2023 Planning Board Results
With the conclusion of the democratic process, the outcome of the 2023 local elections in Millbury has been determined. The true measure of the newly elected and reelected officials will be the results they achieve for the citizens of Millbury and the constituents they represent.
In the Millbury Planning Board race, there was considerable competition, and the outcome revealed some intriguing trends, such as the 186 people who abstained from voting for any candidate. There will undoubtedly be diverse interpretations of these findings, with some individuals satisfied with the results and others dissatisfied. The central query is what motivated so many individuals to refrain from voting for any candidate.
Planning Board
The effectiveness of both the newly elected and reelected Millbury Planning Board members will be demonstrated through the outcomes they achieve for the citizens of Millbury. Their decisions must consider input from residents and adhere to local zoning bylaws, subdivision rules and regulations, as well as the law. Waivers must not be granted unless it aligns with the zoning bylaw, subdivision control law, or other regulations and laws, and is deemed to be in the public interest. The decision-making process should not solely prioritize the developer's financial interests or rely on unverified predictions of a tax revenue increase provided by the developers themselves, without independent verification by the town or a consultant.
Instances of inaccurate predictions regarding a surge in tax revenue are readily available. According to a MassLive article, the Polar Park project in Worcester serves as a prime example. Originally projected to cost around $86-$90 million, the project's expenses, including land acquisition, escalated to nearly $160 million. Despite this significant increase, the city of Worcester has remained steadfast in their claim. However, a recent study conducted by economists from the College of the Holy Cross and Kennesaw State University in Georgia revealed a potential deficit of $40-$60 million for the city as a result of the project.
The town of Millbury has a great deal riding on the actions of the Millbury Planning Board, given the proposed Chapter 40B project, the MBTA Inclusionary Zoning, and the amendment of zoning bylaws. These initiatives will exert a profound influence on the town's trajectory and future, causing concern among numerous individuals. Incorporating the residents in these determinations from the beginning via open public meetings is critical to achieving inclusivity, as opposed to exacerbating division and discord throughout the community.
Active participation in board and town meetings has become increasingly crucial. Regardless of whether a proposed project directly affects you, it holds the power to shape the town's future indefinitely. Merely expressing grievances and assigning blame afterward accomplishes nothing once a project has received approval. We must proactively engage in these meetings, recognizing that our actions today will shape the outcomes we live with tomorrow.