Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text
(3-23-26 Document #8) DRAFT WIP FINCOM REPORT 3-18-26
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Source page 41
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
ARTICLE 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 6
MOVED: That the sum of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000) be appropriated from the Community
Preservation Fund revenues to be spent by the Canton Historical Commission for the purposes of studying
and preserving the Gridley Burying Ground located off Kinsley Place.
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 7
MOVED: That the sum of Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Seventy-Four Dollars ($16,274) be
appropriated from the Community Preservation Fund revenues to be spent by the Canton Historical
Society for the purposes of performing a historically-informed structural analysis of the Gridley School
Building on Washington Street.
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-1
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
40Source page 42
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
ARTICLE 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 8
MOVED: That the sum of Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000) be appropriated from the
Community Preservation Fund revenues to be spent by the Revere & Son Heritage Trust for the purposes
of adding automatic door openers to 3 entry point of the Town-owned historic barn at 2 Rolling Mill Way
to improve accessibility.
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 9
MOVED: That the sum of Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000) be appropriated from the Community
Preservation Fund revenues to be spent by the Canton Housing Authority for the purposes of the
replacement of windows and accompanying work on the Hemenway Apartment Building as planned in
Phase IV.
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
41Source page 43
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
ARTICLE 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 10
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) be appropriated from the
Community Preservation Fund revenues to be spent within the rules governed by the Community
Preservation Act Statute, by the Canton Affordable Housing Trust for the purposes of continuing to
support the preservation and creation of new affordable home ownership and rental units in Canton.
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-3
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
42Source page 44
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
ARTICLE 18
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE CAPITAL STABILIZATION ACCOUNT
Article 18 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money in order to increase the Capital Stabilization Account, or to
take any action related thereto.
Select Board Discussion: This account was originally created to make up any shortfalls for capital requests that
were unanticipated after projects were approved. Currently, this funding will be utilized to offset the debt service
costs for the new Galvin Middle School. The Select Board supports the Finance Director’s recommendation for
appropriating funds to the Capital Stabilization Account. Vote 5-0-0
MOVED: That the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated to the Capital
Stabilization Account (#801) and to meet this appropriation, One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be
transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0
Draft Discussion based on last year’s discussion.
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously voted to support the transfer of $1,000,000 from Free Cash
to the Capital Stabilization Fund for future capital projects. Annual Town Meeting 2022 established the Capital
Stabilization Fund with a transfer of $1,000,000 from Free Cash. Stabilization Funds provide the Town with the
opportunity to set aside funds for specific uses. This funding will help to offset the future debt service costs of the
new Galvin Middle School renovation/rebuild project. This account will require a 2/3 vote of Town Meeting for
withdrawals, but only a majority vote for deposits.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 19
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE SPECIAL EDUCATION RESERVE ACCOUNT
Article 19 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money in order to increase any Special Education Reserve Account, or
to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the School Committee
Select Board Discussion: The cost of Special Education continues to rise and Canton's costs exceed the
appropriation from the state. This fund serves to close that gap. School officials, the Finance Director and the Town
Administrator met to establish the amount necessary to provide these vital services to our students. The Select
Board supports this article unanimously. Vote 5-0-0
MOVED: That the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated to the Special
Education Reserve Account (#250) and to meet this appropriation, One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be
transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
Draft Discussion based on last year’s discussion.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted unanimously to support the transfer of
$1,000,000 from Free Cash to the Special Education Reserve Account. The School Department has worked to offer
increased special education in district and to plan for the needs of students who require out of district
placements. Special education costs are on the rise and are unpredictable, so this reserve account is intended to
43Source page 45
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
offset unexpected costs for special education needs that emerge during the school year. This will allow the School
Department to cover the unexpected costs, the out of district tuition and transportation costs, and still have levels
of enhancement to benefit the students and staff.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 20
APPROPRIATION TO CREATE SAFE STREETS
Article 20 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money to improve safety on Canton roads and sidewalks by improved
signage, roadway, sidewalk and crosswalk painting, and any other necessary improvements or to take any other
action related thereto.
