The zoning of Riverneck Road properties sparked debate, particularly concerning the potential reclassification of a parcel from Residential Business (RB) to Protected (P) designation. Members of the Planning Board considered the implications of maintaining the current RB designation, which some believed offered future flexibility for community-oriented uses, such as converting the land into a neighborhood park. An opposing view suggested that a P designation would better protect the land from developments like gravel installations or storage sheds, which could be undesirable to neighbors.

The discussion expanded to include considerations for contiguous zoning, especially regarding two properties along Riverneck Road. The board contemplated the effects of inserting a residential designation between two Commercial Business Light (CB Light) parcels. While some members expressed concerns about disrupting the area’s cohesiveness, others argued for residential development, citing the housing shortage. The potential for single-family homes with accessory dwelling units was discussed, though skepticism remained regarding their feasibility.

The dialogue with landowners revealed varied preferences, with one property owner advocating for a CB Light designation to attract commercial ventures, despite environmental limitations from nearby wetlands. A property owner on Riverneck Road expressed a strong preference for maintaining the Industrial A (IA) zoning, citing its historical use as a distribution center and the non-conforming uses protected under the current classification.

Simultaneously, the Planning Board turned its attention to defining data centers in Chelmsford, categorizing them into small, medium, and large tiers based on electrical consumption and physical size. Small data centers would be limited to 1 megawatt (MW) and under 20,000 square feet, while medium data centers could use up to 5 MW and occupy less than 75,000 square feet, with restrictions on generators and fuel storage. Large data centers, exceeding 5 MW, would not be permitted in Chelmsford.

Concerns were raised about the potential impact of data centers on the town’s commercial aesthetics, with discussions on whether they should be classified as primary or accessory uses. The Planning Board recognized the rapid evolution of technology and expressed a need for clear definitions to guide future developments. The board proposed restricting medium data centers to industrial areas, allowing accessory uses to continue with oversight.

The meeting also addressed public sentiment regarding zoning changes, with residents expressing varied opinions. One resident supported un-zoning the RB area to preserve a wooded space, while another raised concerns about maintaining residential character amidst potential industrial development. The board acknowledged the need for careful zoning transitions to protect property rights while accommodating community growth.

In addition to zoning and data center discussions, the Planning Board reviewed updates from other town committees. The Community Preservation Committee approved funding for senior housing infrastructure and facility renovations for disabled adults. Road improvements on Trump’s Street were also discussed, with anticipated project timelines extending to 2027 or 2028.