LYNDEBOROUGH – On Oct. 17, the Board of Selectmen met jointly with the Planning Board and the Conservation Commission to discuss the town’s position on the construction of an asphalt processing plant in Wilton. The lot where the plant would be located is on the Lyndeborough town line, making the proposal one of regional impact. (Temple and Milford boards have also responded via letters).

Because the hearing before the Zoning Board of Adjustment was scheduled for last night (Oct. 23) the same night as the regular meeting of the Select Board, Conservation Commission Chairman Sharon Akers was designated the town’s representative to the hearing.

The proposal has been presented by Quinn Brothers Corp. of Amherst, owners of the property off Route 31 north, behind and above the location of Goss Park. The closest Lyndeborough residents are located on Cram Hill Road, all of whom abut adjoining Quinn properties.

It was the stated opinion of Select Board Chairman Mark Chamberlain, and several others present, the proposal will end up in court however the Wilton ZBA rules. The only question before the ZBA is a variance from the town’s height restrictions. The proposed plant is in the industrial zone and therefore a possible permitted use.

About 15 people attended the meeting on Thursday and many said they planned to attend the hearing in Wilton as well.

Chamberlain and Town Administrator Russ Boland agreed to craft a letter to the Wilton board which would be circulated among the various town boards for signatures. Akers was to take the letter and read it into the minutes of the hearing.

Concerns listed by those present include effects of the plant on air and water quality; noise; smell; effects on neighboring property values; increased traffic on both Route 31 and local roads; and changes to the two town’s rural character.

Also discussed was the ability of area fire departments to deal with a fire. Lyndeborough would be among the first responders to an incident.

If the ZBA accepts the plan, it will go to the Planning Board for site plan approval. Most of the town’s concerns would be addressed at that time. The town can also appeal a decision.

The Conservation Commission provided several handouts including a list of asphalt producers in southern New Hampshire, (Pike, BROX Industries, and Continental Paving), and background information about Quinn Brothers, as well as a list of possible emissions from such a plant.

According to state and federal regulations, with proper controls in place, emissions are reduced to “acceptable standards,” but those familiar with such plants said noise and odor are still “unacceptable.”