The meeting opened with a detailed exploration of zoning in the Kate’s Corner neighborhood. The chair introduced an email from the town council clarifying the scope of zoning freezes, which can only be applied to properties with an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan filed. This clarification emphasized that neighboring properties would not be protected against changes, such as setback requirements, unless they filed their own ANR plans. This discussion was particularly relevant for commercial properties potentially being rezoned to residential, prompting property owners to consider filing ANR plans to protect their land use.

Lockheed Martin’s involvement added another layer to the zoning conversation. An email from the company featured a graphic illustrating current and proposed zoning changes, which could impose restrictions on their redevelopment efforts due to setback requirements. A representative from VHB explained that the graphic depicted building setbacks, which define the developable area under various conditions.

Further discussions focused on proposed zoning updates, with the board reviewing slides that suggested zoning as a buffer between industrial and residential areas. While multifamily housing was deemed inappropriate, there was potential for limited residential use through the Special Economic Overlay District (SEO). Updates also included recommendations for accessory parking lots to be within 300 feet of the principal use.

The board’s attention then shifted to manufacturing definitions, a topic of considerable debate. The existing definitions were reviewed, with an emphasis on excluding heavy manufacturing from the zone. Members considered Tewksbury’s recent zoning updates as a model, proposing a new category of ultralight manufacturing. This category would impose restrictions such as limiting facility size and operation hours, primarily targeting businesses exceeding 20,000 square feet which would require a special permit.

Lockheed Martin’s representative emphasized the need for flexible definitions to accommodate both research and development (R&D) and small-scale production activities, cautioning against overly definitions that might hinder their operations. The representative supported flexible operating hours, focusing on minimizing transportation and noise impacts.

The meeting also tackled strategic planning, particularly regarding managing growth. A committee was proposed to oversee the strategic plan’s implementation. There was debate over the necessity of consulting services to review zoning maps and tables, with some arguing that strategic planning should precede zoning adjustments. The board acknowledged the critical role of understanding market conditions before making substantial zoning changes.

Infrastructure challenges, particularly regarding sewer capacity, were identified as potential barriers to growth. The Department of Public Works (DPW) is conducting a study to explore improvements, though any implementation would take years. The board considered the implications of dual tax and sewer rates on residents, highlighting the need for careful planning to avoid financial burdens.

Lastly, the board touched on the regulation of massage therapy, noting that the Board of Health does not license massage therapists but regulates certain practices. There was an intent to align local definitions with state regulations to minimize confusion. Participants expressed concerns about the existing requirement for massage therapists to seek board approval for location changes.