Townsend Select Board Tackles Accessory Apartment Permit Issue
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/27/2024
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Recording Published:
03/29/2024
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Duration:
40 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Townsend
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent Townsend Select Board meeting, the board grappled with the complexities of special permits for accessory apartments, including the necessity of recording these permits and their expiration upon property transfer. The board also voted to continue a public hearing for an accessory apartment on Main Street and discussed the implementation of the town’s master plan, water protection regulations, and compliance with MBTA guidelines.
During the meeting, the board opened a public hearing for the renewal of a special permit for an accessory apartment located on Main Street. This discussion brought to light broader concerns regarding the recording of such permits and their validity upon the transfer of property. The board members engaged in a debate about whether it is necessary for accessory apartment special permits to be recorded to be valid and what happens to these permits when the property changes hands.
Furthermore, the board addressed the issue of virtual meeting attendance, acknowledging the challenge of an individual joining the meeting as “Anonymous.” They noted the limitation in preventing someone from attending a virtual meeting without proper identification, underlining the importance of transparency and accountability in the digital meeting environment.
The public hearing for the accessory apartment permit on Main Street was a focus, with the board discussing referrals from various departments and boards. The necessity of a site visit was raised, and arrangements were made to continue the special permit hearing on Wednesday, April 10 at 7 o’clock, with a site visit scheduled for a later date. Concerns were also voiced about the applicant’s responsiveness.
A new resident took the opportunity to introduce themselves during the meeting, showing a keen interest in learning more about a project in the area. This interaction exemplifies the board’s engagement with community members and their openness to public participation in local governance.
The Select Board also delved into discussions about upcoming planning board public hearings and the importance for board members to partake in a survey related to MBTA 3A compliance. This was indicative of the board’s ongoing efforts to align with regional transportation guidelines and standards.
A presentation on the implementation of the town’s master plan was another topic of discussion, with a focus on strategic goals pertaining to water, recreation and open space, and economic development. However, concerns were raised about delays in implementing proposed changes to the town charter.
The town’s water protection regulations were a topic of discussion, specifically the need for technical and scientific review of the bylaws.
Eric Slagle
City Council Officials:
Charles Sexton-Diranian, Joseph Shank, Theresa Morse
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/27/2024
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Recording Published:
03/29/2024
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Duration:
40 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Townsend
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