Two-family dwellings were on residents’ minds on Bedford Day – at least once they were informed by Planning Board members of upcoming zoning changes that would encourage them.
During their Tuesday meeting, members shared their experiences working at the Planning Board’s Bedford Day booth. They also scheduled a public hearing on the proposed zoning changes for Oct. 25. The proposed amendments are expected to be included on the 2023 annual town meeting warrant.
Jacinda Barbehenn said she spoke with several residents about proposed zoning bylaw changes that would facilitate adding two-family dwellings. She noted that many of the residents did not seem to be aware of the proposed changes.
Planning Director Tony Fields said that some of the residents he interacted with were opposed to adding two-family dwellings, and feared they could negatively impact existing home values. Fields also noted that residents expressed concerns that two-family dwellings could lead to a mass influx of students.
Member Chris Gittins reported that many of the residents he spoke with were concerned about the lack of “starter homes” in town.
Also at Tuesday’s meeting, board members discussed agenda priorities for fiscal year 2023. Amy Lloyd suggested adding bylaws that would place additional pressure on new residences to utilize solar power. Barbehenn opposed Lloyd’s recommendation, saying that increased regulation discourages building.
Barbehenn and Lloyd agreed that it would be beneficial to clarify bylaws regarding tree cutting in order to reduce confusion and disputes amongst residents. Gittins recommended focusing on “low-hanging fruit” that can be achieved within the fiscal year.
The Board agreed to conduct further discussion of designating priorities during its Oct. 11 meeting. Also that evening, the Planning Board will continue its public hearing regarding a request for a special permit for a proposed residential development at 251A and 251F Old Billerica Road.
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