Milton Select Board Faces Criticism Over MBTA Zoning Compliance and Community Engagement
- Meeting Overview:
In a lengthy meeting of the Milton Select Board, a focus was placed on the town’s ongoing challenges with Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) zoning compliance, which sparked debate over zoning classifications and community engagement. The board grappled with the implications of being classified as a rapid transit community and residents’ concerns about the lack of progress in meeting compliance deadlines.
2:15:50The meeting was dominated by discussions regarding the town’s MBTA zoning compliance, a topic that has been contentious due to its potential impact on local zoning regulations and community planning. The board acknowledged that Milton’s classification as a rapid transit community, due to the presence of the trolley system, remains a point of contention. A resident voiced frustration over the planning board’s failure to produce the promised zoning articles following a relevant vote nearly a year ago. This individual accused board members and a group of residents of attempting to rewrite the law to reduce zoning capacity requirements.
0:00One participant, Doug Hine, raised concerns about the town’s strategy in addressing the zoning scheme that could designate Milton as a rapid transit community. Hine emphasized the necessity for the board to realistically prepare for compliance, warning of potential state intervention if the town fails to act. He suggested that developing a compliant plan would safeguard against external control over local zoning decisions.
36:05The meeting also addressed the implications of potential zoning changes, particularly concerning residentially zoned parcels with business uses. The board discussed the ramifications of allowing business activities in residential areas, with a particular focus on the Fruit Center, a large parcel in a residentially zoned area. The conversation underscored the importance of engaging the community in shaping zoning changes and ensuring consistent treatment across neighborhoods.
54:14The East Milton Square public forum was highlighted, with residents encouraged to participate in discussions about the proposed East Milton mixed-use overlay zoning. The board emphasized the need for clear communication of zoning changes to residents, using practical examples to illustrate the potential impact on local development. Concerns were raised about the economic implications of the zoning changes, particularly in unlocking new opportunities for East Milton. The need for a buildout analysis and the potential for tax revenue increases from new developments were discussed, alongside the challenges of balancing new growth with service expenses.
3:05:43Furthermore, the meeting delved into the procedural aspects of approving development projects and permits. A special permit related to a landscaping business owned by Maggie and Josh Oldfield was scrutinized, particularly regarding the ownership transfer conditions and potential conflicts in the language used. The board worked to clarify permit language to avoid future legal issues and ensure consistency in the findings and conditions.
54:14As the meeting progressed, the board reviewed the as-built plan for the Pine Hills Garden development on Pleasant Street. They focused on ensuring that easement language was included in the development plans to prevent future complications for homebuyers. The necessity of maintaining access to private water lines and fire hydrants was emphasized, with discussions about preparing documentation for the homeowners association to assume maintenance responsibilities.
1:27:40Additionally, the board considered the design elements of a new building project, focusing on window uniformity and the inclusion of signage. The participants aimed for a cohesive design respecting community preferences while addressing logistical challenges in construction. The conversation highlighted the importance of involving residents in the decision-making process and ensuring transparency and understanding of zoning requirements.
City Council Officials:
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
02/13/2025
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Recording Published:
02/19/2025
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Duration:
205 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Norfolk County
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Towns:
Milton
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