The meeting’s most crucial discussion revolved around the Housing Production Plan. Ian Burns from the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission presented the plan, which has been in development for two years. The plan aligns with Massachusetts General Law, offering communities incentives to develop low and moderate-income housing. Burns emphasized the importance of the plan for achieving a Safe Harbor designation under Chapter 40B, which would allow the town to deny permits for developments that don’t match local zoning if affordable housing production is underway.

The presentation detailed demographic trends, notably a projected increase in residents aged 65 and over, necessitating changes in housing strategies. Burns highlighted the mismatch between housing unit sizes and resident needs, with several empty nesters occupying larger homes. The ADUs must be deed-restricted to count as affordable housing, a requirement that poses challenges due to its complexity.

Further, the plan proposes exploring an inclusionary zoning bylaw, which would mandate that multifamily developments reserve a certain percentage of units as affordable housing. This strategy, supported by a grant for further study, would resemble practices in other communities. The establishment of an affordable housing trust was also suggested, offering a mechanism to fund housing programs, including down-payment assistance.

The discussion acknowledged the significant cost burden on Newbury residents, with approximately 30% spending more than 30% of their income on housing. This strain affects local economic spending and highlights the need for affordable housing solutions. Concerns were raised about environmental constraints, such as marshlands and limited sewer access, which restrict housing development.

A notable point was the projected population decline in Newbury, expected to nearly halve by 2050. This trend contrasts sharply with growth in Eastern Massachusetts, driven by out-migration, aging residents, and high housing costs. The board discussed the potential of affordable housing to reverse this trend but remained cautious about its effectiveness.

The board unanimously approved forwarding the Housing Production Plan to the state, following its adoption by the planning board. The plan serves as a roadmap for the next five years, with regular public discussions anticipated to reassess and refine strategies.

Beyond housing, the board approved grants, including a $15,500 award for firefighter safety equipment and a $1,225 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Sustainable Materials Recovery Program for recycling initiatives. These grants support ongoing efforts to maintain safety standards and promote sustainability.

The board also reviewed proposed zoning bylaw amendments in preparation for the Spring Town Meeting. Amendments focused on compliance with state and federal regulations, particularly concerning flood hazard bylaws as mandated by FEMA. The necessity of these updates was emphasized to maintain eligibility in the National Flood Insurance Program, with new flood insurance rate maps set to take effect in July.

Additionally, the board discussed future energy options, with National Grid setting a fixed basic service rate and Colonial Power offering three green energy alternatives. Residents will receive information through mailers and educational sessions, with an opt-out default option provided.

The meeting concluded with routine administrative updates, including the impact of a recent earthquake, the Ored Street culvert replacement project, and the need for plow drivers. The board was reminded of a conflict of interest law training requirement and upcoming email upgrades.