Town Administrator Cody Haddad outlined the state’s requirements, which mandate towns with MBTA stations establish zoning districts allowing 15 units per acre within a half-mile radius. He clarified that these changes are necessary to maintain funding opportunities for the town. The proposal includes creating an overlay district that permits multifamily housing without special permits, although site plan reviews would remain necessary.

Public opposition was led by Mr. Donley, who criticized the state’s imposition of mandates and expressed skepticism about the parking regulations. He questioned language in the proposal that could potentially allow parking garages, arguing this might increase residential units beyond the intended scope. In response, Haddad clarified that the proposal does not permit multi-story parking garages and only allows solar panels above parking spaces.

Concerns were also raised about the mixed-use development aspect, with Donley questioning the feasibility of relying on commercial spaces to support residential units. He expressed fears that these changes might harm local businesses and overburden schools with new residents. Haddad acknowledged revenue challenges facing the town, suggesting mixed-use developments could offer financial benefits, but Donley remained unconvinced without a clear understanding of the commercial components’ viability.

Residents expressed worries about the long-term effects of increased density and mixed-use developments, emphasizing the potential impact on Halifax’s infrastructure, such as water usage and educational capacity.

The public comments section saw further resistance to the proposed housing initiatives and zoning changes. One resident called for transparency regarding potential tax increases, citing a substantial existing debt in the schools. The resident urged honesty in communicating the financial implications of the developments, including a possible need for increased school funding.

Another concern was the focus on market-rate rental housing, contrasting earlier expectations of affordable housing requirements. The removal of a prior 10% affordability requirement raised accessibility concerns for lower-income residents. A representative from Cranland Airport added that the proposed development’s proximity to the airport could conflict with aviation regulations, stressing the need for consideration of existing structures’ height and reflective surfaces.

The meeting also highlighted procedural concerns. Tom Pratt, a member of the Board of Selectmen, voiced his intention to vote against the zoning law at the town meeting. He urged the planning board to consider the broader implications, noting that while the Selectmen are required to present the law, they are not obligated to recommend it.

Deborah Pasali and Karen Favis, local residents, expressed strong opposition to the changes, citing sustainability and safety concerns. Pasali recounted dangerous overcrowding incidents near the state boat ramp, while Favis pointed out that neighboring towns had successfully resisted similar zoning changes. Both emphasized the potential disruption to Halifax’s character and resources.

The procedural fairness of the town meeting vote was questioned, with concerns about limited hours potentially disenfranchising residents. A clarification was provided that Massachusetts General Law requires zoning changes to be voted on at town meetings, with state deadlines dictating the timing.

The meeting concluded with a vote on the proposed zoning bylaw, resulting in a unanimous decision against the recommendation. The board also addressed other agenda items, including a site plan review application and a proposed code of conduct. Discussions on the code of conduct revealed concerns about its potential to stifle free speech and the necessity of additional regulations given existing ethical standards.