Hamilton and Wenham Tackling MBTA Zoning Compliance in Joint Planning Boards

In a recent virtual meeting held by the Joint Hamilton and Wenham Planning Boards on August 21, 2024, board members and town residents engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the proposed zoning changes to meet the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) zoning compliance requirements. This compliance effort is driven by the need to adapt local bylaws to the requirements of Section 3A, designed to increase housing density near transit stations.

Key Points from the Meeting:

• Zoning Compliance Effort:
  • The boards have been working for over a year, alongside consultants, to draft a compliance proposal that meets the new state guidelines without significantly disrupting the town's character.
  • Proposed zoning changes include the establishment of two new Multi-Family Overlay Districts locating near transit and highway areas.
  • Wenham's proposal focuses on two districts: a 6.3-acre zone near the train station and another in a more remote area.
• **Public and Legislative Process: **
  • A public hearing to discuss and refine the zoning amendments is slated for September 26, 2024, allowing further community input.
  • The final decision will be posed to Wenham voters at a special town meeting scheduled for November 16, 2024.
• Hamilton and State Relations:
  • Hamilton’s strategy diverges slightly with the town exploring a form-based code for its downtown to align with Section 3A while filing an amicus brief in ongoing litigation.
  • The state has noted they will withhold certain grants from non-compliant municipalities, adding pressure to the local boards.
• Community Concerns:
  • Concerns centered on the implications for local infrastructure, schools, and the character of the towns were voiced by both citizens and board members.
  • Despite compliance being set as a priority, the notion of "unlimited development" raised concerns regarding resources like water and public services.
• Education and Outreach:
  • The Planning Boards of both towns emphasized transparency and community engagement, hosting public forums to inform citizens and encourage discourse.

This collaborative effort between Hamilton and Wenham highlights the complexities small towns face in balancing state mandates with local needs, encouraging community involvement to navigate these pivotal changes.

This is an AI summary generated from this YouTube video. There may be inaccuracies.