Essex P&Z approves converting retaining wall to slope at Essex Glen with $100,000 bond

The Essex Planning and Zoning Commission on July 7 approved a modification to Special Exception PZC #15-5 to convert an existing retaining wall to a stabilized rock slope at the Essex Glen development, with the Town holding a $100,000 performance bond for one year to guarantee performance.

Town Engineer Bob Doane presented the project history and described revised engineering intended to improve slope stability and drainage. Contractor representatives described construction sequencing and timing; Attorney David Royston confirmed the Town will retain $100,000 of the project bond for a one-year warranty period following completion.

Homeowner Nancy Miller asked whether the slope would be composed of rock or earth, raised concerns about drainage, potential collapse affecting her deck and erosion of lawns. Bob Doane responded with engineering details and said the plan includes stabilization measures and lawn restoration. Ben Bossi, president of the homeowners association, stated the association supports the proposed solution.

The Commission approved the modification with the bond condition (motion by David Kirsch, seconded by Mark Reeves), and the motion carried unanimously.

Next steps: installation will be supervised by the Town engineer per the approved plan, and the Town will retain the $100,000 bond for one year after construction completion.