Townsend Planning Board Grapples with Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations and Parking Challenges

Overview: The Townsend Planning Board meeting on December 23, 2024, focused on revising and refining the town’s bylaws related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs), with a keen emphasis on parking regulations, language consistency, and procedural clarity. The meeting, chaired by Laura Shifrin, saw active participation from board members as they navigated through complex regulatory frameworks to align local bylaws with state statutes.

Townsend Planning Board Examines Setback Relief and Bond Policy Amidst Development Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Townsend Planning Board deliberated on issues surrounding a proposed development at One Depot Street, with discussions focused on granting relief from setback requirements and the potential implementation of a bond policy for maintenance of stormwater systems.

Townsend Planning Board Considers Streamlined Approval for Accessory Dwelling Units

Overview: The Townsend Planning Board, during its November 25, 2024 meeting, focused on potential bylaw changes to simplify the approval process for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and discussed amendments related to affordable housing policies. The board aimed to align local regulations with state requirements ahead of a February 1 deadline and considered adjustments to zoning bylaws that could impact housing affordability and development.

Townsend Planning Board Approves Redevelopment Project Amid Scheduling Challenges

Overview: The Townsend Planning Board convened on November 18, 2024, tackling a series of significant agenda items, including the approval of a major redevelopment project for Harbor Village Mall, navigating procedural complexities regarding member voting, and addressing ongoing floodplain district bylaw amendments. The board also discussed adjustments to public hearing scheduling to enhance efficiency.

Townsend Planning Board Debates Starbucks Drive-Thru Proposal and Approves UPS Store Plan

Overview: The Townsend Planning Board meeting on November 4, 2024, prominently featured discussions on a proposed Starbucks drive-thru on Main Street and the approval of a UPS store on Main Street. Both projects sparked debate over their impact on traffic, community accessibility, and local economic growth.