Acushnet Planning Board Discusses Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw Amid State Guidelines Uncertainty

The Acushnet Planning Board meeting focused on the draft of the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw, as members discussed how to align local regulations with recently released state guidelines. The board aimed to clarify uncertainties in the draft guidelines issued by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. The state guidelines provided definitions and clarified that only one ADU per property is required by law. However, the board noted that many aspects, such as what constitutes a reasonable regulation, remain unclear.

Town Planner Victoria Alaro informed the board that she attended a state webinar, which underscored the requirement for municipalities to allow only one ADU by right per property. The board considered whether to impose a size limitation for ADUs, with a preference to keep the maximum size under 900 square feet to align with state recommendations. Concerns from other town boards were also discussed, including the Board of Health’s focus on the number of bedrooms, the Town Clerk’s parking limitations, and the Select Board’s emphasis on Title V requirements.

The board agreed that Victoria Alaro would submit comments and questions to the state through an official form before the deadline. The submission will include concerns on size limitations and other aspects to ensure the bylaw is comprehensive and conforms to state requirements.

Additionally, the board announced a survey available on the town website, inviting residents to provide input on the Master Plan update. The survey aims to gather community perspectives on what they value in Acushnet and will inform the work of the newly formed Master Plan Committee.

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:
James Kelley
Planning Board Officials:
Steven Boucher, Richard A. Ellis, Bryan Deschamps, David M. Davignon, Mark Francois, Paul Sullivan (Administrative Assistant)

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