The Marion Planning Board met Monday, March 17, for two continued hearings including further discussion on short-term rentals (STRs) and the proposed bylaw in reference to them. The meeting began with comments on community outreach, with Vice-Chair Alanna Nelson mentioning comments and complaints she has received regarding the new Harbormaster Maritime Center and its stairs and lift system.
At certain times of day, Nelson noted, some have complained the bottom step leading up to the offices is hidden by shade, thus making it difficult to descend the steps safely. Regarding this, Chair Andrew Daniel said he would reach out, on behalf of the Planning Board, to Harbormaster Adam Murphy to discuss solutions to this possible hazard. Other complaints regarding the elevator/lift system of the new office. “It’s not an elevator, it’s a lift” Daniel clarified. The Chair suggested signage on how to operate the lift may be helpful, as it does not function the same as a traditional elevator. This will also be included in the Board’s discussions with the Harbormaster.
The public hearing on a Special Permit for FSJ Marion Realty, LLC 207-215 Wareham Street was again continued, this time to April 7, 7:10 pm per request of FSJ.
The continued discussion on the proposed section of the Zoning Bylaw, a part of the Town General Bylaw, regarding short-term rentals was then raised. “We made a lot of edits” Chair Andrew Daniel stated. Following sending the draft to Town Council, the Planning Board received the draft back with “pretty minimal changes” Daniel stated. Town Council polished some terminology and grammar, as well as adding existing general law and bylaw citations where needed, including with regard to the certificate of registration.
The board unanimously agreed to remove a section regarding exceptions, primarily regarding the number of days rented. Andrew Daniel stressed the need to stop a runaway effect whereupon more and more “dwellings become rental properties” and the fear of someone receiving housing payment assistance while also renting out part of or the whole property. Various other changes and tweaks were discussed, many grammatical or done to trim up the draft.
A letter from a resident and Airbnb owner regarding benefits short-term rentals offer was then read. One of the primary positives was stating they “allow residents to rent out unused space.” The note also added “there is a small group vilifying short-term rentals.” Economic and business advantages were also listed.
The public hearing was then closed, followed by the unanimous acceptance and approval of the proposed changes from Town Council and the Planning Board’s work during this meeting.
The next meeting of the Marion Planning Board is scheduled for Monday, April 7 at the Marion Police Station.
Marion Planning Board
By Sam Bishop