Residents report developer cleared scenic‑road trees; board to refer matter to planning board

Scott Shard, a resident, told the Select Board town staff and the planning board that five trees over 15 inches circumference were cut in the scenic‑road right‑of‑way on Colburn Road and that heavy clearing occurred on steep slopes without visible silt fences or a stormwater control plan.

"Five trees were cut in the scenic road in the public right of way," Shard said, and he reported he could not find a current building or driveway permit for the work. Planning staff noted the subdivision plan had been approved in 2022 for a prior developer and that three lots had since sold; the current clearing appears to have exceeded permitted operations. Board members directed staff to coordinate with Shannon (planning staff) and, if necessary, refer the matter back to the planning board for enforcement, replanting or other remedies.

Members discussed that pursuing a fine could be expensive and that the planning process and permits should be reviewed to determine which violations occurred; staff will report back with permit checks and recommended next steps.