HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - PB - 01/01/2010 - Planning Board Meeting Minutes 2010 (4) Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 1of 12
December 15,2010
COHASSET PLANNING BOARD MINUTES
DATE: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2010
TIME: 7:00 PM
PLACE: COHASSET TOWN HALL— AUDITORIUM
41 HIGHLAND AVENUE, COHASSET,MA 02025
Board Members Present: Alfred S. Moore,Jr., Chairman
Stuart W. Ivimey,Vice Chair
Jean Healey Dippold, Clerk
Clark H. Brewer
Charles A. Samuelson
William Hannon,Associate Member
Board Members Absent:
Recording Secretary Present: Jo-Ann M. Pilczak, Administrator
Meeting called to order at: 7:00 P.M.
7:00 P.M. PUBLIC COMMENT (10 MINUTES MAXIMUM)—no comments
7:10 P.M. SCITUATE HILL UPDATE—ROB SCHWANDT—In attendance to represent this agenda item:
Rob Schwandt, John Cavanaro—Cavanaro Consulting, Inc. Finally received permits from Mass. Highway a few
days ago. Will submit approved version of plans to Modzelewski and Board for review. Moving material around
on top lot to see what the top lot will look like with cuts and fills. Next step is visiting traffic light issue again with
the State. Temporary access permit lapsed and when they returned to have it reinstated following the directions as
to what the State wanted to see, it was exclusive of the traffic light issue. Now that they know where the access
will be located,they can begin to address traffic light. Erosion controls on bottom of the site are continually
maintained. Board would like Schwandt to return again in May,2011 for another 6 month review and update.
7:20 P.M. HIGHLAND ESTATES UPDATE - Planning Board Administrator explained that Mr.Nader asked
to be removed from agenda-informed Board that due to other previously scheduled events,he would be unable to
attend a Planning Board meeting until March, 2011. Board reviewed outstanding items that have been completed:
sign at subdivision entrance has been removed; crosswalk across Beechwood St.has been painted; letter from
Capt. Trask re: placement of fire hydrants has been received; engineering deposits have been brought up to
required minimum. Board also reviewed outstanding items that have not yet been completed—including,among
other things: subdivision as-builts still not received; bounds still not installed; extension has not been voted on by
the Board; final resolution and Board vote as to the issue of the utility pole vs underground utilities as required by
the Subdivision Rule&Regulations. Since the last update was in May. 2010 and follow-up was scheduled for
November 2010,Board is not agreeable to waiting until March, 2011 for a meeting with Nader. Board will request
that Building Inspector not issue any further building permits for this subdivision until Nader attends a meeting to
review outstanding items. Planning Board administrator to inform Nader of Board's decision.
7:30 P.M. DRAFT OF UPDATED COMMON DRIVEWAY STANDARDS—(Was on December 8,2010
agenda but not covered due to lack of time) During open time on the agenda, Planning Board Administrator
distributed draft of updated 1989 Common Driveway Standards to Board.Administrator has been working on this
update with John Modzelewski- most comments are spelling corrections,reformatting etc. Modzelewski's review
resulted in only four technical comments. Draft is also now in electronic format so final update can be put on
Planning Board webpage. Administrator asked Board to review for discussion in January, 2011. Planning Board
Administrator to check with Town Counsel as to whether review and vote to adopt must happen via public hearing.
7:45 P.M. INFORMAL DISCUSSION—PAT'S BARBERSHOP—applicant removed item from agenda
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 2of 12
December 15,2010
7:45 P.M. ZBA RECOMMENDATION, 82 WHITEHEAD ROAD In attendance to represent application:
Neil Murphy. Lot was approved in 1986 as an 8 1 L and is a legal lot. . Approved by Land Court. House on lot 25
was built in 1930 and the house on lot 25A was built in 1940. Chapter 4l, 81L is under subdivision regulations.
If there is no frontage listed in the bylaw, there must be a minimum frontage of 20 ft. or, if there are a number of
buildings on the lot,the lot can be divided so that each building has a lot around it. There are two existing
buildings that are legal. There are many easements and rights of way. Driveway has easements over it and goes to
Whitehead Road,crosses another piece of easement and then to Whitehead Road again. Owner wants to demolish
the structure and rebuild a new home. No changes to setbacks or lot width. Same footprint area. Lot is>62,000
ft. Is in the flood plain in an AO Zone—minimum of 2 ft. above existing ground—documentation shows this
without question. Proposed structure will be 85 ft. X 45 ft. ZBA has requested a full set of architectural
documents. Will be modifying application to include 8.7.2. Woody Chittick explained that when the lot was
subdivided, it created a non-conformity in that it does not have the required lot width and therefore, lot will either
have to be reconfigured or they will have to seek relief under 8.7.1 and 8.7.2. Murphy noted that when 81L allows
for a lot to be divided to give each existing house a lot around it, it does not provide any criteria for what is non-
conforming at all—no criteria for frontage, area or setbacks. The new placement of the house will have no impact
on the ocean with respect to sewage, drainage. Sullivan owns two of the adjacent properties—the nearest land
owned by someone else in quite a distance away. The application currently before the Planning Board is to seek
approval of a special permit pursuant to §9.7. 8 (flood plain)and does not include the change to include 8.7.2.
MOTION: By Member Samuelson to recommend ZBA approve this special permit.
SECOND: Member Ivimey
VOTE: 4—1 MOTION CARRIES (Member Brewer opposed)
8:00 P.M. RICK SWANBORG—INFORMAL DISCUSSION—SCITUATE TENNIS CLUB, ZONING
ISSUE FOR INDOOR SWIMMING POOL—Chris Horne, Gary James, Woody Chittick in attendance to
participate in discussion. Zoning Bylaw Amendment to 4.2—"Permitted Uses"was not adopted at November,
STM—Chittick thought that perhaps article was too broad a brush that effected about 2/3 of the Town. Question
now is what can be done? Swanborg not able to attend,but did have a list of ideas of what might be able to be
done. Horn thinks one of the things that might work best is under Section 3.3.4 Boundaries and Districts—Scituate
property is business zoned and adjacent Cohasset property is zoned residential -Horne would be asking if they
could extend 200' into the adjacent residential. Brewer thought that the fact that properties cross difference
municipal and county boundaries is an issue in that Scituate use and zoning cannot be extended into Cohasset
whereas Cohasset use could be extended further into Cohasset. Chittick agreed and added that districts were setup
in 1969 and the land would have had to be in common ownership in 1969. Brewer suggest expanding an existing
HB district several hundred feet in the NW direction—he did not think this would be spot zoning. Moore explained
that if this was the option Horne wanted to take,the Planning Board could work with him—he should hire counsel
to draft a zoning change to expand the HB district(Moore cautioned that the Attorney General might consider this
spot zoning)and Planning Board could sponsor,advertise,hold public hearing etc. Mike Milanoski, 171 So. Main
St. (Planner by trade) noted that to expand an abutting zone, other towns have Form A'd the lots putting lot line
as far back as land is needed—this does not qualify as spot zoning as it is a continued use. Horne asked about
membership&non-profit sports organizations allowed by Special Permit in RB District—he said this is a
membership club but could be changed to a non-profit. Board suggested this be addressed by his attorney. Ideas
were discussed further but final advice to Horne-he should have his attorney write the zoning article—if Planning
Board supports it, they will get it on the warrant as long as it is not spot zoning. Board suggested he move quickly
as warrant closes on February 14th and that he should come before the Board again at Jan. 12th meeting but no later
than the Jan. 26th meeting. Brewer suggested that the Planning Board take a general look at the zoning map and
change/update accordingly. Chittick thought this was a big task but Home's lot could be used as a springboard.
