The board engaged in an extensive discussion about the proposed construction of a 59,087 square foot cold storage facility on South Washington Street. The project, led by owner Giovani and applicant David Mackwell, aims to serve small food businesses requiring modern refrigerated storage solutions. Mackwell, representing Kelly Engineering Group, detailed the project, emphasizing its compliance with various regulations and its minimal impact on traffic and noise. The facility is designed to include eight cold storage units, each equipped with loading docks, shared parking, and trailer storage spaces.

Board members raised questions regarding the facility’s operations, traffic implications, and energy use. Mackwell clarified that the site would not have permanent employees, but tenants would typically have three to four truck drivers and a few office workers, operating primarily during early morning hours to avoid traffic. The facility’s energy needs would be met using electric heat pumps, with no reliance on natural gas or backup generators, as refrigeration units could maintain temperature without power for limited periods.

The discussion also addressed landscaping and light pollution, particularly concerns about truck headlights disturbing nearby residential properties. Mackwell proposed planting shrubs to obscure headlights from adjacent areas, including a nearby hotel. The board expressed general support for the concept, recognizing the growing demand for cold storage solutions catering to small food businesses. However, they emphasized the importance of completing ongoing peer reviews before proceeding with approval.

In another significant agenda item, the board held a joint session with the Historic District Commission (HDC) to address concerns about the overlap of the Village Center Core (VCC) zoning district with the historic district. The HDC co-chairs highlighted the challenges posed by conflicting requirements between the two districts, which they argued could undermine the historic district’s character. They requested either removal from the VCC or modifications to align with the historic district’s preservation goals, emphasizing the need for clear standards to guide development.

The board acknowledged the importance of involving the HDC early in the planning process and discussed the possibility of granting the commission full authority over the historic district. Members suggested mapping the properties involved in the overlap and creating a distinct historic district zone with specific requirements. They also recognized the need for better communication and coordination between the planning board and the HDC, as the current lack of notification about permits hinders the commission’s ability to oversee developments impacting the historic district.

The meeting further delved into the zoning bylaw recodification process, with members discussing changes related to non-conforming uses and structures. The board considered increasing the expansion limit for non-conforming single-family uses from 25% to 100%, acknowledging the challenges homeowners face under current constraints. They also proposed clarifying processes for variances and special permits.

A notable change involved extending the timeline for reconstruction following a catastrophe from one year to two, accommodating the challenges homeowners encounter after disasters. The board emphasized the importance of consulting the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) on these changes, given their frequent involvement in non-conforming use issues.