Proposed Sawmill Raises Residential Concerns
Sawdust, Sidewalks & Shenanigans: Farmington’s Conservation Commission Talks Timber and Trails
Farmington’s Inland Wetlands and Conservation Commission convened promptly at 7:01 p.m. on February 5, 2024, tackling sidewalk expansions, a proposed sawmill, and the impending retirement of their beloved clerk, Sandy, after nearly two decades of service. But first, a nod to our sponsor, the illustrious Farmington Storage—because everyone has baggage, why not store yours stylishly at 155 Scott Swamp Road? Call them at 860.777.4001. You’ll thank us later.
Civil engineer Justin Stone, making his official debut after his colleague Dylan, another engineer from the town’s staff, stood in during the last meeting, presented a sidewalk proposal stretching approximately 5,500 linear feet along Meadow Road. The project, featuring three dedicated pedestrian crossings, connects neighborhoods to both school grounds and trails. “I appreciate you guys finding that [driveway] error for me. Made my job a little bit easier,” remarked Stone, sparking mild amusement among commissioners who seemed accustomed to catching the occasional planning hiccup.
Commissioner Robert Eisner succinctly noted, “the public safety improvements outweigh any minor impact on the wetland,” quickly gaining agreement from fellow commissioners Mark Simpson and Jay Tulin. Approval came swiftly, conditional on continued coordination between engineering, construction, and environmental staff.
The evening’s intrigue heightened with the town’s proposal to establish a permanent sawmill operation at 8750 Roma Drive, affectionately termed “the Coop” by Public Works staff. Currently, the town-owned sawmill is inconveniently mobile, prompting regular leveling before each use. The proposed timber structure, designed to house the sawmill and store lumber, raised eyebrows primarily due to its residential surroundings.
Justin Stone addressed key environmental concerns, noting the two eastern hemlocks on site infested by the woolly adelgid—a notoriously destructive insect—would be responsibly removed. Commissioner Neil Kelsey, ever candid, called the sawmill concept “a terrible idea,” emphasizing concerns about potential noise, disturbance, and overall unsuitability given its close proximity to residential areas, though he conceded zoning would ultimately decide its fate.
Commissioner Mark Simpson questioned the disposal method of the infested trees, humorously pondering if they might ironically become the sawmill’s first victims. Stone reassured the commission that Public Works would engage specialized arborists for appropriate disposal, ensuring the infestation wouldn’t spread.
The sawmill proposal, classified as a non-significant activity, was accepted with cautionary notes about zoning approval scheduled for March 24.
Closing the evening was a bittersweet farewell to Sandy, whose 19-and-a-half-year tenure had anchored countless meetings. “Without her, I’d be lost,” admitted Bruce, the commission’s planner. Lance Hanson, Sandy’s successor, was warmly welcomed, though Commissioner Fox humorously cautioned him not to “get used to 7:30 nights.”
With light-hearted camaraderie, the meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m., setting a cheerful, albeit brief, precedent for Lance’s expectations.
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Authored by Jack Beckett, Senior Writer at The Farmington Mercury. Fueled exclusively by black coffee and mild disdain for mornings.
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