Verona Board Examines Redevelopment and Tax Implications

Overview: The Verona Town Planning Board’s recent meeting shed light on developments regarding potential area designations for redevelopment and the tax implications of an affordable housing project. One notable issue discussed was the Redevelopment investigation study for properties located on Bloomfield Avenue and Church Street, which included a detailed assessment of the sites and consideration of the broader impact on the town’s zoning and tax structure.

Garwood Planning Board Advances South Avenue Land Swap

Overview: The Garwood Planning Board’s recent meeting on December 21, 2023, resulted in advancements for two land swap applications presented by Russo Development on behalf of South Avenue Urban Renewal LLC and South Avenue Urban Renewal II LLC. These applications, aimed at reshaping the local urban landscape, were part of a larger discussion on various civic improvements, including the review of a new stormwater ordinance and a development assistance package.

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.