The Milton Planning Board moved forward with infrastructure changes to support the new East Milton Fire Station, centering on the removal of a traffic island and a mature tree on Adams Street to ensure emergency vehicles can navigate the site. Brian Walsh, chairman of the Fire Station Building Committee, emphasized that the current configuration posed a significant safety risk for the two-bay station. To lose a minute is a significant problem, Walsh told the board, explaining that the island's location prevented trucks from exiting and turning safely. Tree Warden Branch Lane recommended a $2,000 mitigation fee to account for the loss of town infrastructure, noting that while the removal was necessary for safety, the town should be compensated for the loss of the canopy.

The proposal drew concern from neighbors regarding traffic speeds and neighborhood aesthetics. Resident Jen Johnson, whose home faces the site, worried that the removal would eliminate a natural traffic calming measure. That island also slows traffic down considerably, Johnson noted. Neighbor Kathleen Powers raised concerns about the station's proximity to school dismissal traffic, while Tom Caldwell argued for a more aggressive plan to replace mature trees lost during construction to mitigate noise and air pollution. Construction manager Allan Frolley assured the board that 13 new trees are included in the station's landscaping plan. Motion Made by C. Tougias to authorize the scenic road tree removal for the fire station project with a $2,000 contribution to the tree planting account and the addition of a cobblestone apron to maintain the road's character. Motion Passed (3-0-1), with Member Jim Davis abstaining due to questions regarding future state-led traffic projects in the area.

In a separate scenic road hearing, the board addressed a private request at 179 Highland Street. Applicant Tasha Wells sought to remove a Norway maple that she said was damaging a historic stone wall. The root systems are affecting the actual stone wall, Wells explained, noting the invasive roots had already compromised a new fence. Branch Lane agreed that while the tree provided carbon sequestration, its removal would not be a great loss to the town's overall canopy. Resident Gene spoke in favor of the request, highlighting the homeowners' history of property investment. Motion Made by C. Tougias to authorize the removal at 179 Highland Street contingent on a $630 cooperative tree planting fee. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

The board also addressed a lot subdivision at 120 Highland Street, where the owner plans to raze an existing home to create two parcels. Chair Meredith Hall confirmed that the proposal met all checklist requirements for the Residence C zone. Motion Made by J. Davis to authorize the "Approval Not Required" status for 120 Highland Street. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

Policy discussions shifted toward the town's future zoning articles, including a substantial overhaul of the sign bylaw. Secretary Cheryl Tougias pushed for modern prohibitions, stating, I would like to see audible signs prohibited. If I live next door to an audible sign, I'd go bananas. Member Jim Davis expressed caution regarding the definition of "abandoned" signs to avoid creating unnecessary "red tape" for landlords with vacant storefronts. The board also discussed new traffic mitigation triggers for large developments. Reflecting on the board's heavy workload over the past two years, Member Margaret Oldfield supported a revised summer schedule, noting that taking a little block of time for ourselves is warranted.