The Planning Board’s debate on affordable housing highlighted the challenges of integrating affordable units into single-family homes and the differing opinions on the effectiveness of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in addressing the affordability crisis. Concerns were raised about homeowners’ ability to meet state-defined affordability criteria due to the costs involved. The regulation of short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, was also scrutinized, with discussions on legal implications and fair housing laws. Members expressed varying viewpoints on the proposed legislation related to ADUs and its potential impact on housing regulations, with some skepticism regarding ADUs as a viable affordable housing solution.

Another focal point was the state’s mandate requiring the town to allow multifamily housing in the MBTA district. This mandate, which includes a specification for up to 15 units per acre, sparked debate over its interpretation and its effect on the rural character of Townsend. The board deliberated on the types of housing that should be included under the mandate, the potential for mixed-use development, and the impact on commercial spaces.

Zoning regulations for multifamily housing were also a notable topic, with board members discussing whether a special permit should be required. The selection of three parcels for future development was evaluated, considering implications for the town’s growth and environmental factors such as aquifer protection. Parking requirements for dwelling units and the specific language in the zoning bylaw were scrutinized for clarity and alignment with town regulations.

The board spent time on the proposed dimensional regulations for housing, debating the necessity of different rules for multifamily versus single/two-family houses. Setbacks, lot sizes, and septic system requirements were all on the table, with the overarching goal of accommodating the MBTA law while preserving the town’s goals and infrastructure capacity.

Tiny homes, lot sizes, and septic systems were also on the agenda, with members voicing concerns about potential state-imposed mandates on septic systems and water supply. The need for zoning regulations and proper lot sizes to comply with the minimum requirements for the town was discussed, as was the board’s role in defining permitted land uses and reviewing dimensional requirements for multifamily buildings.

The minimum lot frontage for multifamily housing was another area of contention, with differing opinions on what dimensions would be suitable for such developments. Design principles for building on small lots, setback requirements, and the number of dwelling units per structure were debated, highlighting the challenge of reconciling zoning requirements with practical construction considerations.

Parking requirements for apartments and multifamily dwellings rounded out the discussion, with the board considering looser standards to encourage development. Exterior lighting standards and the site plan review process were also deliberated, proposing a shift from a special permit to a regular site plan approval section.