Weston's local wetlands or stormwater bylaws, and rejected calls for his recusal tied to his listed home, citing MGL Chapter 268A. The order of conditions allows alteration of roughly 209 square feet of bordering vegetated wetland and adds a condition requiring buffer-zone lighting to meet wildlife-friendly standards. Member Rob Mosher acknowledged the applicant "satisfied the requirements of the state" despite concerns about phosphorus loading into Stony Brook and Nonesuch Pond. The applicant's appeal of the ZBA denial remains pending at the state Housing Appeals Committee, and a final DEP groundwater discharge permit for the on-site wastewater treatment plant is still outstanding.