A major focus of the meeting was the examination of the town’s zoning classifications and lot sizes, which revealed a unique challenge faced by Swampscott. The board scrutinized an interactive map of zoning districts, noting that while larger lots over 80,000 square feet visually dominated the map, many parcels actually fell below the 10,000 square foot minimum requirement. This discrepancy highlighted the prevalence of non-conforming lots throughout the town, with estimates suggesting that 57% of parcels did not meet the current minimum size standards. This prompted a deeper discussion on whether adjustments to these requirements were necessary or if the aim was to stimulate conversation about the existing zoning laws’ implications.

The exploration of municipally owned land, including open spaces and municipal buildings, further underscored the limited availability of land for new development. The board acknowledged that a portion of Swampscott’s land consists of public properties like schools and conservation areas, leaving scarce opportunities for private development. A suggestion was made to evaluate how much of this land, particularly near the beach, might be underwater due to property lines extending to low tide marks. The board expressed interest in understanding the true extent of undeveloped land, speculating that very little remained available for new construction due to the town’s high development levels and conservation restrictions.

Another topic of discussion involved the town’s approach to multifamily housing development. The board considered the implications of pursuing such projects, given the limited land availability and the need for strategic zoning decisions to prevent unwanted developments. The town’s posture on safe harbor status was debated, with an emphasis on proactive zoning to avert hostile projects, such as those under Chapter 40B. The state Department of Housing and Community Development’s updated housing requirement calculations added urgency to these considerations, necessitating accurate data on land use.

The conversation also touched on potential zoning bylaw updates, particularly concerning flood zones and the need for clarity in regulations. Board members emphasized the importance of having current data to make informed decisions, noting discrepancies in available information. The potential for utilizing GIS mapping tools was discussed, with participants recognizing the value of interactive maps in understanding zoning dynamics and property classifications.

In addition to zoning challenges, the meeting addressed the proposed accessory dwelling unit (ADU) project on Manson Street. Board members scrutinized various aspects, including drainage concerns due to the expansion of impervious surfaces like the new driveway, and compliance with dark sky lighting standards. The design of the ADU and its integration with the main house were examined, highlighting the need for accurate construction drawings and consideration of safety measures, such as smoke alarms and access.

The board ultimately approved the site plan special permit for the ADU construction, with assurances that the decision would be communicated promptly.

Concerns were expressed about the town’s ability to support large-scale projects, given the reliance on high apartment counts for viability. This led to discussions about the role of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council and the potential for grant assistance to navigate the complexities of such developments.