8:25 P.M. ATTOR. CHARLES HUMPHREYS,INFORMAL DISCUSSION—HOWARD GLEASON RD.
FORM A (No documents submitted for this discussion) Adelaide Pratt Estate off Howard Gleason Rd. Family
wants to expand and retain a lot,by taking land from the roughly 10 acre parcel, plus Lot A(15,000 sq.ft)plus
7,000 sq. ft. for a total of 22,200 sq.ft. for existing house. Proposing Form A for remaining 8.5 acres. Cavanaro
explained the full perimeter of the lot as well as configuration of each proposed lot. Common drive access road
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 3of 12
December 15,2010
with hammerhead to be used for access to 3 parcels. All lots will be well above 60,000 sq.ft.. Will file formal
application within few weeks. Board does not see any issues but reminds them about common driveway standards.
8:50 P.M. ADMINISTRATION
• VOTE TO APPROVE DECEMBER 8, 2010 MEETING MINUTES—no vote—minutes not complete
• CONFIRM JANUARY 12 & 26 AND FEBRUARY 9&23 MEETING DATES-confirmed
9:05 P.M. SPECIAL PERMIT & SITE PLAN REVIEW CONT'D.PUBLIC HEARING
CONSERVATION WIND LP(TRUSTEES OF RESERVATIONS) WIND ENERGY CONVERSION,
FACILITY FILING- TURKEY HILL In attendance for Planning Board: John Modzelewski, CDI; James
Barnes,Acentech; Town Counsel Richard Hucksam;
In attendance to represent applicant:
Attorney Richard Henderson
Steven Sloane—Greater Boston Regional Director and Deputy Director of Field Operations for TTOR
Jim Younger—Director of Structural Resources&Technical Operations for TTOR
Kathy Abbott,TTOR
Dennis Loria— Mechanical Engineer-Loria Emerging Energy Consultants LLC
Stephen Andrus, P.E. —GZA,Providence Office
Christopher Menge - HMMH Noise Consultant
DOCUMENTS REVIEWED/REFERENCED AT THIS MEETING. ON FILE IN PLANNING BOARD OFFICE
(documents listed in the 11/16/10, 12/08/10 meeting minutes may also have been used again at this meeting)
Applicant Reports:
• 12/14/10: FAA Advisory Circular AC 70/7460-1K
• 12/15/10: ASA response to comments raised at 12/08/10 meeting
• 12/15/10: TTOR Power Point Presentation used at 12/15/10 meeting
• 12/15/10: Attorney John O. Mirick re: Opinion as to TTOR legal right to use site
• 12/15/10: Drawing PL dated: 11/16/10, revised 12/06/10
Civil Designs Engineering Inc. (CDI) Submissions/Correspondence:
• 12/14/10: CDI Email"ties shadow study to the Vestas V-90 currently proposed"
• 12/8/10: Final Report—Shadow Study Third-Party Review prepared by Emergent Energy Group
Submissions from Public:
• 12/14/10: Letter of protest from Patrick Leahy,Hingham
• 12/14/10: Letter of endorsement from Robert C. Broker, Treasurer,REACH
• 12/14/10: Statement of protest from Edward&Carol Muldoon,Hingham
• 12/15/10: Letter of concern from Dr. Stephen Shoemaker,Hingham
• 12/15/10: Email of opposition from John Leffel, Cohasset
• 12/15/10: Email of opposition to this and all potential future wind turbines in Cohasset from Jeffrey Kripke,
Cohasset
• 12/15/10: Letter from Bruce Rabuffo, Chairman,Hingham BOS with letter to Steve Sloane from Roger
Fernandes, Hingham Projects Engineer attached
• 12/15/10: Email of opposition from Mark Babka, Cohasset
• 12/15/10: Opposition to Special Permit 2010-02 Application by Conservation Wind, LP and the TTOR
prepared by Attorney Jeffery A.Tocchio
• 12/15/10: Submitted by Scott Bushley, Cohasset: "Wind Siting Rules, Clearinghouse Rule 10-057"
• 12/15/10: Submitted by Scott Bushley, Cohasset: "Residential Property Value Guarantee Agreement"
• 12/15/10: Submitted by Scott Bushley, Cohasset: "Affidavit of Dr. Michael M. Nissenbaum, M.D." In the
Court of Queen's Bench Judicial Centre of Saskatoon
***********************************
Kathy Abbott,TTOR read letter—TTOR is taking long view look at the next 100 years. Goal is to show they can
increase the use of renewable energy and they believe they are living up to their charter.
