HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-05-07 ad Hoc - Zoning Advisory Committee MinutesTown of Reading
4 •,
t 4,I Meeting Minutes
NO-11 " ,
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Zoning Advisory Committee
Date: 2014 -05 -07
Building: Reading Town Hall
Address: 16 Lowell Street
Purpose: General Business
Attendees: Members - Present:
Marsie West
David Traniello
David Tuttle
George Katsoufis
Members - Not Present:
Jeff Hansen
Erin Calvo -Bacci
Eric Bergstrom
Others Present:
t<ECDYEU
WN CLERK
�c
L 14 JUN - 3 P I I S
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Selectmen Meeting Room
Session:
Jean Delios- Assistant Town Manager - Community Services
Jessie Wilson - Community Development Administrator
Virginia Adams - Resident
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Jessie Wilson, Community Development
Administrator
Topics of Discussion:
There being a quorum the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM.
Ms. West adjusted the meeting agenda and decided to address the Public Forum Preparation
first. In regards to the slide for the Aquifer Protection District, Ms. Wilson said the ZAC
needed to select one of the alternatives prepared by VHB for the lots partially within the
Aquifer Protection District. It was agreed to select the first alternative which allows the
regulations for the less restricted district to extend into the more restricted district by 50-
feet. However, they modified the language so that it would not require a Special Permit and
that this provision could be used with approval from the Town Engineer. It was also agreed
to modify the proposed language regarding boundary disputes so that it could be filed in-
house and not require a Special Permit.
Mr. Traniello said he has received several comments regarding the Aquifer Protection
District. He says that many people are unhappy with the regulations as it is very limiting.
They also do not understand why we have the district if the wells are no longer used by the
Town.
Ms. West asked whether it is necessary to maintain the district. Mr. Tuttle replied yes, that
not only does it provide for watershed protection, but the Town is required to per DEP order.
Ms. Delios added that it provides a control for development to prevent over - development.
Mr. Katsoufis agreed that water is the resource that dictates development.
Page 1 1
Town of Reading - Meeting Minutes
Mr. Traniello suggested that the VHB and the ZAC, be prepared to answer questions on this
topic at Town Meeting and future forums.
Mr. Tuttle said that it may be worthwhile to have a notebook of infiltration systems so that it
is easier for property owners to understand what the requirement /costs may be.
In regards to Accessory Apartments, the ZAC agreed they would be allowed in Single - Family
Homes subject to conditions. Minor edits were made to the power point presentation
regarding this topic.
The ZAC discussed the slide for Site Plan Review. The ZAC also made some minor changes,
including the suggestion to rename the term to "Full Site Plan Review ".
The ZAC reviewed the Turning Point Questions. In regards to the question for parking, the
ZAC discussed adding a few more answer options. The ZAC also added a few more options
for the signage question as well as the topics for medical marijuana and non - conforming
uses /structures.
Ms. Wilson asked if the ZAC wanted to utilize the "World Cafe" style of discussion on these
topics or just work off of the slides. The ZAC agreed to go off the slides.
Review Section 4.3.2.10, Carriage House - Stable -Barn Preservation
The ZAC reviewed the proposed language. Mr. Traniello recalled a case before the ZBA in
regards to the Carriage House bylaw, but notes it is not used often. This ZAC discuss how
this bylaw relates to the newly proposed Accessory Apartments language. Ms. Wilson noted
the new language does not stipulate the detached structure has to be an existing structure.
She would recommend that the Special Permit option for detached structures be only for
existing structures. The ZAC agreed.
Mr. Traniello suggests VHB check with Counsel on this provision relating to conditions
imposed under MGL Chapter 40A Section 9.
Ms. Virginia Adams said that 1910 date was selected because that was around the time of
the automobile was introduced and the garage design changed after that.
After some further discussion, it was suggested to combine this provision into the proposed
Accessory Apartment language. The ZAC also agreed to have VHB look into revising this into
that language as it seems to make more sense to have the two combined.
Ms. Adams added that the Historical Commission will be discussing this language and can
report back with their suggestions.
Review Section 4.3.3 Site Plan Review
The ZAC discussed Site Plan Review but agreed that a more detailed discussion should occur
when there is full attendance from Board. Mr. Katsoufis brought up a few concerns related
to the proposed thresholds. It was agreed that further information should be gathered
regarding the proposed threshold of 2,000 feet and how VHB established that number. Ms.
Wilson said that if it is a change from retail to restaurant, or office to restaurant it would
trigger the proposed thresholds. The ZAC also discussed the idea of Minor Site Plan Review
and how the proposed changes would impact the process. Mr. Katsoufis asked how many
Minor Site Plan Reviews occurred within the last year. Ms. Delios said more than full site
plan review. The CPDC memo regarding this topic also indicates that Minor Site Plan Review
is working and they review the process they feel require CPDC approval.
Page 1 2
Town of Reading - Meeting Minutes
Approval of Minutes
The ZAC reviewed the minutes from the April 23, 2014 meeting and suggested minor edits.
Mr. Traniello move to approve the minutes of April 23, 2014 as amended. Mr.
Katsoufis seconded and the motion carried 4 -0 -0.
Adiournment
On a motion by Mr. Traniello, seconded by Mr. Tuttle, the ZAC voted to adjourn at
10:OOPM PM by a vote of 4 -0 -0.
Page 1 3