Yarmouth Board Denies Accessory Apartment, Grants Plant Sale Variance

Overview: In a series of discussions that underscore the complexities of zoning regulations, the Yarmouth Zoning Board denied a special permit for the creation of an accessory apartment, citing non-compliance with bylaws and safety concerns, while granting a temporary use special permit for the seasonal sale of plants. The board’s decisions reflect the ongoing balancing act between development aspirations and adherence to local zoning codes.

Acushnet Conservation Commission Considers Holding Conservation Restriction

Overview: The Acushnet Conservation Commission, in its recent meeting, discussed a significant proposal from the Buzzards Bay Coalition (BBC) regarding a conservation partnership for a property located on South Main Street. The BBC intends to purchase the property and transform it into a conservation area, which would be accompanied by the removal of existing structures on the site. The Commission supports the initiative and plans to recommend that the Board of Selectmen agree to hold the conservation restriction. This partnership is contingent on acquiring a grant from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), which mandates that the conservation restriction be held by a municipality or a partner.

Amherst Planning Board Advances Mixed-Use Overlay District Proposal

Overview: In an effort towards shaping the future of downtown Amherst, the Planning Board has recommended a mixed-use overlay district to the Town Council. The proposal, which includes changes to parking regulations, seeks to balance the demand for housing with the need for vibrant commercial spaces. The meeting, which did not see any public comments during the opening period, also addressed the implementation of a new restroom facility at Kendrick Park and the ongoing update of the town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan.

Southampton Planning Board Endorses ANR Plans, Re-Elects Chair

Overview: The Southampton Planning Board meeting on June 26th addressed a series of key items, including the endorsement of two Approval Not Required (ANR) submissions, the election of board officers, and discussions on electronic submission policies and upcoming public hearings. The board endorsed an ANR submission by Jane Rothchild for property adjustments on Cold Spring Road and approved another ANR related to an agricultural easement submitted by Edward Hamill on Glendale Road. Furthermore, the meeting saw Paul Damon re-elected as chair and discussions about the necessity of adhering to timely electronic submission policies for board materials.

Easthampton Council Adopts Specialized Energy Code Amid Community Concerns

Overview: The Easthampton City Council recently convened to discuss a range of topics, with the adoption of a specialized energy code being a primary focus. This code is designed to regulate building design and construction for better energy use and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Slated to go into effect from January 1, 2025, the new regulations will specifically target new residential and commercial structures, including pre-wiring for electrification, solar installation requirements, and adherence to passive house standards for certain types of buildings.