Select Board Discussion: The Select Board voted to indefinitely postpone Article 20 due to current fiscal constraints
and competing funding priorities. Postponing the article at this time allows the Town to maintain fiscal stability
while preserving the opportunity to revisit the matter in the future should funding become available.
Vote 5-0-0.
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 20 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
DISCUSSION: The finance Committee voted unanimously to postpone this article indefinitely, as this
article has been withdrawn at this time.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 21
APPROPRIATION FOR GRIDLEY CEMETERY REPAIR
Article 21 To see If the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute a sum of money ($20,189) for the purpose of protecting and preserving the
Gridley Cemetery on Kinsley Place. Said funds shall be used for the implementation of an in- depth ground
penetrating radar (GPR) survey and constructing a historically appropriate fence and interpretive signage. Said
work shall meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. This work shall be overseen by Canton
Historical Commission. Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Historical Commission
MOVED: That the sum of Twenty Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Nine Dollars ($20,189) be
transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) to be expended by the Historical Commission
with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of protecting and preserving the Gridley
Cemetery on Kinsley Place. Said funds shall be used for the implementation of an in- depth ground
penetrating radar (GPR) survey and constructing a historically appropriate fence and interpretive
signage. Said work shall meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
44Source page 46
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 22
SPECIAL ACT REQUEST AUTHORIZING MUNICIPAL CHARGE LIENS
ARTICLE 22 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to request a special act of the General Court,
in the form set forth below, in relation to placing municipal charge liens, provided, however, that the General Court
may make clerical or editorial changes of form only to the bill, unless the Select Board approve amendments to the
bill before enactment by the General Court; and provided further that the Select Board is hereby authorized to
approve amendments which shall be within the general public objectives of this petition:
“AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF CANTON TO PLACE MUNICIPAL CHARGE LIENS ON CERTAIN PROPERTIES IN
THE TOWN OF CANTON FOR NONPAYMENT OF ANY LOCAL CHARGES, FEE OR FINE
SECTION 1.
(a) The town of Canton may impose a lien on property located within the town for any local charge, fee or fine that
has not been paid by the due date. This lien shall be known as a municipal charges lien. For purposes of this act,
local charge, fee or fine shall mean any charge, fee or fine imposed by the town under the town by-laws, town
regulations, statute or state regulations and any charge, fee or fine imposed by a state court payable to the town as
a result of any action initiated by town officials to enforce town by-laws, town regulations, statute or state regulations.
(b) A lien authorized under this act shall take effect upon recording of the unpaid municipal charge, fee or fine, by
parcel of land and by the name of the property owner assessed for the fine in the registry of deeds of Norfolk county.
€ If a charge, fee or fine, which is secured by a municipal charges lien, remains unpaid when the assessors are
preparing a real estate tax list and warrant to be committed under section 53 of chapter 59 of the General Laws,
then the board or officer in charge of the collection of the municipal charge, fee or fine shall certify such charge, fee
or fine to the assessors, who shall add the charge, fee or fine to the tax on the property to which it relates and
commit it with the warrant to the collector of taxes as part of the tax.
(d) If the property to which such charge, fee or fine relates is tax exempt, the charge, fee or fine shall be committed
as the tax.
€ A lien under this section may be discharged by filing in the registry of deeds of Norfolk county, a certificate from
the tax collector that all municipal charges, fees or fines constituting the lien, together with any interest and costs
thereon, have been paid or legally abated.
(f) All costs of recording or discharging a lien under this act shall be borne by the owner of the property.
(g) Prior to any lien being imposed for any local charge, fee or fine as defined by this act, a bylaw shall be established
by a vote of town meeting specifying each type of charge, fee or fine to be collected under this act.
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon its passage.”
Or take any further action in relation thereto.
Select Board Discussion: The Select Board supports this article because it provides the Town with an effective tool
to ensure compliance with local bylaws and the timely payment of municipal charges, fees, and fines. Authorizing a
municipal charges lien allows the Town to recover unpaid obligations in a manner similar to property taxes,
promoting fairness and accountability among property owners. This authority would strengthen enforcement of
local regulations while helping protect the Town’s financial interests and reducing the burden on taxpayers who
otherwise subsidize unpaid charges. Vote 5-0-0.
