Anticipating the new state housing law going into effect in February, the Marion Select Board and Planning Board conducted a joint session to discuss potential modification of existing town bylaws in compliance with both the state law and the town’s needs. The law requires all municipalities to allow homeowners to create accessory dwelling units, or ADUs.
The response to the state is being prepared by the Codification Committee of the Select Board.
On Monday evening, the Planning Board met with the Select Board to review and discuss guidelines for the Codification Committee to consider when finalizing the language.
The two boards worked through a list of at least ten items to be clarified with specific details, such as what constitutes “gross floor area,” what size ADUs to be allowed under different scenarios, and in which zoning districts will they be allowed. Also, how to handle condos and multi-family buildings with separate owners, public safety considerations, and potential changes to water and sewer regulations.
The questions of incorporating existing accessory apartment units and regulations and short-term residence restrictions were also discussed at length.
The joint boards, along with building Commissioner Bob Grillo, came to agreement on several issues, and agreed to seek clarification from Town Counsel or other parties as needed.
The group’s next step is to meet again in Joint Committee to finalize recommendations for the Codification Committee, after which the committee will draft the new bylaw and present it to the Planning Board. Once bylaw language is approved but no later than December or January, the Board will conduct public hearing(s). A warrant for the Annual Town Meeting in May must be submitted in March.
The meeting adjourned at 6:55 pm and was followed by the Planning Board meeting.
The date of the next Joint Committee Meeting will be announced once it has been scheduled. The next regular meeting of the Select Board will be on October 16 at 6:00 PM at the Marion Town House.
Marion Select Board & Planning Board
By Mary McCann Fiske