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 4of 12
December 15,2010
Dan Loria: provided update of issues raised at last meeting:
• Henderson submitted Mirick opinion letter to Town Counsel for his review
• Met with Hingham BOS on Dec. 14th
• New photosims: does not think new photosims are same caliber as previous ones partially because camera did
not have as wide a view angle as previously used camera. Reviewed photosims including from rear of Golden
Living Center
• Additional noise analysis: Christopher Menge met with Jim Barnes. Incorporated new information about noise
emission from turbine. Added 3 dBA to noise source as design margin safety factor as recommended by
Barnes. Decreased ground factor from 0.7 to 0.5 as suggested by Barnes. When compared to MA DEP criteria,
in this worst case analysis,there is an 8 dBA increase at Golden Living which is still 2 dBA less than MA DEP
limit. Menge reiterated-this is worst case condition and he actually expects it to be more in the order of a 5
dBA increase. As wind increases, ambient noise and turbine noise increase,but background sound increases
faster. In residential communities surrounding turbine, increases are only up to 1-2 dBA so turbine noise in all
cases is expected to be less than background ambient. Background ambient noises were obtained in August
during lowest sound period—around 5 AM. Menge prefers to obtain noise levels during time of year when
people would have windows open—summer time is generally considered to be most noise sensitive time of
year. Relative increase(dBA)is difference between the update sound level increase(dBA) and original sound
level increase(dBA). In all cases,whether wind speed is 7 m/s at hub height or or 11 m/s at hub height,
original sound level increase and updated sound level increase is<10 dBA at all locations measured. Recent
general specification data from Vestas gave a range of sound power levels for different modes of operation—
these levels were higher than the measures before and represent a specification that is a conservative
specification. Applicant chose the mode O operation for the modeling,which is the loudest operation. So,
applicant used the updated volume noise emissions and, as Barnes recommended, added 3 dBA to noise source
as design margin. Modzelewski noted that the wind shear issue and the relationship between wind at 2 meters
above ground and the wind to be expected at the hub has been resolved —it was an unfortunate application of
wording in one of the tables. Barnes had opportunity to review original report and addendum and to speak with
Menge. Barnes was able to exercise the model and be comfortable with the results. Barnes: agrees that the
model used is an accurate representation of the different points being used; is comfortable with vendor values
that have been proposed, the sound power levels that the vendor provided(he has actually measured a similar
sized turbine),the vendor data and the propagation method that was used utilizing more reflective ground than
was originally used. The 3 dBA margin is quite useful—not as a fudge factor—it accounts for things that vary
such as time of year, operation levels etc. Barnes feels the standard of care used in the analysis is appropriate
and the results are reasonable. Barnes noted that there are things that can be done through reduced operation
such as changing pitch which can reduce noise,but reduces output also. However,in this case,the Vestas
information that was chosen for the analysis was the noisiest mode of operation which does provided an
additional margin of dBA. Modzelewski suggested that it might not be a bad idea to confirm the background
noises while deliberating— also, since it might be a while before this goes into the conceptual phase, could
collect date during other times of year to confirm it and make everyone happy.
James Gruver, 16 Great Rock Rd.,Hingham: If the study was done now,while windows are shut, ground is
frozen,no leaves on trees—would it still pass the test at the property line? Barnes noted that a factor that has
not come into discussion yet is the assumption that sound propagates from the turbine in all directions equally.
If winter winds are primarily from the N/NW, receptors on the Hingham side will be upwind and noise will be
somewhat reduced in that direction—then yes, in those cases, it would pass the test. In the case of wind from
another direction, during the winter,with g factor down to .3, it would take some monitoring to see what the
spread would be. Gruver requested that the Board consider this to make sure everyone knows worst case on a
windy winter day. An unidentified individual asked if it is possible,under the conditions mentioned by Gruver,
that it would not pass the test? Barnes replied that, given the numbers they have, a substantial amount of
increase could be allowed above what they have and still pass. Chances are quite low that it would not pass-
not to say people will not hear it or think they hear it—anytime there is a new noise source in the community,
people are going to hear it- there is no guarantee that people will not hear it on occasion, but it should
certainly meet the MA DEP 99%of the time.
Des MacIntyre, 10 Great Rock Rd.,Hingham: lives in the Weir River Valley—does not see any testing in that
area of the river—asked if sound would be different in this more confined area—will noise become confined
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 5of 12
December 15,2010
and echo? - suggested that it would be interesting to see real analysis rather than modeling. Menge replied that
acoustic model incorporates analysis to those distances and model is a 3-D terrain model that incorporates all
the terrain and, also noted that the only way to test is via modeling.
Victoria Starr, 108 Turkey Hill Lane: the prevailing wind 90%of the time is westerly.
Julie Dale,40 Turkey Hill Lane: lives in a bowl like area—sound is different where she lives—she hears fire
trucks at central fire station, football games at high school,trains going by-sounds come and go- she enjoys
sound of football games but worries that she is going to hear turbine all day long-it is not her imagination—
there are days she hears the Hull turbine.
Khela Thorne,44 Bonnie Brier Circle,Hingham: asked if neighbors to Hu112 have been interviewed and if
other research has been done. She says it is not loudness of turbine, it is infrasound which is a very different
sound that is like a jet going by that doesn't ever pass—has there been testing for that? Menge replied that
older studies done in 1990's on older types of turbines did show significant amount of low frequency sound and
concern. However, latest research indicates that low frequency sounds from modern upwind turbines generate
low frequency sound that is sometimes audible(most of the time not audible) but does not have any deleterious
effects on human health. Thorne replied that she lives with it first hand and she knows it is there. Henderson
thought it would be helpful to know the proximity of her home to Hu112 because none of the homes relative to
TTOR tower may be as close as her home to Hu112 —without knowing the distance,her point is meaningless.
Attorney Tocchio: Studies that disassociate medical problems and sound do however recognize the correlation
with noise—is that correct? Those more modern studies that(Menge)was talking about were basically funded
by the United States Wind Power Assoc. - do recognize the annoyance factor from the effects—is that correct?
Menge replied that one study points out that there can be an annoyance effect. Tocchio stated that there is a
high correlation in that the more a person is negatively predisposed to wind turbine presence—isn't that
correct? Member Moore pointed out that this is not a cross examination of the applicant. Tocchio explained he
is trying to clarify the answer to the question the woman was asking and he did say that is correct?
Scott Bushley,25 Surrey Drive, Cohasset: submitted "Affidavit of Dr. Michael M.Nissenbaum,M.D." In the
Court of Queen's Bench Judicial Centre of Saskatoon" - about inaudible noise.
Jim Tartol, 8 Pheasant Run,Hingham: asked if applicant has considered contacting and finding out how may
people in the area have atrial fibrillation like he does and how this sound can be affect them. Answer—no.
Jeanne Sylvester, 810 Main St. Hingham: does not understand if there has been analysis about rock and echo
involved in rock or is it just distance - if just distance,topography should be taken into consideration in a lot of
these areas. Menge replied-both distance and topography were taken into consideration. Sound propagation
models used incorporate a conservatively hard ground factor, however, it should be pointed out that if they
increase the ground factor to asphalt all the way from turbine to the residences, sound level would not increase.
As clarification for the public, Moore added that this Board has to consider a lot relative to this type of
application-the state guideline is not increasing the sound by more than 10 dBA-no one is saying there will
be no impact and no sound—there will be sound-but the Board has to determine if it meets state regulations.