MOVED: That Town Representatives in the General Court be requested to file with the General
Court a home rule petition for the enactment of An Act Authorizing Municipal Charge Liens In Canton as
printed in the Warrant for Town in relation to placing municipal charge liens; and that the General
Court, with approval of the Select Board, be authorized to make constructive changes in language as
may be necessary or advisable towards perfecting the intent of such legislation to secure passage.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
45Source page 47
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 23
BYLAW MODERNIZATION STUDY COMMITTEE EXTENSION
Article 23 To see If the Town will vote to reauthorize the Town Meeting Bylaw Modernization Study Committee for
two (2) years to conduct a review of the Town of Canton’s General By-Laws for possible town meeting articles to
adopt changes thereto (but not the town’s Zoning By-laws) and to bring forth recommendations for adoption of
changes on or before the 2028 Annual Town Meeting. Vacancies occurring on this Town Meeting Committee shall
be appointed by the Town Moderator. The Committee shall continue to be comprised of 9 members to include:
• A Member of the Select Board, or designee of the Select Board;
• Director of Finance, or designee of the Finance Director;
• Information Systems manager, or designee of the Information Systems manager
• Town Administrator, or designee of the Town Administrator; and
• 5 citizens of the Town of Canton as members at large.
Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Bylaw Modernization Study Committee
MOVED: That Town Meeting reauthorize the Town Meeting Bylaw Modernization Study
Committee, established with adoption of Article 30 Bylaw Modernization Study Committee Creation at
the May 2024 Annual Town Meeting, for two (2) years to conduct a review of the Town of Canton’s
General Bylaws for possible town meeting articles to adopt changes thereto (but not the Town’s Zoning
Bylaws) and to bring forth recommendations for adoption of changes before the 2030 Annual Town
Meeting. Vacancies occurring on this Town Meeting Committee shall be appointed by the Town
Moderator. The Committee shall continue to be comprised of 9 members as presented in this article.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 24
AMEND GENERAL BYLAW ARTICLE IV ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MODERATOR
Article 24 To see if the Town will vote to amend General Bylaw Article IV by deleting Section 1A in its entirety,
deleting Section 4 in its entirety and replacing with the following Section 4 and amend Section 5 with the following
with new language in bold and language to be deleted in strikethrough
Section 4 Moderator Election, Powers and Duties
The town moderator, elected as provided below, shall preside at all sessions of the town meeting.
Annually, at the first session of the spring town meeting, the town moderator shall appoint a deputy
moderator to serve as acting moderator in the event of the temporary absence or disability of the town
moderator. The appointment of a deputy moderator shall be subject to ratification by the town
meeting. The deputy moderator shall, when presiding at town meeting sessions, have all the powers of
the town moderator, but shall have no other powers or duties of the town moderator.
The town moderator, at town meetings, shall regulate the proceedings, decide all questions of order,
make public declaration of all votes and may exercise such additional powers and duties as may be
authorized by general law, by-law or other vote of the town meeting.
46Source page 48
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
(a) Term of Office - The moderator shall be elected to serve a two (2) year term, beginning with the
2027 annual town election and every two (2) years thereafter. The incumbent town moderator’s term
shall expire upon election of a successor moderator at the 2027 annual town election.
(b) Powers and Duties – The town moderator shall be the presiding officer of the town meeting, shall
regulate its proceedings, decide all questions of order and shall have such other powers and duties as
may be provided for that office by general law, by-law and other vote of the town meeting.
© Vacancy – In the event of a vacancy in the office of town moderator, the deputy moderator, as
designated above, shall perform the powers and duties of the town moderator until the election of a
successor.
