0:28The most pressing topic of discussion was the proposed development on Bernard Street, where questions arose about the adequacy of road access and frontage necessary to move forward with building plans. The applicant, represented by engineer Kevin Silva, sought clarification on the requirements for developing a house on the two-acre lot. The lot has existing frontage along a paper street, but the condition of the road has deteriorated, consisting of a mix of pavement and gravel.

Board members debated whether the existing road met the standards required for adequate access and whether it fulfilled the 150 feet of frontage typically necessary for a building permit. The board contemplated whether improvements to the road would be necessary, or if a variance from the zoning board of appeals could be sought should the existing conditions be deemed inadequate.

The board agreed that the determination of whether the current road conditions meet the necessary standards lies with the town’s zoning enforcement officer. The zoning officer’s opinion would guide the board on whether the current frontage suffices, or if further steps, such as road extensions or legal appeals, would be required.

42:00In addition to the Bernard Street discussion, the board also considered updates to the town’s zoning map. An article had been submitted to reflect changes approved at previous town meetings, including adjustments to the floodplain overlay district and rezoning on Bradford Street. The board anticipated completing the revised zoning map without incurring costs, thanks to support from the National Association of Towns. A public hearing on the updated zoning map is planned for April, with no immediate questions posed by board members regarding the update.

The meeting also covered the removal of the accessory apartment bylaw, a straightforward agenda item. The board reviewed a comprehensive list of references to accessory apartments, all of which are to be struck from the bylaw for transparency in future documentation.

Discussions on the solar bylaw amendment were introduced, with plans to solicit feedback from board members and other departments, particularly the Conservation Commission, before any final decisions. The board recognized the need to fine-tune the solar bylaw.

Another topic involved the implications of paper streets, with the board acknowledging the challenges of managing unconstructed streets. The board recognized that any action to eliminate a paper street would require a comprehensive legal process involving multiple steps. The scarcity of land and recent changes in state law could lead to increased inquiries regarding paper streets, necessitating prepared and clear policies.

The board agreed to compile potential questions regarding paper streets and solar bylaws, seeking guidance from town council to address legal ambiguities. They recognized that while the solar bylaw had been discussed previously, it would benefit from a detailed review based on gathered feedback.