Zoning Committee settles on the final approach to the by-law

• ZAC’s goal was to protect neighborhoods as well as the forests and rural habitat. The tree protection bylaw could be a zoning or general bylaw. Based on these primary goals and upon the advice from the town counsel, the committee started to look into a bylaw that would limit clear cutting of trees. This would apply to all industries or any type of land use including solar.    
• Zoning Bylaws requires a 2/3rds majority vote at Town Meeting while General Bylaws require a simple 1/2+ majority. 
• After these considerations, the committee began focusing on language changes to the by-law screening criteria and other measures that would better protect abutters and neighboring landowners.
• Criteria included in the language are added to minimize impact on: 
  • Natural forests, scenic and historic resources
  • Removal of trees and destruction of habitat
  • Area noise, traffic, lighting, dust, fumes, odor 
  • Solar radiation or glare
  • Storm water run-off 

The committee finalized and voted to send it to the Planning Board.  

Video Reference – View and listen to the proposed language for the by-laws

References: 

Jan 25, 2021 – Planning Board reconsiders best approach to commercial solar zoning