Section 5 Order of Business
The order of business at the annual town meeting shall be as follows:
1. the election of a moderator,
2. 1. The adoption of procedures to govern the conduct of the meeting,
3. 2. To hear the reports of committees appointed at prior town meetings,
4. 3. To hear a report on the fiscal condition of the town,
5. 4. To act on a, so-called, consent agenda,
Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Bylaw Modernization Study Committee
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article IV be amended as printed in the Warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 25
AMEND GENERAL BYLAW ARTICLE IV ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – VOTING
Article 25 To see if the Town will vote to amend General Bylaw Article IV by inserting the following language into
Section 12 after the second paragraph:
Notwithstanding the provisions of Voice vote, subject to the availability of an approved electronic vote counting and
recording system for use by Town Meeting members, the Moderator may determine that a vote be taken by use of
such electronic vote counting and recording system.
Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Bylaw Modernization Study Committee
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article IV be amended by inserting the following language into
Section 12 after the second paragraph: Notwithstanding the provisions of Voice vote, subject to the
availability of an approved electronic vote counting and recording system for use by Town Meeting
members, the Moderator may determine that a vote be taken by use of such electronic vote counting
and recording system.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
47Source page 49
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 26
AMEND GENERAL BYLAW ARTICLE IV ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – RECONSIDERATION
Article 26 To see if the Town will vote to amend General Bylaw Article IV by deleting the language in Section 6 in
its entirety and inserting the following language in its place:
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article IV be amended by deleting the language in Section 6 in its
entirety and inserting the following language in its place:
Section 6 Reconsideration
If an article of the warrant has once been acted upon and disposed of, a motion to return to the article may be
made at any time, if the Moderator determines that the person offering the motion discloses significant new factual
information to the Town meeting concerning said article, which existed but had not been disclosed or made
available to the meeting when the motion under that article was debated, and the Moderator thereupon explains
why such information satisfies the foregoing criteria. If the moderator deems a reconsideration request does not
meet the requirements but the body feels differently, then the proponent of the reconsideration request can ask for
a vote of the town meeting members and if this vote passed by a simple majority that the motion to reconsider will
proceed provided, however, that debate and action on said motion shall be deferred until all financial articles are
concluded and the budget ball is added to the lottery system. A two-thirds vote shall be required for approval of a
motion to reconsider an article
Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Bylaw Modernization Study Committee
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED_________
ARTICLE 27
AMEND BYLAW ARTICLE XIV POLICE REGULATIONS SECTION 2 OBSTRUCTIONS OF PUBLIC WAYS AND
SIDEWALKS
Article 27 To see if the Town will vote to amend General Bylaw Article XIV Section 2 by adding the following new
language in bold:
Section 2. Obstructions of Public Ways and Sidewalks No person shall place, or cause to be placed, upon any
public way or sidewalk, any lumber, iron, wood, coal, trunk, bale, box, crate, cask, barrel, package or other thing,
and allow the same to remain for more than one hour, or more than ten minutes after being notified by a police
officer to remove the same, provided that the provisions of this section shall not apply to placing of ashes, refuse
or garbage in proper receptacles for collection under public authority. Any such obstruction(s) as referred to
in this section which remain(s) on any public way or sidewalk beyond the above referenced time
frame(s) may be removed by and/or under the direction of a police officer at the owner’s expense and
any expense(s) not reimbursed to the Town shall constitute a municipal charge lien in accordance with
G.L. c. 40, §58.
Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article XIV Police Regulations Section 2 Obstruction of Public Ways
and Sidewalks be amended as presented in the warrant and further that the town shall not be held
responsible for any damages to obstructions, which are removed from the public way and sidewalks.
