Yarmouth Old King’s Highway Historic District Committee Approves Solar Panels

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Yarmouth Old King’s Highway Historic District Committee, the most discussion centered around the approval of an application for solar panel installation on a property, which had previously been tabled due to concerns over its visual impact on the historic neighborhood.

Yarmouth Conservation Commission Reviews Coastal Projects and Enforcement Issues

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Yarmouth Conservation Commission tackled a variety of environmental issues ranging from the approval of coastal construction projects to the deliberation of enforcement actions for unpermitted work. The meeting’s most newsworthy event was the unanimous approval of a project involving the reconstruction of an existing pier, platform, ramp, and float, with special attention given to land containing shellfish. The commission also commended a community initiative by Girl Scout Troop 62610, which proposed the installation of bat boxes to bolster local conservation efforts. There were discussions about several enforcement cases, including unpermitted vegetation removal and construction violations.

Yarmouth Plans for the Future: Comprehensive Local Development Underway

Overview: The Yarmouth Planning Board meeting on April 3rd, 2024, concentrated on the development of the local comprehensive plan (LCP), a blueprint designed to guide growth, change, and resource protection in Yarmouth. The board, with assistance from BCS group consultants, laid out a multi-year strategy to create a vision for the town that includes a capital facilities plan, a housing plan, and targeted actions informed by community input. The meeting also addressed the progress of Route 28 construction, the importance of public participation in the planning process, and the need for economic diversification beyond tourism.

Yarmouth Board of Health Approves Hazardous Materials Storage

Overview: At the recent Yarmouth Board of Health meeting, one notable issue discussed was the approval of the hazardous materials storage for Greenbird Landscaping, Inc. The company’s proposal included the construction of a commercial building on Corporation Road and the storage of 5,800 pounds of solid materials and 90 gallons of hazardous materials, primarily for use in business operations. The board’s in-depth consideration of the proposal focused on the potential impact on local wastewater and septic systems, as well as the need to balance economic development with public safety.

Yarmouth Zoning Board Upholds Building Commissioner’s Decision

Overview: The Yarmouth Zoning Board of Appeals meeting held on March 28th, 2024, concluded with a unanimous decision to uphold the Building Commissioner’s violation notice, rejecting the request for transient occupancy beyond the standard motel and hotel use duration. This decision came despite the petitioner invoking a state of emergency and a letter from the Governor in their appeal. The meeting also addressed several other petitions, including approvals for a special permit and variances for property modifications, as well as a debate on multiple business operations in a residential area.