Andrew Strehle, 231 Leavitt St.,Hiingham: There is a lot of bird sound where he lives. Asked what the 34
dBA would be reduced to if there was no bird sound in winter. Menge replied—he thinks not much less than
30-32 dBA,but reiterated that summer is the time when people will be most likely to hear anything—when
background sounds are low in the middle of the night,windows are open etc.
Charles Dale,40 Turkey Hill Lane,Hingham: asked for clarification of a yellow line on map being displayed.
Answer—a property boundry
Dr. Stephen Shoemaker, 275 East St.,Hingham: asked if, after installation, actual sound measures will be
taken and, if they exceed predictions,what steps will be taken? Answer: Any approval by the Board will be
conditional that they have to do what they say they are going to do-there will be subsequent tests-if
they cannot meet what they say they say they are going to meet, they will not be allowed to run turbine
or, until there is mitigation. Shoemaker clarified that there will be actual measures taken after installation
which will be reported to Planning Board and,mitigation or shutdown will take place? Moore confirmed.
Member Samuelson added that applicant is betting $4- $5 million that they are going to build something that
will meet the bylaws—if they fail to meet bylaw or special conditions imposed on them,they will not be able
to operate it. Loria added that when people are outside in summer and windows tend to be open, turbine will be
operating the least. The wind blows stronger in the winter in N.E. so there is more operation in winter months
than in the summer months. Samuelson noted however,that they bylaw does not take that into account—it
does not speak to different seasons of year or different times of day—it says it cannot exceed the 10 dBA limit.
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 6of 12
December 15,2010
Samuelson also commented that based on the Cape Wind studies,the single biggest factor effecting sound is
keeping the blades clean so the Board has to condition regular maintenance to keep the blades clean.
• Access Road: Loria addressed access road and slope of access road. Access road will only be used for
construction and then, during operation,by maintenance or emergency vehicles. GZA feels 12% is appropriate
and best slope for this location. They provided information and research to Modzelewski. GZA met with Fire
Chief and Captain—they did not have concern with the 12% slope. Capt. Trask added that the road that they
talked with him about was a road which is typically used in woods of Maine for accessing wood lots and other
low frequency use types of activities. Cohasset fire apparatus is all two-wheel drive designed to go on paved
roads. Trask does not have a problem with 12% slope if they are going on pavement. Description he was given
for a packed gravel road is probably adequate for 4-wheel drive logging machinery,but that is not what they
have. Trask would ask the Board to condition the permit requiring a paved road down to the pad. There
is plenty of operational room at bottom of the road,but they need to get there safely. Andrus, GZA, - this will
increase stormwater flows on site and increase the area required for stormwater mitigation but, it certainly could
be done. The primary reference he used comes from U.S. Dept. of Agriculture for low volume access roads and,
he will agree that most of those roads are designed for major logging operations however,that one does state
that a 12%road between Wand 24'wide is adequate for RV's,trucks and trailers. It is a crushed stone road
not a packed gravel. He thinks it is negotiable,but will not argue with Trask. For landfill work,they
traditionally run 15%on access roads which are accessed by single axle,2-wheel drive landfill equipment, also
by semi tractor trailers -he thinks 12%is a reasonable grade for this design—he stands behind it but they can
certainly pave the road if the Board wants. Modzelewski added-the Scituate Hill Commercial Subdivision site
on Rt. 3A is a 6% and driveway up to the top of the hill is 9% and the highest the Board has gone in 25 yrs. is
about 9.5%. Modzelewski thinks 9%is reasonable. He also noted that there is an existing driveway that goes to
a communications tower which runs for about 50'before the road starts going down—if they started the slope
down immediately after the driveway,they gain another 50'with which to go down. He also has not received
an answer as to why road has to stop where shown—he asked if this could be extended allowing them to get the
9%. Overall,Modzelewski recommends 9.5% paved roadway. Trask added-even if road was brought
down to 9% slope,emergency personnel are trained to drive on a paved surface and when responding to
emergencies,they do not move at the speed that forest roads are designed for-whether slope is 9%, 10%
or 12%,he recommends paving road. Moore asked Modzelewski the slope of the bottom of Forest Ave.—
Modzelewski will find out. Attorney Henderson suggested that access to base of tower is not as relevant as
everyone thinks-fire will be handled by automatic suppression systems—information about which has been
given to Board. Des MacIntyre, 10 Great Rock Rd.,Hingham: fire trucks respond to accidents as well as fires.
Katia Orth, 12 Great Rock Road, Hingham: asked if road will be issue with conservation. Henderson replied
that they already have order of conditions to work along side of road. Road will not be in wetlands and will not
require a conservation commission ruling. There will be a second conservation commission hearing—under the
Cohasset Drainage bylaw,they have jurisdiction over stormwater so there will be a stormwater hearing.
Jeffery Tocchio: asked for confirmation that 450'of roadway would be paved. Loria answered approx. 450'.
Tocchio suggested that, absent plans depicting that,the applicant has failed to show compliance with special
permit 12.4.1.b.1 and 2. Henderson noted again- stormwater is under the jurisdiction of Stormwater
Committee not the Planning Board so 12.4 does not apply to it—drainage will be covered under a separate filing
and committee. Samuelson noted that a standard condition imposed by the Planning Board is that
applicant must obtain all other permits from other agencies which have jurisdiction,one of which is the
Conservation Commission which specifies impervious soil, etc. Tocchio replied that 450'feet competes with
many subdivision roads and issues with drainage and because all of the neighbors did not have notice,they were
not able to participate in any Conservation Commission proceedings. Again, Samuelson noted that the Planning
Board will not approve or disapprove of the Conservation Commission's evaluation of this project—the Board
will require that the applicant get that permit—so whatever conditions Conservation puts on any applicant will
be enforced. Tocchio understands but is concerned with 12.4.Lb.2. Ivimey alerted Board and applicant that
he is not sure the Stormwater Bylaw does not do away with the Planning Board's obligation under the general
laws of Mass. to opine or make comments. Steve Andrus, GZA: stormwater was evaluated for a preliminary
plan submitted for the overall site alterations that are being made and some areas of the site around the NIKE
site cleanup when that was removed—actual stormwater as presented in this plan—has been before the
Conservation Commission. Paving the road is obviously a change that will have to be brought back to
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 7of 12
December 15,2010
Conservation Commission with finalized construction plan. Modzelewski noted that he did review certain
drainage aspects but not everything the Stormwater Agent looks at.
• Benefits to Town—will be taxed and provide additional tax revenue to Town of approx. $50,0000/yr. Have had
discussions with Interim Town Manager Lombard and Director of Hingham Light and Power regarding
potential sale of power from this facility that could result in additional savings to the community. Loria noted
that TTOR have been able to respond to substantive issues raised during this review process because the team's
consultants have worked very carefully and very hard to do a comprehensive evaluation of the project in
preparation of engineering,the extensive public outreach by TTOR and in preparation of this permit application.