48Source page 50
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports the motion to amend General By-Law Article XIV,
Section 2 OBSTRUCTIONS OF PUBLIC WAYS & SIDEWALKS. Under this proposed amendment, this modification will
enable the town to provide/maintain safety of public ways by preventing obstructions on streets, sidewalks, fire
hydrants or any publicly owned ways, to be shielded from all liability associated with the removal of said
obstructions and will add the cost of removal as the responsibility of the offender which will cut down both time and
legal expenses.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 28
AMEND BYLAW ARTICLE XVI MISCELLANEOUS SECTION 4 TRAILER BYLAW
Article 28 To see if the Town will vote to amend General Bylaw Article XVI Section 4 by amending the with
following added language under Special Regulation item 2. The amendments are as follows with the new language
in bold:
Article XVI Miscellaneous
Section 4 Trailer Bylaw
Special Regulation:
2. In a garage or other accessory building, or in the real half of a lot owned or occupied by the owner of the trailer
(if placed so as to conform to the yard requirements of the Zoning By-Laws for main buildings in the same district),
or in an approved driveway consistent with Town of Canton Zoning Bylaws, but its use for business and/or
living purposes is prohibited, except that the Board of Appeals may subject to reasonable conditions and
safeguards, authorize: a. The use of a trailer as a temporary office incidental to construction on or development of
the premises on which located. B. The temporary use of a trailer for living purposes owner of the lot on which
located for a period not exceeding three (3) months, provided that such authorization shall not be renewed or
extended to exceed a total of twelve (12) months in any case.
Or to take any action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article XVI Miscellaneous Section 4 Trailer Bylaw be amended as
presented in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports the motion to amend General By-Law Article XVI
Section 4. Under this proposed amendment, vehicles (trailers/campers), would be allowed to be parked on a
resident's driveway or on a lawn. This amendment will create compliance with current zoning setbacks as required
for the primary dwelling, creating more flexibility to park their trailers/vehicles at their residence while reducing
homeowner violations with the current by-law.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 29
AMEND BYLAW ARTICLE XVII SECTION 1 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SUBSECTION 16 PENALTY AND
SUBSECTION 17 FEES
Article 29 To see if the Town will vote to amend the General Bylaw Article XVII Section 1 Subsection 16 and
Subsection 17 to provide consistency between the General Bylaws and the Board of Health Policies. The
amendments are as follows with the new language in bold and deleted language in strikethrough:
Section 1 Hazardous Materials
Subsection 16 Penalty
Any person who violates any provision of this By-Law shall be punished by a fine of not more than three hundred
($300.00) dollars. Each day or portion thereof during which a violation continues shall constitute a separate
49Source page 51
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
offense if more than one, each condition violated shall constitute a separate offense. This By-Law may be enforced
pursuant to M.G.L., Chapter 40 Section 21D by the Board of Health, a Canton Police Officer or any other officer
having police powers.
Section 1 Hazardous Materials
Subsection 17 Fees
Any person registering storage of hazardous materials pursuant to subsection 6 shall pay to the town of Canton an
annual registration fee set by the Board of Health. Such a fee shall be due on the same date as the annual
registration. Failure to pay shall constitute a violation and shall be subject to the penalties of subsection 16 of the
By-Law.
Or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article XVII Section 1 Subsection 16 and Subsection 17 be amended
to provide consistency between the General Bylaws and the Board of Health Policies, as presented in the
warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-1
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 30
AMEND BYLAW ARTICLE XIV POLICE REGULATIONS SECTION 41 WATER WELLS
Article 30 To see if the Town will vote to amend the General Bylaw Article XIV Section 41 to provide consistency
between the General Bylaws and the Board of Health Policies by amending the language. The amendments are as
follows with new language in bold and deleted language in strikethrough:
Section 41 Water Wells
a) No person or entity corporate or otherwise, as owner or as one in control of premises shall excavate or
drill in the Town of Canton for the purpose of creating and maintaining a well for commercial use without
first obtaining from the Select Board Board of Health written authorization for said excavating or drilling.
b) Any person or entity who violates this By-Law shall be liable to a fine of $20.00 $300.00 or penalty set
by the Board of Health for each day said violation continues.
Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article XIV Police Regulations Section 41 Water Wells be amended
to provide consistency between the General Bylaws and the Board of Health Policies by amending the
language as presented in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-1
DISCUSSION: The Board of Health is responsible for permitting and regulating wells in the Town of Canton under
Mass Gen Law. This is generally a housekeeping article to align the bylaw with general practice and current state
legislation. Additionally, this also aligns the permissible fine amount with our similar local municipalities.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 31
AMEND BYLAW ARTICLE XVI MISCELLANEOUS SECTION 9 REGULATING SMOKING
Article 31 To see if the Town will vote to amend General Bylaw Article XVI Section 9 D through I to provide
consistency between the General Bylaws and the Board of Health Policies by amending the language. The
amendments are as follows with new language in bold and deleted language in strikethrough:
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
Section 9 Smoking
D. Smoking Prohibited: Smoking is prohibited per MGL Ch. 270 § 22 in all workplaces, restaurants, bars, and all
enclosed or public places within the Town of Canton except as may be authorized in section F of this bylaw.
E. Posting Notice of Prohibition: Every person having control of premises upon which smoking is prohibited by and
under the authority of this bylaw shall conspicuously display upon entry of the premises “No Smoking” signs using
a clearly readable font with at least 2-inch highly contrasted lettering, or the international “No Smoking” symbol
(consisting of a pictorial representation of a burning cigarette enclosed in a red circle with a red bar across it at
least 6 inches in diameter). F. Exceptions: Notwithstanding the provisions of Paragraph D of this bylaw, smoking
may be permitted in the following places and/or circumstances:
1. Private residences, except those portions used as a childcare or health care office when operating as
such,
2. Retail tobacco stores where the owner or manager ensures that persons under the age of eighteen
(18) twenty-one (21) may never enter the premises at any time, and where the owner or manager conspicuously
posts signs, acceptable to the Board of Health, at the entrance(s) stating that persons under the age of eighteen
(18) twenty-one (21) are prohibited from entering the premises and stating further that environmental tobacco
smoke is hazardous to health;
G. Conflict with Other Laws or Regulations: Notwithstanding the provisions of the foregoing Paragraph F of this
regulation, nothing in this regulation shall be deemed to amend, repeal or override applicable 95 REVISED General
By-Laws (2024 edition) fire, health or other regulations or statutes so as to permit smoking in areas where it is
prohibited by such fire, health or other regulations or statutes.
H. Violations and Penalties: Any person, employer, and/or their employee or business agent, who violates any
provision of this bylaw, the violation of which is subject to a specific penalty, may be penalized by the non-criminal
method of disposition as provided in MGL c 40, § 21D or by filing a criminal complaint at the appropriate venue. It
shall be the responsibility of an employer, or their employee or business agent, to ensure compliance with all
sections of this bylaw. Penalties are per the Canton Board of Health “Regulation of the Sale of Tobacco
and Nicotine Products” Amended 2025 as well as all subsequent amendments.
I. Penalties: Any person who violates any provision of this bylaw shall be subject to a fine of one
hundred dollars ($100) for a first offense, two hundred dollars ($200) for a second offense within one
year of the date of the first offense and three hundred dollars ($300) for a third or subsequent
offense within one year of the date of the first offense. Violations of this bylaw may be enforced in the
manner provided in MGL c 40, § 21D.
Or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That Bylaw Article XVI Miscellaneous Section 9 Regulating Smoking be amended to
provide consistency between the General Bylaws and the Board of Health Policies by amending the
language as presented in warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-1
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 32
AMEND GENERAL BYLAW ARTICLE XXI STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Article 32 To see if the Town will vote to amend General Bylaw Article XXI as follows with new language in bold
and deleted language in strikethrough.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVE
A. The purpose of this bylaw is to protect public health, safety, general welfare, and environment by
controlling the adverse effects of construction site stormwater runoff and post-construction runoff from new
development and redevelopment. The construction phase and post-development impacts of stormwater runoff
quantity and quality can adversely affect public safety, public and private property, surface water drinking water
supplies, groundwater drinking water supplies, recreation, aquatic habitats, fish and other aquatic life, property
values, and other uses of lands and waters.
