A major focus was the proposal for a new downtown zoning district, which seeks to establish distinct regulations for an area encompassing Central, Beach, Summer, and Elm Streets. This initiative stems from previous visioning sessions and aims to craft rules better suited to a traditional downtown area, which currently makes up about 20% of the general district. The proposed district seeks to maintain the core commercial area without extending its boundaries. A map was presented illustrating the boundaries, prompting queries about specific properties, such as 10 to 12 Beach Street, which were excluded due to their classification as part of a mixed-use property. This exclusion led to a discussion about whether to include such properties to foster a vibrant downtown.

The new downtown district would serve as an underlying district, separate from the general district and the MBTA overlay district. The board explored the importance of a clear zoning framework to avoid development complications.

Key features of the proposed downtown district include allowances for increased density and reduced setbacks to promote a vibrant village atmosphere. However, the treatment of single-family homes remains contentious. Existing single-family dwellings would continue as non-conforming uses, but the board debated whether new single-family homes should be permitted, with some members fearing this could undermine commercial development efforts. The board discussed requiring special permits for single-family homes, emphasizing a need for flexibility to maintain the downtown’s character.

The discussion also covered residential use as an accessory to commercial properties, with members expressing caution about permitting single-family homes in predominantly commercial areas. The board underscored the necessity for context when evaluating such applications, relying on performance standards to assess compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods. The potential for residential conversions of commercial spaces was debated, particularly the implications for maintaining commercial vibrancy and preserving historic structures.

Height restrictions in the downtown district emerged as a topic, with differing opinions on whether to increase the current two-and-a-half-story limit. Some members argued that taller buildings could block light and disrupt the residential environment, while others noted that tiered designs might be more acceptable. Community feedback was considered essential, especially given previous resistance to similar developments in nearby areas.

Parking requirements tied to building height were also examined, with proposals for structured parking drawing criticism for detracting from the area’s character. There was a consensus that any height changes should not compromise community preferences or existing neighborhood dynamics.

In addition to zoning and height discussions, the board addressed driveway regulation modifications. Changes included removing specific stipulations from the bylaw and considering a shift to an online application system. The board agreed to eliminate the fixed application fee, allowing for flexibility in determining fees.

Lastly, the board considered the need for senior housing, recognizing it as a high-priority issue. Previous procedural hurdles have delayed its inclusion in town meetings, but there was agreement on the importance of moving forward. Discussions focused on appropriate locations for senior housing, potential traffic implications, and age restrictions for residents, with suggestions for further review of the language before proceeding.