Applicant has worked diligently to promptly answer all questions/issues raised by the Board, its consultants.
Permit approval they seek tonight is only one step towards creating clean power. They respectfully request that
the Planning Board vote tonight—they have provided all requested information and have demonstrated that the
project will comply with Cohasset's Wind Zoning Bylaw.
Ivimey asked if TTOR will pay for equipment or training Cohasset emergency services may need? Loria- they
will provide training to police, fire, emergency services in Cohasset and Hingham and equipment within reasonable
costs. Trask- this is a pretty open ended situation—Cohasset belongs to Plymouth County High Angle Rescue
Team-county wide organization-organized to effect rescues in structures such as this,however, it takes time to
assemble and he expressed to the proponent that CFD wants to be sure they have the equipment necessary to
effectively setup any type of rescue that might be needed prior to arrival of the High Angle Team.
Des MacIntyre, 10 Great Rock Rd.,Hingham: TTOR has put forward a financial benefit to Cohasset,mentioning a
tax revenue of$50,000—his understanding is that when Hull put forward its turbines,there was understanding that
there was public benefit- not benefits solely to one small group and, as such,people were more accepting of the
blight of the negative features and aspects of the turbines—has TTOR given any thought to compensating Hingham
and/or Cohasset with free electricity to share the financial benefit? Moore noted that the Planning Board is not
"selling"a permit -the fact that the town may benefit by tax revenue from an approved property is not any
different than the tax benefit from any shopping mall or big home. Town Counsel added that normally,that kind of
mitigation is done on voluntary basis or, as an agreement,not as a requirement. Samuelson added that Hull has its
own public municipal power grid so the whole financial model is different and cannot be compared with this
situation. Loria added that Hull Power&Light is owned by Hull's ratepayers and taxpayers—they paid for and
own that turbine—a very different situation than one that is privately owned.
MacIntyre: suggested to TTOR that they give consideration to sharing the spoils of the electricity with the
neighbors adjoining this project- show good faith and invest in the success of this venture and share cheap
electricity with the surrounding neighborhoods.
Scott Bushley,25 Surrey Dr., Cohasset: asked for analysis of tax revenue that will be lost due to depreciation of
properties surrounding turbine. Henderson replied- Cohasset Tax Assessor Quill has said there will be absolutely
no effect on property values. Bushley cited what is done in another areas such as Property Value agreements that
all contractors have to sign as part of clean energy which guarantee value of all properties within a two mile radius
of any turbine for five years. If properties cannot sell on public market, contractor has to purchase them. He asked
if we have one of these agreements? Bushley submitted documents showing contracts and agreements
implemented in other towns and suggested Cohasset does not want to lose $1 million in tax revenue to gain
$50,000 so these guys can pat themselves on the shoulders.
Bill Driscoll, 4 Pheasant Run,Hingham: TTOR has described this site as a less than desireable site, an industrial
site—he would like to know the ranking criteria that was used to identify this as one of TTOR's least attractive
properties and,how the TTOR categorize World's End. Sloane suggested that Driscoll is using some words TTOR
has not used and clarified that TTOR feels this site is appropriate from an aesthetic prospective -there are beautiful
prospectives that can be had from Turkey Hill over the Harbor and that the turbine,which will be in back of this
prospective will not detract from the aesthetics. Reference to prior industrial uses is reference to the fact that the
ecological make-up of the site over time—the turbine will not detract significantly from the uses of the site.
Driscoll asked if impact on recreational uses has been studied- will people who go up on Turkey Hill to face the
beautiful views be exposed to the effects of the turbine behind them. Sloane indicated that they have not actually
studied that but they anticipate some people may not like the turbine and will not use the area for recreational
purposes,while others will enjoy it.
Khela Thorne,44 Bonnie Brier Circle,Hingham: she was not at previous meeting—asked if shadow flicker was
addressed —she lives on the good side of Hull turbine and is not effected by flicker,but looks at the houses in Hull
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES sof 12
December 15,2010
and does not know how they live in their houses. Moore explained to her that an inordinate amount of time was
spent addressing flicker at last meeting.
Matt Shanley, Sheldon Road,Hingham: asked-has looked at how many tons of pollutants will be reduced by this
turbine as compared to a power plant. Younger replied-this turbine will produce 5 million kilowatts/year of
electricity which offsets 4,000 metric tons of carbon/yr.
Mr. Schiavo,24 Turkey Hill Lane: suggested cart is being put before horse. Asked if TTOR knows more about
the situation than he does—asked when TTOR acquired the property. Moore replied that this type of questioning is
not relevant—TTOR owns the land and has the right to try to do certain things with it. Henderson replied that
TTOR acquired majority of the land in 1933. Schiavo replied that he was here in 1933 and does not remember
TTOR—he remembers Mrs. Starr,her caretaker and asked them to show him proof.
Victoria Starr: spoke to clarify the matter—her grandmother gave a good part of the woodlands to the south of
Turkey Hill Lane land to TTOR after the war—probably 1947. Her mother gave management of Weir Rive r Farm
to TTOR in 1993 and deeded it to TTOR in 1997.
Joseph James, 141 CJC Hwy.: is curious as to what TTOR receives for leasing this land—are they giving the land
away, selling it, donating it? What does TTOR receive for doing this? Henderson noted that TTOR owns the land
—will generate income by selling electricity to the grid. Again,Moore explained that Cohasset unanimously
passed a Wind Turbine Zoning bylaw at Town Meeting- since then,Board has learned a great deal and last year,
had an application before them for two turbines(near where this proposed turbine is proposed)which was denied
because it failed a significant zoning test which had been overlooked for some time during the hearing process-
TTOR's project is not a Cohasset project or a Hingham project—it is a permitted use under the Cohasset bylaw
and in this case,the applicant is TTOR but there is nothing that says it has to be TTOR—it could be anyone. What
they choose to do with the power and how much money they make is not an issue at all. This is a judicial board
that has to look at the zoning bylaw,weigh all evidence and make a hard decision—it is not a town project where
town is out to make money—all development yields some tax revenue to the town.
