During the March 17 meeting of the Mattapoisett Planning Board the members put forth ideas for bylaw changes that could, in the near future, expand the use of properties along the Route 6 corridor.
Members William Winnerburg, a property developer, and John Mathieu, an attorney, have forwarded the idea of looking at the Route 6 corridor in an effort to expand the number of buildable lots primarily for housing.
The board has long grappled with the lack of housing affordable or otherwise in Mattapoisett. Now they are stepping up that work in advance of a fall Town Meeting. They have acknowledged the need for “affordable” housing units for both young families and seniors looking to stay in Mattapoisett to settle there. They have also acknowledged that given the spiraling real estate market and low inventory those hopes are often abandoned. The members believe a change in the density along Route 6, could benefit those seeking local housing.
Mathieu explained that the draft he has been working on would cover any property that fronts on Route 6. His draft envisions townhouse type condominiums on an acre of land. Each unit would have a maximum of two bedrooms and adequate parking for the residents and guests. All setback requirements and lot coverage must be maintained, and the units connected to the municipal sewer system. Much of the construction would need Special Permits he noted.
Wennerburg agrees that with innovated planning and explicit architectural designs “…people will like the opportunity – this is very doable.”
Mathieu and Wennerburg will work collaboratively to develop a draft for review and consideration at the board’s next meeting.
Earlier in the meeting the board discussed various aspects of the new state regulations for the construction of additional dwelling units (ADUs).
Some confusion still exists regarding just how and which types of state, and or, local controls can be or should be put in place. Local businessman David McIntire asked the board, “… which way are you leaning…” accepting the state’s regulations or asking the voters to install a local ADU known as a Protected Use ADU. Chairman Tom Tucker clarified that the board will accept the state’s regulations saying, “…we have no choice.”
A Protected Use ADU shields these units from unreasonable zoning restrictions. The Massachusetts Affordable Housing Act went into effect on February 2, 2025, and allows for by-right home construction in single-family zoning districts with a maximum of 900 square feet or half the primary dwelling gross floor area.
The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Planning Board is scheduled for April 7.
Mattapoisett Planning Board
By Marilou Newell