Select Board — June 8, 2026

The board inquired about how Eversource anticipates future load increases from factors like electrification and potential data centers. There was also a specific concern regarding whether the transition to a four-substation model would reduce the frequency of power outages for Burlington residents.

Eversource representatives explained that they use actual customer applications for forecasting and that the new distribution lines and simulations are designed specifically to improve local reliability.

Board members expressed concern over the visual impact of large towers and fencing, particularly in winter when trees are bare. They also asked about operational noise (humming) from transformers. A question was raised regarding whether the substation would produce a hum or significant noise once operational. Project representatives explained that while transformers do produce some low-level noise, a noise consultant is involved in the project.

Eversource noted they work with property owners on planting and are using noise consultants to model and mitigate potential sounds as part of their EFSB filing. The project team will use existing background noise data and upcoming equipment specifications to model noise levels and determine if mitigation, such as fencing, is necessary.

Eversource will continue developing renderings and photo simulations to provide the community with better visual context. Noise modeling results and mitigation plans will be included in the filing to the EFSP.

The board raised concerns about the removal of over two acres of vegetation and changes to stormwater runoff. Questions were asked regarding existing contact with the town's conservation department.

Eversource confirmed they are incorporating a stormwater basin into the design and have been holding monthly meetings with the Planning Board and Conservation Agent.

Eversource will include stormwater permits and a Notice of Intent in their EFSB filing package.

The board requested clarity on how large equipment (125-foot towers) would be transported to avoid blocking residential driveways. There was also concern that the community had not been adequately notified about the project. There was a clarification that an existing gravel access road exists, rather than a new one being built. The board discussed the road's location, its narrowness between houses, and whether it would require paving or regular maintenance like plowing. Representatives noted that once construction is complete, site access will be minimal as it is not a manned facility.

Eversource plans to use an existing access road via the water department near Mill Pond to avoid neighborhood streets. They outlined a multi-channel engagement strategy including mailers, library sessions, and a project website. The engineering and specific next steps for the road remain in flux and are still being worked through.

A public hybrid meeting is scheduled for June 24th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Continued engineering design for the access road.

a speaker noted that the project documentation clarifies the roles of various town entities, such as the Select Board's involvement in grant allocation and the DPW/Conservation's roles in earth-moving and stormwater permits. A representative emphasized that while some permits are state-level, there will be active consultations with town administration and departments.

The board acknowledged their specific roles in the oversight and permitting process.

Active consultations between the project team and town departments (Select Board, DPW, etc.) will continue.