HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Comment June23_18WinfieldLaneProjectHowardCommentsJune 23, 2026
To: Barnstable Conservation Commission
Re: Notice of Intent to construct pool and cabana at 18 Winfield Lane
Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on the proposed project at 18 Winfield Lane. We are the owners of 40 Winfield Lane, which we have lived in and loved for 17 years. Our
family shares this Commission’s focus on conservation; I currently sit on the Board of Barnstable’s Clean Water Coalition with focus on promoting advanced septic systems.
I want to begin by saying that we respect our neighbors and understand their desire to improve their property. We are not opposed to development of the site. However, we do want to note
our concern that the current proposal raises significant questions regarding stormwater management, floodplain impacts, and long-term site stability that do not appear to us to be fully
addressed.
As you know from the application, a percentage of 18 Winfield is located within a flood zone, and the proposal would involve importing fill and raising that area of the site by over
three feet. This planned fill activity extends quiteuncomfortably close to our shared property line, with a fairly sharp slope designated for the transition from fill area down to the
property line. This slope is similarly pitched toward Winfield Lane on the East side of the property. Whenever land within a flood-prone area is elevated, there is potential for changes
in how stormwater is stored, absorbed, and conveyed during heavy rain events.
A key concern is whether the proposed elevation and grading changes could alter drainage patterns in ways that affect neighboring properties or increase flooding risks elsewhere. As
we know, water displaced from one location must ultimately go somewhere. We believe the board should be fully satisfied that the project will not create unintended consequences for adjacent
landowners or the broader flood zone.
We are also concerned about the proposed removal of most of the existing trees on the property. As we know, mature trees provide important environmental functions that are particularly
relevant in a flood zone setting. Their root systems help stabilize soil, reduce erosion, increase infiltration of rainwater into the ground, and slow the movement of stormwater during
significant rain events. We do have a plan to plant several trees on our side of the property line but it will, of course, take years to approach the majesty and function of those removed
in this plan.
The proposal combines two substantial changes occurring simultaneously: first, the importation of fill and alteration of existing grades; and second, the removal of mature trees whose
root systems currently contribute to soil stability and stormwater absorption. Taken together, these changes warrant careful review.
We note that on page 1 of the proposal a “Narrative” does includes the claim that “The project should have no adverse impact….”. We respectfully ask the Board to consider whether sufficient
analysis has been provided to demonstrate that:
The proposed fill will not increase flooding risk on neighboring properties or elsewhere within the flood zone.
Existing drainage patterns will not be adversely altered.
Adequate stormwater controls are in place to manage runoff during major storm events.
Soil stability and erosion concerns resulting from tree removal have been fully addressed.
Appropriate mitigation measures have been incorporated to replace the stormwater and stabilization functions currently provided by the existing vegetation.
We are not asking the Board to deny reasonable improvements to the property. Rather, we are asking that any approval be based on clear evidence that the project can proceed without increasing
flood, drainage, or erosion risks for neighboring properties and the surrounding environment.
Thank you for your consideration.
Michael and Sandra Howard
40 Winfield Lane