Charles Dale,40 Turkey Hill Lane, Hingham: what TTOR proposes to do with the land that this turbine will sit on
is sell it. They are going to sell it to the applicant—Conservation Wind—in limited partnership which will
simultaneously take in an equity investor and leverage the property with bank debt—Dale read p. 5 of the feasibility
study. Moore asked why this would influence the Board's decision. Dale replied-they have not explained site
control—they have not even told the Board who Conservation Wind LP is because it does not exist. Dale contends
this is in the very first portion of the bylaw. Ivimey senses there is a lot of discomfort in the room with TTOR and,
like or hate TTOR,they own the land and they can do anything with it that is permissible under the bylaws - the
fact that the public thinks they should be managing their property in another way, does not impact the Board's
decision—the Board's decision is based upon the bylaw. Dale replied that this is essentially saying the Board can
permit a project without knowing whether than can even turn it on. Moore answered that this is correct. Ivimey
replied that(using an animal rendering plant as an example)the Board is looking at a commercial use that is
permitted in Cohasset and whether you like that commercial business,whether you think Cohasset shouldn't have
the bylaw or whether you like the applicant or not is not relevant. Moore added-is not the Board's job to analyze
applicant's business plan and make a judgment that they may or may not succeed—that is up to the applicant
(Moore cited the TOD building on Rt. 3A as not being fully leased to tenants—this was not the applicant's goal,but
it was also not the Board's responsibility to analyze).
Joseph James, 141 CJC Hwy.,Hingham: clarified his point- it seems like Cohasset and TTOR benefits,while the
people who live near it and the Hingham people get an eyesore , something they don't want,possible health risks.
Member Hannon suggested that James' issues are with TTOR and not with the Town of Cohasset—the Planning
Board does not have the flexibility that James seems to think they do— regardless of personal opinion of Board
members,there is a bylaw that was voted on by the Town of Cohasset which says this is a permitted use of the land
if it conforms with certain requirements and, if it conforms,it must be approved. Samuelson suggested that there is
probably some land in Cohasset that they could move to if they are that concerned.
Mark O'Neill, 38 Turkey Hill Rd.,Hingham: wondered if the Board would feel the same way if all the land around
the turbine was Cohasset land. Moore answered that Board would be approaching it in exactly the same way.
O'Neill suggested that the Board buy his house. Member Healey Dippold added that—if for example the Board
denied this application simply because Hingham believes Hingham is burdened while Cohasset benefits and,
without regard for the bylaw requirement—TTOR will appeal and likely win—and Hingham will get the turbine
without any reasonable conditions—there is a reason why there is a process, in part, for the public's protection as
well as balancing the rights of TTOR—if Hingham wants an arbitrary decision,that comes at the risk that the court
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 9of 12
December 15,2010
ultimately finds in favor of TTOR and the public gets a turbine without any safety or other conditions that would
have protected abutters.
Unidentified woman: Chairman stated that Cohasset stated unanimously that they would love to have this in their
town but she saw that the entire sound study was about Hingham—she did not see any areas of Cohasset that would
be concerned, so if they had a unanimous desire to have this,why is it on the extremities effecting Hingham and not
Cohasset? Moore replied that when Cohasset passed the bylaw allowing turbines,they did not specify where one
could be built—the last filing was completely in Cohasset but was denied because there was a zoning violation that
could not be surmounted - it was not denied because Cohasset residents thought it was ugly—although a lot of
residents did say that. In fact,there was a subsequent town meeting at which opponents could not gather the
needed majority to overturn things. The people spoke clearly that, in this town,they wanted to be part of the
solution to the fossil fuels problem. Again Moore reiterated that if this project were located in the most central part
of Cohasset,the Board would be approaching it in exactly the same way.
Dr. Stephen Shoemaker, 275 East St.,Hingham: looking at the worst case scenario for flicker, Shoemaker
wonders if there are guarantees similar to sound,that assure that flicker will be confined to the area as represented
—he has a family member who suffers from migraines - if undulating light from flicker reaches his home which is
just beyond the reach of flicker represented in the worst case scenario diagram, they would have to live with
blackout shades during the time flicker might reach his home and living with blackout shades does not seem like a
nice way to live. Ivimey replied that this was discussed extensively during the last application filed and the Board
discussed requiring some sort of monitoring that could be tied to a computer that could calculate if flicker at a
particular site exceeded"X", at which point the turbine would probably have to be shutdown until the sun moved
or a cloud cover became apparent. Shoemaker wanted clarification that if exceeded the 30 hrs. ... Ivimey
explained that 30 hrs. is a universal standard that really has no basis. Shoemaker stated that there is supposed to
be no flicker at his home—will there be a guarantee about this? Ivimey noted that the Board can guarantee him
nothing,but the Board can guarantee that should the Board approve this,Ivimey will make sure that
Shoemaker's home is factored into monitoring software and analysis—Shoemaker should provide his
address to the Planning Board office. Moore added -Board holds applicants accountable for what was proposed
- if it is not measuring up in the future, Board will take action. Ivimey also pointed out that if flicker numbers are
wrong, turbine will not be allowed to operate and, if it is not operating, it is not generating electricity—it is to the
applicant's financial advantage to have real and accurate data. Modzelewski noted that worst case scenario diagram
stops at about 3000 meters because it is generally agreed in the industry that between 500— 1,000 meters, flicker
dissipates to the point that it is not seen at 1,000 meters, but it is not beyond the realm of possibility that someone,
somewhere won't see it.
Scott Bushley,25 Surrey Dr., Cohasset: not convinced health issues have been properly addressed. There is a bill
before House of Lords moving setback distances to 1500 meters because of sound. Largest state owned power
company in Denmark is has suspended all future onshore wind programs. Bushley contends there is growing proof
that something is going on here—wind turbine syndrome. Cited CZB 12.4 referencing public health, safety,
welfare, comfort or convenience of the community. Bushley wants assurances about tax revenue and property
value guarantee agreement and monies set aside for litigation expenses and,thinks"community"includes Hingham
as we mutually shop in each other's shops, eat in each other's restaurants,use each other's beaches etc. and that
emergency services support each other and the Board should not want Hingham fire trucks to stop at the town
border. Member Healey Dippold asked if it was Bushley's contention that turbines should not exist in Cohasset at
all. Bushley answered they should exist under the right circumstances—the issue is we do not know what the proper
setback should be (cited revisions that are being made in other areas)—we do not need to be guinea pigs in this—
there is no rush to approve this—information is not conclusive—have a moral responsibility to each other. Moore
replied that Bushley's comments might have been better taken at town meeting when the turbine bylaw was
enacted -the fact of the matter is we have the bylaw-we are not here tonight to re-examine or dismiss the bylaw—
it is the law. The Board is trying to collect as much data as it can to evaluate this proposal against the bylaw.
