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.

Townsend Planning Board Grapples with Zoning Challenges for Age-Restricted Housing Development

Overview: During its recent meeting, the Townsend Planning Board deliberated on several issues, with the proposed age-restricted development on Depot Road Extension taking center stage. The meeting, which started at 6:33 p.m. on October 21, 2024, was marked by an in-depth examination of the application submitted by Kevin Smith and Ken Tully, which seeks to construct three residential duplex buildings containing six units. Significant concerns were raised about zoning compliance, particularly in relation to the project’s adherence to the two-acre minimum requirement as stipulated in local bylaws for age-restricted developments.

Townsend Planning Board Discusses Key Projects: 22 Main Street Permit Extension Approved

Overview: The Townsend Planning Board, during its meeting on October 7th, 2024, addressed issues including the approval of a six-month extension for the site plan review special permit on Main Street, the consideration of a new Starbucks at Harbor Village, and discussions surrounding age-restricted housing developments.