Zoning Act c.40A Section 3A Multifamily Housing Compliance
In Spring of 2021 the Governor signed into law an economic development bill. As economic development is dependent on the availability of workers and in some cases consumers, the bill included provisions intended to increase multifamily housing stock, especially in areas with access to transit.
Section 18 of chapter 358 of the Acts of 2020
Draft Guidelines for compliance with the law were released January 5, 2022 and the Town provided commentary relative to concerns with the proposed guidelines.
Draft Guidelines
Planning Director's 2/17/22 Memo
Presentation to Select Board
Sutton's Comments to the State
On August 10, 2022, Final Guidelines were released that contain revisions that appear responsive to comments received.
Final Guidelines
Planning Director's 8/17/22 Memo
In order to remain in compliance with the provisions of C. 40A Section 3A, the Town submitted an Action Plan including a map of potential housing sites in January of 2023 as follows:
Action Plan Filing
Map of Potential Housing Sites
Per the Action Plan the Planning Board will formulate a plan for public education and engagement likely starting in 2023.
In August 2023 guidelines were modified to address mixed use structures:
Revised Guidelines August 2023
The Town applied for a Housing Partnership Grant for consulting assistance to help us with housing and other demographic information and education and public outreach/input for our potential multi family housing bylaw. In October 2023 we were awarded the grant and will be working with Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission (CMRPC) starting in early 2024!
Be sure to check back here for more details!