Development News for Falmouth, Massachusetts

Falmouth Conservation Commission Approves Multiple RDAs, Continues Complex Case

The Falmouth Conservation Commission reviewed and approved multiple requests for determination of applicability (RDA) for various properties. For Alan Fuer at 375 Gate Lane, staff recommended a negative determination under both state and local bylaws, indicating the proposed work (installing native plantings and a fence) would not alter protected areas. Similarly, for Target Keskin at 67 Lakeshore Drive East, staff recommended a negative determination for installing a kayak rack and mitigation plantings. For Arthur Pasc at 43 Lake View Avenue, staff recommended a negative determination for repairing a drainage pipe. These decisions mean the proposed work does not require a full notice of intent application. A continued RDA for John J. Toyus Revocable Trust at 25 Gate Lane, involving a pool cabana, front walkway, vegetation removal, pool patio, driveway reconfiguration, and retaining walls, was continued to June 24th due to the extensive nature of the work and pending clarification with the building department.

Falmouth Conservation Commission Continues Review of 20 Beach Street Development Due to Missing Application Number

The Falmouth Conservation Commission heard a Notice of Intent (NOI) for Real Revocable Trust at 20 Beach Street, involving the construction of two additions, a garage, a shed, removal of a patio and rinse station, and installation of mitigation plantings. The applicant, represented by Tom Bunker of VSSS Design, presented detailed plans addressing existing conditions, resource area boundaries (salt marsh, bordering vegetated wetland, flood zone, coastal bank), and proposed changes. Key aspects include demolishing a portion of the existing house and patio to build an addition, constructing a new garage, relocating the driveway, and moving a shed to a location outside the wetland jurisdiction. The project also involves removing an oak tree, planting a replacement native tree, and installing a privacy fence. Mitigation plantings are proposed to offset impacts. The hearing was continued because a D-number (file number) was missing from the application, preventing a final decision that evening. Issues raised included the potential impact on the root system of an existing oak tree near the proposed garage and the need to address missing mitigation for a previous project and restoration near the driveway. The commission also noted recent clearing in the road layout area that was not caused by plows.

Falmouth Conservation Commission Continues RDA for Extensive 25 Gate Lane Project

The Falmouth Conservation Commission is reviewing a continued request for determination of applicability (RDA) from John J. Toyus Revocable Trust at 25 Gate Lane. The project involves constructing a pool cabana, an after-the-fact permit for a front walkway, vegetation removal, installing a pool patio, reconfiguring a driveway, and constructing retaining walls. The applicant requested a continuance until June 24th. Commissioners noted the extensive scope of work for an RDA and that the project is likely in a flood zone, requiring coordination with the building department. The commission granted the motion to continue the hearing.

Falmouth Conservation Commission Amends Order of Conditions for 24 Westwood Road Invasive Species Removal Project

The Falmouth Conservation Commission considered a request to amend an order of conditions for Paul Lieberman and Rachel Nagger P. Lieberman (Lieberman 2015 Revocable Trust) at 24 Westwood Road. The amendment concerns the restoration of an area where invasive species removal was deemed overly aggressive, exceeding the permitted 10%. The commission worked with the landscape team, with the primary remaining concerns being the relocation of some crowded oak trees and the potential addition of cedars. The motion to issue an amended order of conditions was approved.