Conservation Commission — September 17, 2026

The Fairhaven Conservation Commission met on September 21, 2026, to consider several notices of intent, requests for extensions, certificates of compliance, and enforcement violations. Key public hearings included a contentious request by applicant representative Dave Davignon to withdraw without prejudice a notice of intent for 162 Main Street, which was opposed by attorney Nicholas Gomes on behalf of abutter Frances Hoffman of 164 Main Street, who argued for a denial with prejudice. The Commission decided to table the withdrawal until October 5, 2026, to consult with Town Counsel. The Commission also reviewed a proposal for a 75-foot pier and float at 10 Oxford Street represented by Davignon, voting to continue the hearing to October 26, 2026, pending Zoning Board of Appeals review.

A significant portion of the meeting addressed a notice of intent filed by Foth Infrastructure & Environment on behalf of Rodman Candleworks Realty LLC and Kevin McLaughlin of Fairhaven Shipyard for minor reconfigurations and pile work at 48-50 Fort Street. Neighbor Eric Berg of 62 Fort Street and abutter Jeff Canastra of 2 Paradise Drive raised strong objections regarding riparian rights, property line conflicts, and potential wave displacement related to a proposed 80-foot wave break. The Commission voted unanimously to continue the hearing to permit further review of survey lines and engineering plans. In other business, the Commission approved a multi-year extension through 2030 for the Marsh Island project on Tabor Street and closed out a certificate of compliance for 128 Huddleston Avenue.

Under enforcement orders, the Commission voted to levy an additional $300 fine on 364 Huddleston Avenue for non-response, while placing violations on hold for 0 Huddleston Avenue pending their active application. In general business, the Commission discussed reported unauthorized damage near the beach at Manondock related to recent water line work. Commissioner Drum also presented a drafted letter to the Select Board urging the town to maintain and promptly post a full-time Conservation Agent position following the departure of former agent Kelly.

AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Watch the video to verify.