Conservation Commission — July 15, 2026

On July 15, 2026 the Watertown Conservation Commission approved the redevelopment proposal at 59 Clarendon Street. The plan converts existing warehouse buildings into a five-story self-storage facility and a one-story building for Mass General Brigham’s ambulance service. Commissioners raised legitimate questions about the site’s high percentage of impervious surface, the stormwater system’s ability to handle 100-year storms, snow storage locations, electrical transformers, and the fact that new wetland flagging wasn’t possible because an adjacent owner denied access. In the end, the board unanimously accepted the application with 24 detailed special conditions.

The same meeting included lengthy discussion of the Commission’s own draft Rules of Practice and Procedure. Topics included remote voting during hybrid meetings, the exact duties of the Clerk, public comment requirements (name and address), and how the Chair appoints the Community Preservation Act liaison. After debate, they postponed a final vote until the September meeting so staff can incorporate the suggested changes.

Also that night, Leo was elected Chair, Rachel was elected Clerk, and the Vice Chair position was left vacant for potential new members. Staff updated the board on ongoing enforcement matters and the slow process of digitizing historic paper records at City Hall.

These are exactly the kinds of decisions that shape our neighborhoods and the credibility of our boards. The Clarendon project now moves to the Planning Board on August 12. Watertown residents who care about flooding, traffic, open space, and transparent local government should pay close attention and consider attending future meetings. Development decisions with environmental consequences should not be treated as routine agenda items. https://meetingwatch.org/ma/watertown/conservation-commission/2026-07-15/ #MeetingWatch #WatertownMA