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.