One notable discussions centered around the planning board’s concerns regarding a new review board established by the select board to evaluate town zoning bylaws. The planning board member voiced worries that this initiative might be redundant, as the planning board is already engaged in improving and adjusting bylaws. The member expressed that the formation of another board could create confusion and redundancy, particularly since the planning board already has the mandate to handle zoning matters.

The member mentioned a letter received requesting participation in this new review board and found it problematic due to the potential for conflicting opinions and efforts between the two boards. The member questioned the select board’s rationale for forming this new board and whether they fully understood the planning board’s responsibilities. The planning board typically receives requests from the select board to investigate potential amendments, conducts public hearings, analyzes matters, and provides recommendations back to the select board. Any changes must ultimately go through the planning board, emphasizing the importance of a streamlined process.

The conversation highlighted concerns that the select board’s intent to gather diverse opinions could be misguided. The planning board already fulfills that role through established processes, and uncoordinated efforts between the two boards could lead to legal issues or unforeseen complications, as noted by members who recounted past experiences with town meetings. Suggestions were made for the new review board to await the planning board’s ongoing review of the bylaws before pursuing further modifications. The planning board is currently utilizing grant funding to support its bylaw work.

In relation to the grant funding, a $50,000 grant intended for reviewing zoning regulations was discussed. This grant involves community engagement and input. The process by which any proposed modifications would need to be presented, reviewed, and ultimately decided upon was reiterated, establishing a clear course of action for zoning amendments in the town.

The board also addressed the need to revise current zoning bylaws, particularly a stipulation that anything not explicitly included is prohibited. This approach was seen as unreasonable by a member who cited examples like food trucks, prompting a consensus on the necessity to revise the bylaw’s wording. The board discussed communicating with the select board to prevent unnecessary duplication of efforts and considered how to approach them without overstepping bounds. Several members agreed that the new committee was not required and that collaboration with the select board could be more productive.

The meeting further included a presentation of new rules and regulations drafted to assist the board, including a fee schedule intended to address previous issues with application fees. Current fees were deemed insufficient, and there was an intent to analyze fees charged by neighboring towns to make necessary adjustments. The rising costs of the application process were noted.

Specific fees for various planning board applications, such as ANR (Approval Not Required), special permits, and site plan approvals, were discussed. A proposal was made to ensure that board decisions included findings to clarify their basis, especially for complex projects. The idea was to create a checklist for findings that would accompany site plans and special permits. The potential for using planning staff recommendations to guide board decisions was also discussed for larger projects.

In addition to these topics, the board considered ongoing development projects, notably a subdivision under review for extensions. The board discussed logistics for fire department access during various phases of development, emphasizing the need for a clear plan for approval. The conversation also touched on the reorganization of board positions, with motions passed to fill roles including chair, vice chair, treasurer, secretary, and a representative for the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.