Bylaw Language Changes Undertaken

Noting that the Planning Board has no power to change bylaws, only to suggest language changes that would improve the text for public consumption, Chairman Tom Tucker and the board began the line-by-line review. Starting with zoning bylaws that cover signs and parking, the full board worked through and discussed wording that would make the most sense. After some time spent discussing whether signs be lighted from within or the size and number of parking spaces, John Mathieu will tackle writing a draft for parking, while Mary Crain will take on signs. When the board reconvenes at the next meeting, a draft will be presented, further tweaks made, and a final draft prepared for public hearings.

During their discussions on the bylaws, members referred to the necessity for site plan review, noting that it would be better if the Zoning Board of Appeals after granting a waiver sent the applicant back to the planning board for site plan review. This they felt would help ensure that plans submitted to the town were followed.

Bonnie DeSousa asked if they board would be reviewing the bylaws for solar and wind farms. Mathieu said they would be doing so once they established their processes for bylaw review with smaller sections such as parking and signs. At the next meeting, they will dig into screening, common driveways, and trailers.

In other business, Peter Loyd of 65 Mattapoisett Neck Rd. came before the board requesting their review and advice on the best way to pursue preparing the sale of lots he owns in this neighborhood. All of the lots are presently non-conforming, with the exception of one that has been deemed by the Building Department as grandfathered and therefore buildable. The board suggested it would be appropriate for Loyd to return to the building department for further guidance.

Next up was Dan Daluz, representing the residents of the Village at Mattapoisett Condominium association. Recently, the association learned that possibly other “private” areas were receiving town services in the form of trash removal and questioned the board as to whether the association could, as well.

“We pay taxes like everyone else,” said Daluz, adding, “and it’s been 10 years.”

Tucker and Ron Merlo both explained to Daluz that certain beach communities that had previously been private, opened their roadways up for public use in order to receive town services such as trash removal and snow plowing. Daluz was not aware that the intelligence the association had received might not have been correct and appreciated the time the board took explaining the conditions previously decided when the developer approached the town for “special residential development.”

With that, the board approved last meeting’s minutes and adjourned.

By Marilou Newell

mtplanning

 

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