07/15/2016

Committee begins review of several technical amendments to town ordinances

The Town Council's ordinance subcommittee has begun reviewing a package of "technical amendments" to several town ordinances.

The review and council adoption are the last steps toward completing the final recommendation of the 2007 comprehensive plan, said Town Manager Michael McGovern.

The proposals would make several amendments to the zoning, subdivision and conservation ordinances, as well as create a new ordinance governing stormwater.

A summary of proposed amendments is available here.

One of the amendments would lower the income requirement for residents to qualify for moderately priced affordable housing. Within the last year, the developer of the Eastman Meadows condominium has twice come to the Town Council for permission to sell moderately affordable units at market price, because qualified buyers tend to not want the restrictions associated with buying a moderately affordable home.

The Planning Board developed and recommended the amendments following 11 workshop meetings and a public hearing held in June.

After review, the ordinance committee will make a recommendation to the full council, which will hold a public hearing before adoption.