Newbury Planning Board Grapples with New ADU Bylaw Amidst State Regulation Changes

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board meeting on December 18, 2024, primarily focused on adapting the town’s accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw to meet new state regulations, highlighting concerns about housing needs, zoning challenges, and community impact. The board also discussed updates on local projects and amendments to existing bylaws to align with state requirements.

Lunenburg Paint Stewardship Program Faces Opposition and Support Amidst Broader Conservation Efforts

Overview: The Lunenburg Conservation Commission meeting on December 18, 2024, via Zoom, addressed several issues, with the Paint Stewardship Program emerging as a key topic. This initiative, designed to manage leftover paint through a small consumer fee, aims to contribute to the state’s zero waste goal by 2030. The program has garnered support from municipalities and the Massachusetts Municipal Association but faces opposition from business groups concerned about potential cost increases.

Lunenburg Parks Commission Considers Fee Adjustments Amid Budget Concerns and Event Planning

Overview: During the recent Lunenburg Parks Commission meeting, discussions highlighted the need for potential fee adjustments for youth sports programs, the planning of a community event involving road closures, and the installation of a Little Free Library to enhance park amenities. The commission tackled these topics alongside routine operational updates, grappling with budget constraints and community engagement strategies.

Southwick Community Preservation Committee Advances Town Hall Renovation, Discusses Pickleball Courts and Grant Agreements

Overview: The Southwick Community Preservation Committee recently convened to address several key agenda items, including the approval of a significant project application for the preservation of the historic Southwick Town Hall. This project, along with discussions regarding new pickleball courts and a grant agreement for the Historical Society, dominated the meeting.

Chatham Conservation Commission Reviews Innovative Sewage System Amidst Compliance Concerns

Overview: During a recent meeting, the Chatham Conservation Commission examined several applications, most notably a proposal for a Title 5 subsurface sewage disposal system on Moon Penny Lane. This proposal, presented on behalf of Francis and Christina Fabbrio, seeks to replace an outdated cesspool under a Board of Health mandate with a system incorporating Innovative Alternative (IA) technology designed to minimize environmental impact within a floodplain area.