Dover Conservation Commission Approves Pool Project, Driveway Work at December Meeting

DOVER -- December 4, 2024, Dover Conservation Commission unanimously approved three land-use applications and voted to seek budget increases at its December 4 meeting. The commission issued an order of conditions for a pool and poolhouse reconstruction at 15 Hamlin's Crossing, where property owners David and Kristen Gross will reduce the poolhouse footprint from roughly 1,342 to 912 square feet and install a new underground stormwater infiltration system; two waivers were approved under the grandfather policy for work within the 50- and 70-foot wetland buffer zones. The board also approved a driveway expansion at 139 Center Street, continuing a noticed notice of intent for 81-85 Tisdale Drive pending a revised vernal pool survey. On the FY26 budget, due to selectmen by Friday, the commission voted to request $5,000 increases in both its land management and trail maintenance funds and an additional $1,500 for legal advertising, while authorizing the chair to negotiate a new temporary-staff salary line to address a 32-meeting minutes backlog estimated to cost at least $7,000 to clear. Conservation Agent Janet Dunlap's invoice of $8,117.50 was approved unanimously.