Commission sets July public hearing for 18-unit adult housing project in Berlin

The Wells Watercourse Commission voted to schedule a public hearing on application 26-05W, a proposed 18-unit adult common-interest community submitted by Newport Realty Group, with the hearing set for July 7 to allow public comment on zoning and environmental issues.

Andrew Park, principal and professional engineer with Pratzer Jones & Associates, presented the site and said the parcel totals 9.87 acres but the development footprint will be within the 8.99 acres that remain in Berlin. He described two wetland pockets (one about 0.15 acres, another about 0.66 acres) and said the project proposes 18 single-family homes managed by a homeowners association, private roads and on-site utilities.

Park described a stormwater design he said meets state standards using TR-55 modeling and a three-stage basin. He said the design achieves a "zero increase in runoff" for storms from the 2-year to the 100-year events and that the project proposes about "0.42 acres" of regulated upland impact largely for construction of a stormwater berm; he also cited an estimated 230 cubic feet of fill associated with basin formation. Park said the project will require a zoning change and standard planning and zoning approvals before permitting proceeds.

Commissioner Rogen moved to hold a public hearing because the parcel straddles town lines and would affect multiple jurisdictions; the motion was seconded and approved. The hearing was scheduled for July 7; staff will coordinate public notices and signage.

The commissioners and staff asked the applicant to proceed with concurrent zoning and permitting steps and to coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions for notice. The public hearing will be the next formal opportunity for neighbors to raise concerns and for the commission to collect additional testimony.