One notable issues addressed by the task force was the potential impact of rezoning efforts on the community’s character and infrastructure. The conversation touched on the importance of preserving the town’s unique aesthetic while accommodating the state’s affordable housing mandates. Concerns were raised about the town’s water and wastewater systems’ capacity to handle increased density and the possible effects on the fire and police departments, schools, and traffic. The debate was informed by contrasting estimates of how new housing developments might affect the school population, highlighting the need for a careful and strategic approach to zoning changes.

The task force was also occupied with discussions about the specific properties included in the zoning districts, the allocation of development acres in the Limited Commercial District (LCD) and the downtown area, and the implications for voter opposition. The inclusion of 10 and Summer Street was considered due to their existing development and low likelihood of further development, while properties near the gas station were discussed in the context of potential for future redevelopment, particularly concerning water resource protection districts. The designation of 25 acres for development in the LCD and 30 acres downtown sparked debate over the potential impact on the number of additional units and the task force’s overall plan.

Another topic of considerable importance was the impact of zoning changes on the affordable housing units at Newport Park. It was clarified that rezoning would not adversely affect existing affordable units and could potentially allow for additional units to economically stabilize the property. The task force also addressed the eligibility of the property under UHLC standards, noting that the Mass Housing Authority controls it.

The discussion of building heights in the downtown area revealed concerns about the potential impact of development on sensitive land, especially in relation to Morse Court Elm Street. The task force assured that a height cap would be set in the village area to mitigate concerns. The debate over the Valentine and Summer development constraints map clarified which areas were included in the zoning district and why certain areas, such as the local historic district and the high-density commercial area near the train station, were excluded.

The task force acknowledged the significance of public input, proposing a public forum and a joint meeting with the planning board to further discuss these zoning changes. The potential for public hearings was also mentioned.

The task force explored various parameters, such as setting a cap on the number of units per lot, using square footage limitations, and capping the number of units per building to control density while considering architectural review, setback, and parking requirements. The group emphasized the need for further analysis and a willingness to collaborate on finding the most effective solutions.

The meeting also broached the subject of the 40B appeal process and the timing of zoning changes. The necessity and timing of design guidelines for the LCD were debated, with suggestions to postpone this discussion until after the 40B appeal process. The need for guidance from the planning board on general design preferences for the LCD was highlighted, along with a focus on the appropriate density of units and the incorporation of senior housing.

The task force discussed the incentivization of building in the downtown area, with some members expressing caution about moving forward too quickly because of the status of a 40B appeal. The role of the consultant in providing modeling and guidance was acknowledged, noting budget constraints and the importance of working within the model to avoid additional costs.

Finally, the group discussed the tight timeline for achieving zoning compliance and presenting to the select board before the town meeting in November. There was a motion to adjourn, with an understanding of the urgency to finalize a plan and design guidelines.