Planning Board meeting
Town of Princeton, Mass.-- PLANNING BOARD meeting w/ remote participation
Public Hearing & Meeting Minutes --– February 17, 2021 7:30 PM
Present online were: Planning Board members John Mirick, chair; Tom Sullivan, Rud Mason, Ann Neuburg; Ian Catlow and alternate members Corey Burnham-Howard and Lisa Drexhage. No one was absent.
7:38 PM Chair John M. opened the meeting and read the “red-lined” (updated) versions of three zoning articles proposed for the May ATM.
The first would add a sentence to Sect. VII, 1. to allow only one principal use or building on any lot
Board voted to submit the amendment as written for the May 2021 ATM warrant. In roll call, four voted ‘yes’ and Rud M. voted ‘no.’
Currently, Zoning Sect. VI, 1 (B) exempts municipal uses or services from zoning requirements if the minimum size of the lot is five acres. The proposed amendment would change the five acre limit to two acres.
Board voted all in favor by roll call to submit the amendment as written for the May 2021 ATM warrant.
There was discussion on a proposed clarification of non-conforming uses and structures as listed in Bylaws Section VII 2. John explained that Sect. VII, 2. will state the intent of this provision: it identifies the building inspector is making a ‘finding’ when construction or alterations conform to current zoning and should therefore only require a building permit. Otherwise, changes may require a variance or special permit for a building permit to be issued. New wording in this section is intended to agree with and reinforce the state statute, as Corey explained, as well as how the decision of “more detrimental to the neighborhood” is made and to make clear where remedies (to zoning) would be found. Corey also noted the 35’ height limit should be included.
Board voted all in favor by roll call to submit the amendment as edited.
8:30 PM Group voted to approve the minutes of January 13, 2021
Group discussed upcoming Citizens Caucus and the P.B. seat to be open as Tom S. is not seeking another term. John M. noted that alternate members Corey and Lisa may be interested and may wish to attend the Caucus. Then, Rud M. offered to step down if both alternate members wished to step up and fill two seats on the board.
Ann N. reported that 493 “Housing Needs” surveys have been tabulated, and more are still coming into Town hall. All agreed that this is an excellent return rate.
8:35 PM Adjourned. The next PB meeting/zoning hearing is Wednesday, March 3, 2020.
Respectfully submitted: Marie Auger, land use coordinator
Referenced documents – Red-lined text of proposed zoning amendments.