Newbury Select Board Grapples with Zoning and Property Use Issues

Overview: In a recent Newbury Select Board meeting, significant time was devoted to the discussion of zoning enforcement decisions and property use concerns, particularly focusing on two separate properties on Northern Boulevard and 31 Rail Sling. The board engaged in a debate regarding a notice of appeal filed against the town’s director of inspectional services and the legality of a renovated garage space being used as a second dwelling unit without proper authorization on Northern Boulevard. Additionally, the board scrutinized a proposal for a detached accessory apartment on Rail Sling, raising questions about its proximity to a pool and potential use as a pool house, which could violate town bylaws.

Newbury Planning Board Adopts Stormwater Management Amendments

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board convened remotely, adopting crucial amendments to the site plan and subdivision regulations related to stormwater management, in compliance with the MS4 permit. Additionally, discussions on a common driveway special permit application, a planting plan for a development project, and a substantial increase in withheld funds for landscaping and retaining wall were central topics.

Newbury Historical Commission Debates Roofing Materials for Schoolhouse

Overview: The Newbury Historical Commission recently convened to discuss several issues, with the primary focus being the selection of appropriate roofing materials for the historic schoolhouse. The meeting brought to light the challenges of balancing aesthetics, practicality, and historical integrity in preservation efforts. Other notable topics included potential changes to the demolition delay bylaw, the implementation of dark sky lighting regulations, and the logistics concerning the cleaning and maintenance of the Schoolhouse.

Whittier Regional Technical School Committee Approves Budget Increase, Honors Students

Overview: The Whittier Regional Technical School Committee recently convened to address a variety of matters significant to the ongoing operation and success of the institution. Among the highlights was the approval of an increased budget for the Fiscal Year 2024, the recognition of student achievements including Skills USA medalists, and discussions on improving public engagement and the potential purchase or lease of buses for the school.

Newbury Open Space Committee Explores Public Engagement for Plan Update

Overview: The Newbury Open Space Committee recently held a dynamic meeting to strategize on public engagement and the progression of the town’s open space plan. A key topic included the committee’s submission of an expression of interest to the state’s OneStop grant program, aimed at securing funding to support the update of the open space and recreation plan. Additionally, the meeting addressed the potential hiring of a consultant for the plan update, weighing procurement requirements against in-house capabilities, and the necessity of crafting a careful budget for grant proposals.