A primary focus of the meeting was the discussion surrounding affordable housing fees and their implications for local development projects. The Wayside project, involving 12 new housing units, was subject to an affordable housing fee of approximately $333,000, calculated based on updated 2023 interest rates and Mass Housing income ratios. This fee is intended to support the Natick affordable housing trust fund. The board deliberated on the fee’s approval, ultimately endorsing the proposal to deposit the funds into the trust to aid future housing initiatives.

However, concerns arose regarding the allocation of funds by the Affordable Housing Trust, particularly in relation to pre-construction costs. A speaker highlighted the risks of using trust funds for expenses that do not directly result in housing creation, emphasizing that funds should not be expended prematurely. This sentiment was echoed by others, leading to a consensus that funds must be protected from being allocated to non-returnable pre-construction costs.

The board also debated the financial viability of the Auburn Street project, where the developer argued that reducing housing units would make the project infeasible. This brought attention to the trust’s financial commitments, which were based on projected rather than secured funds. A board member raised concerns about the Zoning Board of Appeals being potentially unaware of these financial uncertainties, stressing the importance of clear communication to avoid misunderstandings.

To address these concerns, a proposal was made to ensure that funds allocated to projects would not be used for pre-construction expenses. The board reached an agreement to attach this stipulation to the approval of funding for certain housing units, contingent on conditions such as obtaining occupancy certificates. A suggestion was made to draft a memo or letter to the ZBA to convey the planning board’s stance on fund allocation and safeguard against premature expenditure.

Another topic was the zoning issue raised during the public speak portion of the meeting. Louis Franchi, president of Natick Crossing Corp, expressed frustration over delays in rezoning efforts for his property on West Central Street. Despite positive feedback from town officials since 2019, Franchi’s attempts to advance the rezoning have been stalled, with no warrant included in the spring 2023 town meeting. He emphasized the urgency of the matter, noting that the property would be vacant by May 1st. The board, constrained by procedural rules, was unable to engage substantively during public speak but expressed willingness to address the matter formally in a future meeting.

Additionally, the board discussed a special permit application for a new sign installation, focusing on lighting and setback compliance. Concerns were raised about the proposed uplight, with some board members questioning its necessity given the existing street lighting. The absence of a fourth board member, required for a supermajority vote, led to the continuation of the discussion to a later date.

Further updates included information from the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) regarding their public hearing and application process for funding, anticipated to open by May. The board also sought a designee for the Natick Affordable Housing Trust, inviting interested parties to submit letters outlining their qualifications.