Planning Board approves partial covenant release for Bentley Road subdivision, sets performance‑bond condition

The Harwich Planning Board on June 23 approved a partial covenant release for the Bentley Road subdivision that releases Lot 4 for conveyance while requiring Lot 5 to be placed under the subdivision covenant and the applicant to complete roadway and utility work under a performance bond, the board said.

Planning staff explained the request arrived the afternoon of the meeting and the applicant has been coordinating with town counsel on performance‑bond language. Staff read a draft condition stating the subdivision improvements must be completed in accordance with the subdivision plan by April 14, 2027, or such later date, and that a construction performance bond (discussed in the meeting at $150,000) will secure completion.

Board members asked how Lot 5 will be returned to the covenant and whether land‑owner signatures and registry recording are required; staff said the applicant must file the signed covenant and any releases with the Barnstable County Registry of Deeds. The board moved, seconded and voted unanimously to approve PB2026‑10 with the conditions described in the covenant release language and consistent registry recording requirements.

Staff said final paperwork will be prepared for board signatures and the applicant must file documents with the registry of deeds before closing.