A focus of the meeting was the affordable housing situation in Littleton. The board announced that the last affordable unit at Hager Homestead had been sold, prompting the submission of an application to add two more units to the subsidized housing inventory. This move underscores the ongoing demand for affordable housing in the region. The board discussed the process for increasing this inventory and the importance of transparency and community engagement in these efforts. Additionally, members expressed a need to address the infrastructure limitations that could impact future housing projects, particularly concerning sewage systems.

The board also examined the implications of new state mandates regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which are required to be permitted “as of right” by February 2025. This change will remove local zoning bylaws that conflict with state regulations, potentially expanding affordable housing options. However, the board acknowledged infrastructure challenges, particularly sewage capacity, which could limit the development of ADUs in certain areas. The board discussed strategies for updating local bylaws to comply with state mandates while addressing these infrastructure concerns.

Another major topic of discussion was the impact of recent state case law on marijuana cultivation in Littleton. The board recognized the necessity of allowing medical marijuana cultivation, following the Attorney General’s office decision that towns cannot completely restrict certain types of cultivation, including micro-cultivation. The board explored the possibility of putting the issue on a ballot, allowing residents to voice their opinions on marijuana cultivation within the community. The debate included considerations of existing cultivators’ rights and the potential need for zoning bylaw adjustments to align with state requirements.

In addition to regulatory discussions, the board focused on the ongoing Littleton Common revitalization efforts. The roadmap, initially published in 2019, has seen progress, including the completion of sewer infrastructure and the development of form-based code. The board emphasized the importance of refining the economic aspects of the revitalization plan, particularly in light of recent legislative changes and a $66,000 Massachusetts earmark for the town. The board highlighted the need for pedestrian access and traffic flow improvements, stressing the importance of safety for both pedestrians and cyclists.

The board also addressed upcoming updates to the FEMA floodplain bylaw and mapping, necessitated by new flood insurance rate maps. The town plans to draft a new floodplain bylaw to align with FEMA’s model by June, separating the existing floodplain bylaw from the wetlands bylaw for clarity. The discussion included concerns about drainage issues and the potential for flooding due to inadequate drainage systems.

Lastly, the board discussed a proposal from the Metro West Collaborative Development for a housing needs assessment, aimed at identifying the need for affordable housing units in Littleton. The proposed cost for the assessment is approximately $6,000, and the board debated the funding source, considering whether the planning board or the affordable housing trust should cover the costs. There was a consensus on the necessity of the assessment to inform town planning and housing strategies, particularly regarding senior housing development.