Orleans Conservation Commission Continues Hausman Hearing, Approves Tides End Berm Compliance

ORLEANS -- March 3, 2026, Orleans Conservation Commission clears a 2009 flood-control berm and delays a coastal bank decision in an eight-minute session. The commission voted 6-0 Tuesday to approve a certificate of compliance for Betsy Bentley's property at 66 Tides End Lane, DEP file 54-2021, confirming that an earthen vegetated berm built to prevent flooding within the Pleasant Bay Area of Critical Environmental Concern was completed as permitted and clearing the way for a property conveyance. Associate Member Dave Lyttle recused himself from that vote, stating he had originally permitted the project. The board also voted 6-0 to continue a public hearing on Ezra and Maureen Hausman's proposed construction at 17 Pilgrim Lake Terrace East, which includes a screened porch, interior landing, septic tank, and two parking areas within the 100-foot coastal bank buffer, to March 17. Conservation Agent John Jannell described the berm as "largely still there today but you would never notice it." Vice Chair Jerry Wander and Member Dick Hilmer were absent.