Bakersfield DRB gives conditional OK to three‑lot subdivision after stormwater and fire‑access conditions

The Bakersfield Development Review Board voted to approve a final subdivision plan conditionally, saying the developer must secure fire‑department sign‑off on access and provide a written engineering statement regarding stormwater management and erosion control before the plat can be finalized.

The applicant, Dennis Borbeau, presented revised drawings showing septic service areas and access to Lot 2 and said his engineer had reviewed test pits and did not find wetland soils. "I can provide you an additional, document from the engineer stating that ... we are not going to be affecting that and that the water flow does not flow towards any of the neighbors," Borbeau said.

Neighbors pressed the board for clarification on whether stormwater or drainage changes could create new wet spots or alter flows onto adjacent properties. Board members and attendees debated whether the board had authority over stormwater details or whether that review fell to the Agency of Natural Resources or the state wastewater permitting process; the board agreed to ask the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) for guidance on its jurisdiction.

After discussion, members moved to approve the final plat conditioned on (1) written confirmation from the fire department that access and turnaround are adequate and (2) a written statement from the applicant (or applicant's engineer) demonstrating how the project will meet the town's stormwater management requirements in the bylaws; the motion passed 4–0. The board scheduled a follow‑up meeting in early September to consider the documentation and, if complete, sign the Mylar for recording.