Amherst Planning Board Advances Mixed-Use Overlay District Proposal

Overview: In an effort towards shaping the future of downtown Amherst, the Planning Board has recommended a mixed-use overlay district to the Town Council. The proposal, which includes changes to parking regulations, seeks to balance the demand for housing with the need for vibrant commercial spaces. The meeting, which did not see any public comments during the opening period, also addressed the implementation of a new restroom facility at Kendrick Park and the ongoing update of the town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan.

Newbury Planning Board Faces Key Project Delays and Departures

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board meeting addressed significant project extensions and expressed farewells to two pivotal figures — the Planning Director and a long-standing board member. The discussions revolved around extension requests for two major projects on Main Street and the Newburyport Turnpike, as well as the departure of the Planning Director and the recognition of a board member’s contributions.

Southampton Planning Board Endorses ANR Plans, Re-Elects Chair

Overview: The Southampton Planning Board meeting on June 26th addressed a series of key items, including the endorsement of two Approval Not Required (ANR) submissions, the election of board officers, and discussions on electronic submission policies and upcoming public hearings. The board endorsed an ANR submission by Jane Rothchild for property adjustments on Cold Spring Road and approved another ANR related to an agricultural easement submitted by Edward Hamill on Glendale Road. Furthermore, the meeting saw Paul Damon re-elected as chair and discussions about the necessity of adhering to timely electronic submission policies for board materials.

Chelmsford Planning Board Grapples with Affordable Housing Delays and Outdoor Lighting

Overview: At the recent Chelmsford Planning Board meeting, the two most topics were the significant delays in affordable housing projects and the proposal for a new outdoor lighting bylaw. The discussion revealed the complexities of developing new housing initiatives and the challenges posed by evolving lighting technologies on community standards.

Sparta Planning Board Addresses Complex Pine Cone Plaza Renovation

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Sparta Planning Board tackled a comprehensive redevelopment plan for Pine Cone Plaza, focusing on amended site plans, variances, and a series of improvement proposals that sparked discussion among the board members. The primary application of the evening was the 24-714 JB JVP Ventures LLC, which included a detailed presentation of the revamped site encompassing the building, parking areas, landscaping, and engineering and drainage improvements. Variances requested for parking, impervious coverage, and signage, as well as the introduction of environmental considerations like LED lighting and electric vehicle charging stations, were at the forefront of the deliberations.