Hopkinton Zoning Committee Tackles MBTA Communities Bylaw Challenges

The Hopkinton Zoning Advisory Committee recently held a meeting to discuss several issues, with a primary focus on the challenges presented by the MBTA Communities bylaw. Among the topics were the inclusion of Woodview and Windsor properties in the proposed MBTA overlay map, potential development of various town properties, and the ramifications of non-compliance with the MBTA Communities Act.

The committee scrutinized a proposed map from the planning board, which pinpointed potential areas for development, including the Woodview Apartments, the Windsor Apartments, and the downtown district. Deliberations centered on whether these locations would meet the state’s criteria, with particular doubts about Woodview’s eligibility due to its development under the osma district, and Windsor’s inclusion, being developed under a comprehensive permit. The committee sought clarity on these complex zoning designations.

Another area of concern was the potential impact of MBTA type Community Development within Woodville. There were apprehensions about the effect on open space requirements and the level of development that could be supported in the area. The advisability of this development type was questioned regarding its eligibility for state approval. The discussion also dealt with the Windsor lot, with the committee requesting a closer examination of the parcel to ascertain its development potential, especially in the southern portion, and its permissibility under the existing 40B comprehensive permit.

The committee addressed the possible consequences of failing to comply with the MBTA Communities Act, which could include forfeiting grant money and risking legal action from the Attorney General. The cost of potential legal defense and its financial implications for the town’s residents were also considered. The committee evaluated the development potential of several parcels, notably in the South Street area and downtown district, to meet density requirements. This included a debate on the inclusion of specific properties on the MBTA overlay map, considering factors such as proximity to public transportation and the impact on the commercial tax base. Questions arose about the feasibility of including properties like the Elwood school and Indian Brook condos on the map.

The committee deliberated on the suitability of various properties for development, including Windsor, Woodview, Indian Brook Town Homes, and Walcott Valley Apartments. Concerns were voiced about the potential traffic and neighborhood impacts of these developments. The prospect of developing the Hopkinton Country Club was also discussed, though reservations were raised about the loss of open space and the potential community impact. Aspects such as the ownership structure of the country club, declining popularity of golf, and the possibility of the property being sold for housing development were discussed. The committee acknowledged wetlands issues and transportation access while debating the country club’s development potential.

Additionally, the development of the Country Club and the Rod and Gun Club was discussed, with particular attention paid to the environmental impact and the opposition of club members. The Golden Pond Assisted Living property was also a point of discussion, with the committee acknowledging the need for a traffic plan to account for potential impacts of such large developments. There was also debate on the timeline for upcoming meetings and the necessity for legal clarifications from the Town Council.

In addressing non-agenda items, the committee made a note that the proponents for a property on South Street Heyward rezoning were not present, resulting in the tabling of that discussion. Finally, planning for the next meeting was initiated, with members advised to look for a forthcoming email to address points of discussion for future deliberation.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Administrator:
Norman Khumalo
Zoning Board Officials:

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