Member Brewer: could not find anything that shows the Vestas model the applicant proposes to use. If there is an
option for one model or another,he would like to see manufacturer's cut-sheets that showssomething about the
tower construction,base etc. Dan Loria replied that they will supply- a V-90 Vestas was used in the model. They
want to have the liberty to look at competing turbines that are comparable. Brewer noted that if there are 1,2 or 3
models that they are considering that are comparable but made by different manufacturers,he would like to see the
manufacturer's information as part of the approval. Moore pointed out that they have modeled on the V-90 and if,
after approval,they decide to use another turbine,they will have to return for a re-evaluation. Brewer suggested
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 10of 12
December 15,2010
the Board look at the options now. Ivimey suggested the applicant chose to model everything on the V-90 so
permit should be issued on the V-90 and they will have to return.
Darren Donovan, 3 Pheasant Run, Hingham: asked Board to consider another sound study—one study with
revised numbering really pushes the numbers up significantly—even consider an independent study by group not
paid by applicant. Health should not be risked without more study. Don't just go by the law-do what is right—do
what is courageous—do another study—wind turbines do not belong in residential areas. Hannon pointed out that
Board has done that—they had questions about acoustics and flicker and had engineering consultants for the Town
-who are independent of the applicant -review and opine. Donovan replied this was not another study—this is
one expert concurring or not with merits and reasonableness of application—that is peer review-another study
should be at a different time of year using actual data from operating turbines (not modeling). Healey Dippold
asked how difficult it would be for applicant and Board's consultants to review flicker and noise at certain
addresses—is it as simple as just imputing addresses into a computer program? Barnes thought it could be done but
Modzelewski thought addresses would have to be within 1000 meters.
Jeffery Tocchio: distributed a list of concerns correlated to the bylaw(submitted- see full document in Planning
Board file)and reviewed the concerns as detailed in his document. Tocchio mentioned that he made a public docs
request on Dec. 9tn which is still outstanding and town has 10 days to respond but he would like those docs so he
can meet with his own acoustics experts. Tocchio also requested a four week delay in the hearings due to holidays
and, until they receive requested docs to allow them time to meet with their own experts. Moore reiterated that it is
Planning Board that will be making the decision—not Mr. Tocchio or the audience—Board will not have a sound
meter to see who can applaud the loudest. This is going to be a very difficult decision for Board to make but when
Board is satisfied that they have enough information,they will close public hearing, deliberate and make a decision
—it is not going to matter if Mr. Tocchio understands, what matters that Board understands. Tocchio noted that
they would also like the documents so they can ask intelligent questions. Henderson noted that applicant would be
opposed to a four week delay. Planning Board Administrator noted, for the record,that as of this date, a public
documents request has not been received by the Planning Board Office. Among other points in his document,
Tocchio addressed: his opinion that a"For Profit"is not allowed as TTOR is operating as a public trustee and
requested a copy of the title abstract to ascertain if title is as stated and, stated opinion that it is incumbent on
Planning Board to ask more questions; Tocchio contends there is a discrepancy in turbine height measurements and
height to nacelle and that applicant has not demonstrated under 19.3.3.1 that the 60'additional height (above 350')
is needed; that there are residences within the 410' of the tower site; that the lines on the southerly and northerly
are not fixed; asked that the applicant be required to make a presentation on compliance with other Fish and
Wildlife Service criteria; Hingham Highway Dept. should be consulted and comments should be solicited from
Town of Hingham about adequacy of Turkey Hill Lane and Turkey Hill Road for this project which also goes
through an Historic District and about emergency response from Hingham; applicant has not shown (19.4.1.1)
that siting and proposed mitigation minimizes visual impact on character of neighborhoods and communities; as
recently as a few weeks ago, TTOR sent affirmation that Weir River Farm land would be protected forever. Town
Counsel offered opinion that this is not land owned by the Commonwealth or by a city or town and to the extent
that there has been an assertion made that land owned by TTOR is equivalent to land owned by the Commonwealth
or a city or town is incorrect and he has not seen any legal authority supporting Tocchio's use theory. Town
Counsel also looked at the issue of site control and the assertion that the applicant has failed to establish site control
as required pursuant to 19. 3.2 on the basis of alleged lack of authority by TTOR to do this kind of project on the
basis of its articles of organization and believes that this is a fundamental misinterpretation of 19.3.2 which is
about the ownership interests of the applicant and the owner of the property and whether they have sufficient
ownership interest in order to construct and operate the project—it is not about interpreting their articles of
organization as to proper purposes of the organization—Town Counsel disagrees fundamentally with the concept
that the alleged lack of authority in the articles of organization can constitute a lack of site control under 19.3.2—
this is a clearly erroneous concept. Attorney Henderson noted that TTOR's General Counsel concurs almost
exactly with Town Counsel and that,with respect to lot lines, the 81X plan was recorded to the Registry of Deeds
on I l/16/10 and there is no question that this is one large parcel.
Dr. Stephen Shoemaker, 275 East St.,Hingham: asked if the Planning Board is willing to ask if TTOR are willing
to volunteer to honor the new height guidelines the Planning Board is considering to adopt in the future? Moore
replied- Planning Board has no new guidelines—AEC is working on changes which may include height—but
there currently are no changes. Changes would have to go through Planning Board vote,public hearing,Town
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 11 of 12
December 15,2010
Meeting vote and Attorney General approval if passed at Town Meeting and, applicant has filed their application
under the existing bylaw, so even if there were changes in the future, applicant has the right to build under the
existing bylaw. Shoemaker asked if TTOR will make a commitment that there will not be any additional turbines
on this property in the future. Sloane replied that there are no plans at this time but cannot make a commitment for
100 years from now. Shoemaker noted that reference to"large scale" here and"farm scale" elsewhere,makes the
point that overlooking Weir River Farm,the applicant has not produced any alternative analysis with respect to
other less offensive options. Samuelson noted smaller turbines are more detrimental in terms of noise and flicker.
Julie Dale,40 Turkey Hill Lane,Hingham: TTOR mailing in Nov. described the site as being not pristine and
having a history of industrial use—that is not where this turbine is going—it is going in Whitney Hill Woods—they
are going to clear and excavate these woods to put in a turbine with a 450'paved road —she is in these woods every
single day—water pours down that hill—it is icy right now—last spring,the rail trail completely washed out—
TTOR deceived them into thinking this turbine was going on top of Turkey Hill—this is not an industrial site—this
site is pristine—letter she received from TTOR on 11/24, had nothing about their decision to change their focus to
wind energy, all they talked about was preserving land forever—they are going to take this beautiful land away
from the public and that is not right—she asks the Board, as human beings to consider the impact this will have on
those who live there and love this place.
Moore explained what closing a public hearing means—no more questions or submissions.
