Brad Saunders, representing the Bay Club, was once again before the Mattapoisett Planning Board to continue his efforts in making changes to the zoning bylaws. As previously presented to the board, Saunders has drafted changes that would allow some general business-zoned locations to be used for cluster sub-divisions and some light industrial areas to be re-zoned as open space. During the last meeting of the board that was held on July 21, Saunders made his presentation of the changes he and his partners would like to put before voters during fall town meeting. On this night, he wanted to know what steps to take next.
Chairman Tom Tucker gave Saunders a form to complete so that a public hearing could be scheduled and posted as required by law. Tucker said, “The Planning Board isn’t suggesting these changes; you are, so you’ll be presenting these at town meeting.”
The public meeting for these proposed bylaw changes will be scheduled for September 15 during the next regular Planning Board meeting (Labor Day holiday negates an earlier meeting). The public is encouraged to participate in the vetting of the suggested changes.
Also on the agenda was a continuation of the hearing with Michael Solimando for the sub-division on Appaloosa Lane. Their engineering representative was a no-show, which caused Tucker to comment, “This is a game. I’m getting tired of it.” GAF Engineering was expected to provide updated plans for storm water management and drainage along with other information that showed forward movement on what has become a very long, wet road that is still incomplete.
Abutters in attendance expressed frustration and wondered if the board could rescind the Form C approval issued for the sub-division now, rather than give the applicant more time to do nothing. Although board members said they could, they preferred to give the applicant additional time to come forward with positive progress. It was further noted that Highway Superintendent Barry Denham was now involved, trying to work with GAF and the town engineering team for a long-term solution that would benefit everyone. Tucker said, however, that if they failed to demonstrate progress by the next meeting, he would entertain a rescission motion.
The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Planning Board is September 15 in the town hall conference room.
By Marilou Newell
