On November 18, the Mattapoisett Planning Board once again took up the matter of Accessory Dwelling Units as defined by a new state regulation effective in February 2025. The board agreed that rather than simply allowing the state regulations to become Mattapoisett regulations, new bylaw(s) with explicit language was necessary.
For about an hour, the members discussed the pros and cons of what will become more expansive use of land for residential units. They agreed that one of the major stumbling blocks will be various set-backs. Other clarifications needed will be lot coverage, maximum size of ADU, whether or not multiple units can be built on a single parcel, and clarification of zoning districts.
Local businessman David McIntire lent his voice in this matter with a written statement used to direct the hearing’s topics of discussion. He stated, “…language needs to be clearly written,” and reminded the board that, “…ADUs were part of the Master Plan.”
Member John Mathieu offered that set-backs should return to their original measurements and member William Wennerberg said he didn’t want the board to become the “taste police.”
The board will continue discussions and asked the public to offer their suggestion as the board begins the task of crafting language for bylaw(s) changes. Contact Town Planner Victoria Alfaro in the Planning Office with your comments.
In other business, three filings for Approval Not Required were granted to Jeffrey Dunn, 83 Angelica Avenue, Maureen McQuillan, 5-5R Meadowbrook Lane, and, Colin Labrie, 7 Holly Woods Road.
The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Planning Board is planned for December 2.
Mattapoisett Planning Board
By Marilou Newell