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Politics & Government

Seekonk Board Approves Plans for New Subdivision

The Seekonk Planning Board approved the plans for a new subdivision called Caleb Estates.

The Seekonk Planning Board approved the plans for a new subdivision, known as Caleb Estates, that would feature four new house lots at 160 Olney St.

Paul Carlson of InSite Engineering Services spoke at the meeting on behalf of DeCastro Builders, who are behind the project.

The subdivision would create lots for four houses, as well as create a new road, which has been approved by the town’s Conservation Commission and the Department of Public Works. The has also reviewed the plans and seen no problems with the proposal.

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One key sticking point was the preservation of easements of wetlands and swales on the property, which need to be properly maintained for both conservation and drainage purposes.

“Someone is going to come in. Who is going to be responsible to make sure the homeowners' association is doing what they are required?” asked planning board member Russ Horsman.

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This will be accomplished through the creation of a homeowners' association, which requires them to care for these aspects of their property. Additionally, it requires the homeowners to pay $1,200, collectively, every year for the specific purpose of maintaining and repairing these.  

Additionally, a report on whether or not the homeowners are in compliance will be made on a yearly basis by the DPW and homeowners would be charged with the cost of repairs if things are not found in compliance.

Two residents who live on property adjacent to the proposed subdivision voiced their concerns with the project.

Lydia Cordeiro is concerned with the possibility of flooding from the additional drainage from the new homes. She said recent rain there has already been flooding in her yard and that the new homes would just make it worse.

Carlson responded by saying the new homes use an underground drainage system so the runoff would not drain into the yard. Additionally, the swales on the property are in place specifically to direct overflow to the retention pond in the rear of the property.

The retention pond was also an issue for Cordeiro, as she said it can be a breeding ground for mosquitos.

“Detention ponds are a common drainage structure. I would say that the majority of the storm events that will happen will not result in water in that back pond,” said Carlson. “It is a wetland out in the back, so it is a natural breeding ground for mosquitos.”

Jason Audet, who also owns property adjacent to the project, echoed Cordeiro’s concerns.

Both Audet and Cordeiro were also concerned with the lack of privacy between their homes and the ones in the new subdivision. However, the planning board said that is a private matter that would have to be discussed with DeCastro.

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