The Metrowest Daily News reports that the Planning Board plans to ask Selectmen for a delay on the the warrant article for the revised town zoning bylaws. They are requesting an extension until 2014.
Recently, a special Town Meeting was scheduled for October 7th. The reason for calling the meeting was to vote on the previously delayed zoning bylaw revisions. A second article was added specifically in response to the Planning Board’s article. (Through citizen’s petition, this is an alternative bylaw revision.)
The expedience of a fall meeting allowed the town to add other agenda items: an administrative motion and a financial appropriation. Neither of those items were proposed as reason to call a special town meeting.
This is the third delay for the measure. And just last month, the Planning Board announced that it would drop the Open Space Residential Development zoning initiative that was originally part of the proposed overhaul.
Recently, the Planning Board had reported to other boards that they were on track for the general zoning overhaul. They indicated a draft could be expected by mid-July.
Failing to meet that deadline, they were under pressure from other town boards and committees looking for the final draft and analysis information.
Now, according to MWDN:
[Planning Board Chairman Don] Morris said that many of the final adjustments have been made, but said the final document would greatly benefit from the critical eye of a new town planner.
Member Paul Cimino agreed, saying delaying things would also give residents more time to determine whether they will support the changes.
This is initiative has been steeped in controversy. The Planning Board has faced additional challenges recently with the sudden resignations of the Town Planner this spring and a board member early this summer.
To read the full MWDN report, click here.
