Central to the meeting was a discussion led by Woody Knight, chair of the planning board, on proposed amendments to the town’s zoning bylaw. The amendments aim to align with recent legal requirements, including those from FEMA, the EPA, and the Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act. These changes are part of a broader recodification process to update outdated terms and streamline processes. The bylaw updates also address accessory apartments, flood hazard sections, and site plan reviews.

The board examined eight articles under consideration, with particular attention to three articles driven by external requirements. One significant amendment involves adopting updated FEMA flood maps for the Merrimack Valley, crucial for maintaining eligibility in the National Flood Insurance Program. The planning board also proposed modifications to comply with EPA stormwater management regulations and adjustments to adhere to the Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act regarding accessory apartments.

The discourse on zoning bylaws also touched on special permits and open space residential development (OSRD). The changes in OSRD language, prompted by a recent court decision, now offer applicants the option to propose OSRD for subdivisions of three or more units. Further, the board considered administrative changes to marijuana establishment regulations to align with state laws, as well as updates to customary home occupations and accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

Financial discussions were equally prominent, with the board expressing concerns over budget planning and potential cuts. The board emphasized the need for an alternative budget plan to address potential funding shortfalls that could lead to significant service reductions. A crucial point was the potential for budget adjustments from Triton, which may necessitate layoffs if funding proposals are rejected.

The board also explored the management of special revenue funds, particularly the PEG (Public, Educational, and Government) access funds. There was disappointment expressed over the funds’ underutilization since 2011, with suggestions for legislative changes to support community programming. The financial implications of relying on one-time funding sources for the operating budget were debated, highlighting the risk of creating a fiscal gap in subsequent years.

Another focal point was Article 29, which proposed a general bylaw for short-term rentals akin to Airbnb. This bylaw presents an opportunity to introduce a local tax on short-term rentals, potentially generating significant revenue without imposing burdens on homeowners. The board recognized the growth in rental properties, particularly on Plum Island, transforming them into lucrative ventures. Safety inspections for these rentals were proposed as part of the bylaw.

The meeting also addressed Articles 19 and 20, concerning veterans’ benefits, which are expected to have a minor financial impact thanks to increased reimbursements due to member training. Discussion of Article 16 highlighted the need to repeal a conflicting bylaw from 2009 to streamline procurement procedures.