The Rochester Planning Board on Tuesday adopted new bylaw language for swapping conservation, recreation, or open-space parcels within a subdivision.
In essence, this addition to town zoning regulations sets the necessary steps that had not previously been specified when a subdivision permit is reopened for the purpose of swapping one open-space parcel for another within that project.
In the public hearing that preceded the vote, board member Ben Bailey, who recommended the change, said other town officials agree it is worth doing. His only suggestion before the approval was that the parcel being swapped should be located as close as possible to the subdivision requesting the move.
Chair Arnold Johnson explained that in prior years the panel held that a Conservation Restriction land such as this cannot be privately owned. However, the board has encountered more than one request from subdivision developers for such a swap of one open-space parcel for another within their projects. Thus, the board decided to create a way to make such a move possible with the necessary steps. Bailey emphasized that this change is not due to one project but inspired by several.
Next, the board met with John Alfonso of Townhome Development, Rochester Crossroads, to scold him about beginning foundation construction work on new homes without a preconstruction meeting first or other notifications. Johnson said he was disappointed with project’s main engineering consultant. “He knows our rules,” Johnson said. Alfonso apologized and promised not to repeat the oversight.
In other action, the board continued to May 12 its Site Plan Review and Special Permit hearings for High Street Solar 1 and 2 at 0 High Street.
The board also continued to May 12 its Site Plan Review hearing on a proposal to clear and regrade land behind Town Hall for an 8,220-square foot parking lot.
The board continued to June 23 its hearing into a proposed land-swap modification of the Definitive Subdivision permit for the previously approved Snipatuit Pond Estates at Gerrish and Bishop roads, and the panel extended the project’s decision deadline to July 14, 2026.
The board appointed Town Planner Michaela Shoemaker as its representative on the SRPEDD Commission board for 2026-27.
The board scheduled two site visits for May 20: Connet Woods at 6:00 pm and High Street Solar at 7:00 pm.
The Rochester Planning Board’s next meeting will be Tuesday, May 12 at 7:00 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.
Rochester Planning Board
By Michael J. DeCicco