James Gruver, 16 Great Rock Rd.,Hingham: Asked—they did not have time to review docs—what are they to do?
Board has responsibility to give them time so they can review and ask questions. Moore reiterated that Board has
been transparent but Board has to make the decision,not the public -while Board wants everyone to observe,ask
and submit—Board has to decide when they have received enough information to begin to deliberate and then to
move forward to deliberation.
Attorney Henderson noted that this entity will not be tax exempt—it is a for profit entity that will be subject to
income taxes and real estate taxes and there is no basis for thinking it will not be taxed-it will be subject to taxes.
Samuelson suggested that this is a sticky issue because the Board cannot be put in the situation of appearing that the
permit was"for sale", yet zoning bylaw clearly states that Board is empowered to consider economic benefit or
detriment to the community—this is a conundrum.
Member Healey Dippold noted that the reality is-the permit is not for sale. She requested that Barnes provide an
analysis of specific addresses(40 Turkey Hill Lane., 275,236 East St., 3 Pheasant Run,231 Leavitt and,
Tocchio's clients)with respect to noise and flicker to provide a greater comfort level to public concerns and, she
recommended holding the hearing open until this analysis is received as well as any information TTOR feel they
need to submit with regard to the paving issue. Tocchio again requested four weeks to get documents and engage
their own consultants to conduct mirror analysis. Healey Dippold commented that she is not talking about having
another long set of hearings. Modzelewski noted that he and Barnes reviewed data provided by the applicant—they
do not have their own data—so TTOR data would be required. Menge replied —with respect to those addresses-
in conducting TTOR analysis, they selected the closest locations,the worst case locations and, all the locations
just mentioned are further away than those in their analysis—since sound levels drop off with distance,noise
impacts will be reduced at those locations and, given the significant margins shown at the residential areas for any
potential impacts in regards to State requirements there is no chance they will come close to any violations of State
Standards at any of those further locations.
Andrew Strehle,231 Leavitt St.,Hingham: suggested they are ignoring the straight valley that runs between his
home and the tower—the houses that are closer are behind hills. Menge noted that given the turbine height—they
don't see the variations in sound levels with changes in terrain—there is less variation with distance,valleys and
hills and the assessment did account for the shielding effects of the global terrain but there is not a lot of variation
associated with that. Healey Dippold asked Barnes if he would agree that it is fair to say that to the extent that any
of the properties she cited are farther away from the property listed on that previous chart,that the decibel
projection would be lower than the worst case scenario for the farthest away property which is less than one?
Barnes replied that it is representative—all else being equal,the further away you get from the source, sound will
drop off—if there are significant reflective surfaces, it could increase. The model shown in the original report—
there are some areas to the NW of the turbine where noise drops off faster, otherwise it is fairly uniform as you
move away from the tower. Healey Dippold would still prefer information with respect to the paving of the road
and the shadow flicker.
Planning Board Meeting APPROVED MINUTES 12 of 12
December 15,2010
Joseph Joyce, 141 CJC Hwy.,Hingham: Is possible to get an actual physical simulation? Moore replied that the
Board has tried this in the past with very bad experiences so the Board has chosen to go with modeling and peer
review by experts.
Stephen Andrus, P.E. —GZA,Providence Office: with regards to paving the road and Modzelewski's request to
regrade the road he requests that the stormwater not be redone at this point as it has to be done again after the
geotechnical and foundation design and impervious area will change again—he would request that they be allowed
to make all those changes once. Healey Dippold asked Modzelewski if he has enough data—notwithstanding the
paving issue-to assist the Board with site monitoring with respect to drainage—Modzelewski believes he does and
that we generally ask applicants to meet existing runoff conditions post-construction—it is easy for applicant to hit
that target with a pervious surface but now that it is going to a percentage more impervious, it might require a
somewhat larger detention basin but it is entirely doable.
Andrew Strehle,231 Leavitt St.,Hingham: re: 20'retaining wall—how will reducing grade to 9.5%impact the
height of the wall? Andrus replied that they can make some changes to the driveway and shift the crane assembly
area to the east. If he left the crane assembly area and pad where it was, they would propose a 10'retaining wall in
that area—and he feels they can adjust things without changing the height and,the holly growth is approx. 700'to
the east of the proposed tower area and will not be effected.
Joseph Joyce, 141 CJC Hwy.,Hingham: Is there any change of reverberation against the water tower? Menge
replied that there is not significant reverberation off a round structure.
James Gruver, 16 Great Rock Rd.,Hingham: Great Rock Rd. is in a rocky cove. Asked if Board would request
addition information for this location with a .3 ground factor now,before the turbine is built rather than waiting
until after it is built and shutting it down if noise exceeds state levels? Loria replied that they were already
requested to look at .5 and they looked at.5 and now they are being requested to look at a different number. Loria
added that the location of the turbine to the nearest receptors is primarily woods,not paved surface.
Modzelewski noted that sound consultant Barnes has given verbal opinion—suggested Board leave hearing open to
accept Barnes' written opinion.
MOTION: By Member Ivimey to close the public hearing
SECOND: Member Hannon
Member Healey Dippold thought there would be no harm to leave the public hearing open to receive Barnes'
material and written submission. Member Samuelson stated that he has listened to the objections to the turbines and
is empathetic, is concerned about the benefits to Cohasset but, the Board still has to evaluate this application
against the bylaw and does not think more discovery will help him make a decision. Samuelson also added that if
the Board were to deny this application and it were appealed,the Board would have no ability to impose any
conditions on it whereas an approval with stringent conditions that represented the strong feelings that residents
have provides better control than an appeal. Samuelson leans towards closing the public hearing. Member Hannon
thinks the Board is at the point of beating a dead horse—he leans towards closing the hearing. Member Brewer
thinks the Board has a lot of information and is fine with closing the public hearing. Member Moore,while he is
torn about this and has tried to give everyone a chance to speak at the hearing and,while he understands the issues
very well,he does not think additional information will make a difference for him.
VOTE: 5- 1 MOTION CARRIES
Henderson to provide Site Plan Review extension to January 20`h
MOTION: By Member Ivimey to reconvene for deliberation on January 12,2011 at 8:00 P.M.
SECOND: Member Brewer
VOTE: 6-0 MOTION CARRIES
MOTION: By Member Ivimey to adjourn at 12:50 A.M.
SECOND: Member Brewer
VOTE: 5-0 MOTION CARRIES
NEXT REGULAR MEETING: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12 , 2011 AT 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES APPROVED: JEAN HEALEY DIPPOLD, CLERK
DATE: JANUARY 26,2011