Chatham Zoning Board Faces Community Concerns Over Large-Scale Affordable Housing Project

Overview: The Chatham Zoning Board meeting was dominated by an extensive discussion of a proposed affordable housing project at 0 and Main Street, which has sparked significant concern among local residents. The proposed development, set to include 48 dwelling units in nine structures under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40B, drew considerable public attention due to its scale, height, and potential impact on the town’s character. The project aims to contribute to affordable housing, with 25% of the apartments deed-restricted at 80% of the area median income, yet faces opposition due to its deviation from local zoning norms.

Hillsborough Planning Board Faces Resident Opposition to Proposed Warehouse Over Traffic, Pollution, and Flooding Concerns.

Overview: The Hillsborough Planning Board meeting was dominated by discussions surrounding a proposed warehouse development on Homestead Road, with residents expressing concerns about potential impacts on traffic, pollution, and flooding. The hearing, which has been a point of contention for some time, saw robust opposition from the community, with many arguing that the facility would disrupt the residential character of the area and pose substantial risks to public health and safety.

Chelmsford Zoning Board Invokes Safe Harbor to Deny Housing Project Application

Overview: During the recent Chelmsford Zoning Board meeting, the board unanimously decided to invoke “safe harbor” status, effectively denying a comprehensive permit application for a 14-unit apartment project proposed by Crosby Village LLC. This decision stemmed from the town’s achievement of a 10% threshold in its subsidized housing inventory, allowing the board to reject new developments without the risk of developer appeals. The board also approved a special permit for a residential addition on Bill Ricker Road, while discussing accessory dwelling units and long-term wastewater solutions.

Howell Planning Board Reviews Subdivision Amid Height and Buffer Variances Debate

Overview: The Howell Planning Board meeting on May 8, 2025, was dominated by discussions on a significant subdivision application involving the subdivision of a one-acre lot into two half-acre lots, requiring variances for building height and buffer zones. The board also reviewed a proposed residential development with 280 units, including affordable housing, as well as various design and compliance issues.

Maynard Select Board Approves Water Filter Rebate Program Amid Budget Discussions

Overview: During the Maynard Select Board meeting, members approved a water filter rebate program designed to address ongoing water quality concerns affecting approximately 600 households in the town. The program, which offers rebates of $500 for point-of-use systems and $2,000 for point-of-entry systems, aims to assist residents dealing with water discoloration and related issues. The decision to launch the program on June 2 follows several complaints regarding water quality, with over 558 logged since January, notably from the Digital Way apartments. With clarity and transparency as priorities, the board emphasized the importance of sharing information with the public as the program progresses.