Neighbors working together to preserve our neighborhoods and beyond.
Filter Blog Posts
MBTA Inclusionary Zoning Area Disclosed
The MBTA Inclusionary Zoning might be inconsequential, either way, considering that the defined area is fully developed. Furthermore, the process of acquiring developed properties, demolishing them, and constructing densely populated housing units demands substantial capital. Up to this point, no major corporate investor has shown interest in pursuing any such endeavors in Millbury. The transition from the current state to achieving 15 dwelling units per acre is improbable to happen overnight.
Waivers, Waivers, And More Waivers
As anticipated, the number of waivers is increasing, consistent with our expectations from these developers. Steven Venincasa and James Venincasa seem to adopt a mindset where rules are perceived as non-applicable, deeming requirements irrelevant when they clash with their development goals. This disregard extends to public safety and environmental concerns.
Recap Of Chapter 40B Public Hearing #3
Steve Stearns, acting as the designated neighborhood and community spokesperson, delivered a concise presentation lasting less than 30 minutes. His critique covered the development plans, emphasizing compliance with local and state regulations as mandated by our zoning bylaws, subdivision rules, state building and fire codes, the wetlands protection act, and other pertinent design and development criteria. Based on his engagements with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC), previously identified as the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), it is stressed that strict compliance with all state laws is mandatory and cannot be waived.
Chapter 40B Public Hearing - January 10, 2024
The upcoming public hearing for the proposed Chapter 40B Rice Pond Village project will be hosted by the Millbury Board of Appeals. It is scheduled for Wednesday, January 10, 2024, starting at 7:00 PM. The venue for this event will be at the Millbury Senior Center, situated at One River Street in Millbury, Massachusetts. Attending in person is encouraged for maximum impact. However, if you're unable to attend physically, you can join via Zoom using Meeting ID 897 0147 2250 or watch it on either Verizon FIOS channel 26 or (Charter) Spectrum channel 191, or afterwards on Millbury Video-On-Demand.
Why Building Typology Matters
M.G.L. Chapter 40B defines “Consistent with Local Needs” as ensuring the well-being of proposed housing occupants and city/town residents, enhancing site and building design, and preserving open spaces. This standard heavily influences evaluations of Chapter 40B projects, particularly concerning their alignment with the environment in terms of height, size, proportion, and building typology. Yet, it necessitates the local Board of Appeals to fully meet their responsibilities within the permitting process, guaranteeing the safeguarding of public safety and the environment, while also ensuring the project aligns seamlessly with the existing neighborhood's building typology and relationship to adjacent streets.
The Human Impact Of Development: A Closer Look At Rice Pond Village
In the realm of urban development and community expansion, the decisions made often have far-reaching consequences. They are decisions that ripple through the lives of those directly impacted, shaping their daily existence, their safety, and their well-being. Consider for a moment a scenario where you find yourself at the center of a debate surrounding an oversized multifamily development on an inadequate road with known public safety issues. It's not just a matter of policy or urban planning; it's personal.