The renewal of the special permit for the Hillside Nursery emerged as an issue during the meeting, with discussions highlighting the historical tension between the nursery’s commercial activities and the residential neighborhood. The nursery, which has been operational for nearly 60 years, sought a new special permit after the previous one expired in September 2024. The permit’s expiration prompted scrutiny from local residents, represented by Attorney Matthew Dunn, who emphasized the need for a rigorous review rather than relying on past approvals. Dunn underscored the importance of updated verification for drainage and sound mitigation measures, arguing that previous permits’ conditions were not being met adequately.

Residents living near the nursery shared their grievances, citing issues such as inadequate drainage, lighting, and noise that continued to affect their quality of life. One resident expressed frustration with the enforcement process, recounting experiences with the zoning board of appeals that were financially and emotionally burdensome. Concerns were also raised about the nursery’s compliance with specific permit conditions, particularly the lack of promised landscaping buffers and the ongoing impact of nursery operations on neighboring properties.

The board considered the implications of these complaints, with some members acknowledging the necessity of a review to ensure compliance with the original special permit. The board agreed to continue the public hearing on the nursery’s special permit to allow for further review and community input, with the next session scheduled for January 23rd.

In addition to the nursery permit discussions, the meeting delved into the complexities surrounding accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The board examined proposed zoning amendments, which included debates over definitions, size requirements, and parking regulations for ADUs. Concerns were expressed about the potential impact of these amendments on neighborhood aesthetics and functionality, with discussions emphasizing the need for clear definitions to guide development while maintaining the town’s character.

A contentious point in the ADU discussion involved parking regulations, as the town of Milton does not allow overnight parking on public ways. This raised concerns about the feasibility of ADUs without adequate parking, as many residents rely heavily on personal vehicles rather than public transportation. The board recognized the importance of balancing the demand for additional housing units with the realities of parking constraints and neighborhood density.

The board also contemplated the possibility of amending existing language to accommodate historic structures within the ADU framework. This included discussions on allowing variances for properties deemed historic, with the aim of preserving their character while enabling their use as ADUs. However, skepticism remained about the frequency and practicality of such situations, with most cases likely involving non-historic structures.