This week, the Economic Development Committee failed to convince the Board of Selectmen to walk back changes to the proposed Downtown District zoning bylaw. Later, an Advisory Committee member predicted that an aspect EDC, BOS and Planning haven’t been discussing will sink the Special Town Meeting Article. Read the full article → from BOS stood by its vote on Downtown zoning; Advisory warns voters wary of multi-family housing
zoning-bylaw
Downtown District zoning: Planning’s changes please opponents but frustrate proponents; Article may be pulled

After months of meetings, forums, and hearings, the Planning Board, Board of Selectmen, and vocal downtown residents and abutters came to apparent consensus on a proposed Downtown District Bylaw to present to Town Meeting voters. Unfortunately, that version is one that doesn’t pass muster with the group that initially spearheaded the initiative. Read the full article → from Downtown District zoning: Planning’s changes please opponents but frustrate proponents; Article may be pulled
Downtown zoning: Suggestions, map issues, economic questions, transparency, and status

This week, the Planning Board reopened hearings on proposed changes to the Downtown District Bylaw. Read the full article → from Downtown zoning: Suggestions, map issues, economic questions, transparency, and status
Special Town Meeting: Date pushed; Downtown District zoning hearings to reopen (with same map)

Last night the Board of Selectmen voted to delay the Special Town Meeting that had been scheduled for October 4th. The date is now tentatively reset to November 1st. Read the full article → from Special Town Meeting: Date pushed; Downtown District zoning hearings to reopen (with same map)
EDC: “Facts and Figures”and an update on Rte 9 Business Corridor District and other initiatives

A report from the EDC this spring includes some interesting data on Southborough land, businesses, and residents. It also included a now outdated update on some initiatives. So, I’m updating on those. Read the full article → from EDC: “Facts and Figures”and an update on Rte 9 Business Corridor District and other initiatives
Town Meeting Update: Proposed zoning process improvements

Two Articles on the Warrant for Saturday’s Annual Town Meeting focus on fixing issues in Town zoning bylaws. Although neither would seem to be controversial, voters can be nervous about zoning changes. So, I’m giving an overview of each. Read the full article → from Town Meeting Update: Proposed zoning process improvements
Town Meeting Update: Outdoor Lighting Bylaw

Voters who haven’t been paying close attention to the Outdoor Lighting Bylaw may have questions or misperceptions. So, it’s (past) time to focus on what it does and doesn’t ask to do. Read the full article → from Town Meeting Update: Outdoor Lighting Bylaw
Downtown Zoning Article tabled to Fall Meeting

This week, selectmen agreed to push off again the Article to revamp zoning for the Downtown District. Rather than tackling it at the Annual Town Meeting, the Board plans to schedule a Special Town Meeting in the fall. Read the full article → from Downtown Zoning Article tabled to Fall Meeting
Downtown District Update: 80% wasn’t real; Split lots being examined; 3-4 story building heights (Updated)

In a hearing on the proposed zoning changes for the Downtown District, the public learned that one controversial detail wasn’t “real”. They also learned steps the Board of Selectmen are taking on another controversial issue. And selectmen learned that some district residents are up in arms over a third issue. Read the full article → from Downtown District Update: 80% wasn’t real; Split lots being examined; 3-4 story building heights (Updated)
Revised Downtown District zoning draft raises concerns – BOS hearing tonight
This morning, the Town posted a revised draft of the Downtown District zoning bylaw to be discussed in tonight’s forum. If adopted as written, developers would be allowed up to 80% “lot coverage” without needing special permit. Read the full article → from Revised Downtown District zoning draft raises concerns – BOS hearing tonight
Selectmen to address concerns on Downtown zoning (including criticized map) – Tuesday
The Board of Selectmen has scheduled another forum on the proposed Downtown District zoning for Tuesday. This one is listed as a public hearing. Unlike their previous forum, the Board’s zoning consultants will be available to answer questions and provide clarity. Read the full article → from Selectmen to address concerns on Downtown zoning (including criticized map) – Tuesday
Downtown District proposed zoning changes: Forum highlights; Hearings open Monday

The Board of Selectmen hosted a public forum on a plan for revitalizing downtown during their meeting last night. Read the full article → from Downtown District proposed zoning changes: Forum highlights; Hearings open Monday
Downtown Initiative update: Selectmen holding forum Feb 16 on proposed zoning changes

At Annual Town Meeting, voters will be asked to adopt zoning changes proposed to revitalize the Downtown area. Here’s an update on the Town’s efforts. Read the full article → from Downtown Initiative update: Selectmen holding forum Feb 16 on proposed zoning changes
Meeting on Downtown “Village Mixed Use Zoning” bylaw – October 6

Next week, multiple Town boards will discuss status and next steps for a proposed Village Mixed Use Zoning (VMUD) bylaw. Read the full article → from Meeting on Downtown “Village Mixed Use Zoning” bylaw – October 6