Hamilton Planning Board Addresses Stormwater Regulations and Town Code Enhancements
On September 10th, 2024, the Hamilton Planning Board convened to discuss and deliberate on several significant items aimed at enhancing regulations and ensuring the town's infrastructure and code meet future demands. Among these were the passing of the new stormwater management bylaw regulations and updates on the form-based code for the town center.
- Stormwater Management Regulations Approved: The board conducted a public hearing to discuss amendments to the stormwater management regulations. These changes aim to better align with the town bylaw approved in November 2023, ensuring environmental sustainability and infrastructure resilience in future town developments. Key amendments involve preliminary evaluations to determine the necessity of full applications, with an added focus on steep slopes in the ordinance.
- Public Insights and Expert Contributions: Attorney Alex Weser from KP Law, alongside board member Pat Norton, presented final revisions to the new regulations, incorporating feedback from previous meetings. The board voted unanimously to approve the amendments, setting a crucial precedent for responsible town planning.
- Progress on Form-Based Code: Jonathan Por provided updates on the form-based code project intended for Hamilton’s town center. This code seeks to maintain the aesthetic and structural history of Bay Road, incorporating insights from public workshops and surveys that aim to harmonize developments like the Winthrop School 3A area with historical town elements.
- Community Involvement Encouraged: A significant town meeting scheduled for September 30th was announced. Here, residents will have the opportunity to engage with planners and provide further input on the draft framework.
- Awaiting Judicial Guidance on Zoning Laws: Discussions in the meeting highlighted ongoing anticipation of regulatory clarity from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court on existing 3A zoning laws. Hearing scheduled for October 7th is set to clarify aspects of these laws, potentially impacting future zoning and development strategies.
The board is committed to utilizing community input and expert consultations to forge a path that balances modern development needs with Hamilton's historical character.
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