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
B. The objectives of this bylaw are to:
1. Protect water resources;
2. Comply with state and federal statutes and regulations relating to stormwater discharges;
3. Prevent and reduce pollutants from entering the Town of Canton’s municipal separate storm sewer
system (MS4);
4. Establish minimum construction and post construction stormwater management standards and design
criteria for the regulation and control of stormwater runoff quantity and quality;
5. Require the use of nonstructural stormwater management practices, stormwater better site design
practices or “low-impact development practices”, such as reducing impervious cover and the preservation of
greenspace and other natural areas, unless proven to be infeasible;
6. Establish provisions for the long-term responsibility for and maintenance of structural stormwater control
facilities and nonstructural stormwater best management practices to ensure that they continue to function as
designed and are perpetually maintained;
7. Establish administrative procedures and fees for the submission, review, approval or disapproval of
stormwater management plans, and for the inspection of approved active projects, and long-term follow up;
8. Ensure that there is an adequate funding mechanism, including surety, for the proper review of
applications, inspection of projects, and assurance of the long-term maintenance of stormwater facilities
implemented as part of this Bylaw;
9. Recognize Canton’s legal authority to ensure compliance with the provisions of this bylaw through
inspection, monitoring, and enforcement;
10. Require, through issuance of a Major or Minor Stormwater Management Permit, and through an
inspection program described in the Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations, the proper management of
construction phase soil erosion and sediment control to minimize or eliminate erosion and maintain sediment on
site so that it is not transported in stormwater runoff and allowed to discharge to a water of the U.S through
Canton’s drainage system, as required by the Town of Canton’s Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System
(MS4) General Permit issued by the United States Environmental Protection Administration (EPA).
2. APPLICABILITY
A. No person may undertake a construction activity or land disturbance activity, including clearing,
grading, excavation or redevelopment that will disturb or alter an area equal to or greater than 20,000 1,000
square feet without a Major or Minor Stormwater Management Permit approved by a majority of the Stormwater
Authority members or as otherwise provided in this Bylaw. Any person that fails to follow the requirements of a
Major or Minor Stormwater Management Permit, including and the related Erosion and Sediment Control
Methods Plan and Operations and Maintenance Plan, shall be in violation of this Bylaw.
1. This Bylaw shall be applicable to all new development and redevelopment, including, but not limited to,
site plan applications, subdivision applications, grading applications, land use conversion applications, any activity
that will result in an increased amount of stormwater runoff or pollutants flowing from a parcel of land, or any
activity that will alter the drainage characteristics of a parcel of land, unless exempt pursuant to Section 2.C of this
Bylaw. All new development and redevelopment under the jurisdiction of this Bylaw as prescribed in this Bylaw
shall be required to obtain a Major or Minor Stormwater Management Permit.
2. The holder of a Major or Minor Stormwater Management Permit must employ sediment and erosion
control at the permitted construction site in accordance with an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan Methods
approved by the Stormwater and/or Erosion and Sediment Control Authority. The Proposed Erosion and
Sediment Control Plan Methods must be prepared designed in accordance with the Canton Stormwater
Management Rules and Regulations and the “Massachusetts Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines for Urban
and Suburban Areas”, May 2003 (or as modified). Proposed Erosion and Sediment Control Methods shall be
shown on all site development plans.
B. Hotspots - An alteration, redevelopment, or conversion of land use to a hotspot such as, without
limitation: auto salvage yards, auto fueling facilities, fleet storage yards, commercial parking lots with high
intensity use, road salt storage areas, commercial nurseries and landscaping businesses, outdoor storage and
loading areas of hazardous substances, shall require a Major or Minor Stormwater Management Permit.
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
C. Exemptions – The following activities are exempt from the requirement to obtain a Major or Minor
Stormwater Management Permit:
1. Any activity that will alter an area less than 20,000 1,000 square feet, with the exception of any
projects which file for a Stormwater Management Permit between the effective date of this Bylaw and prior to after
August 30, 2020, for which the threshold will be 5,000 20,000 square feet of disturbance or less than 25% of a
contiguous property, whichever is less. This exception may not be applied for contiguous properties held in
common ownership at the time of adoption of this Bylaw that may have been previously subdivided and/or are
attributed to multiple separate owners.
2. Normal maintenance and improvement of land in agricultural use as defined by the Wetlands Protection
Act.
3. Maintenance of existing landscaping, gardens or lawn areas associated with a single family dwelling.
4. Repair or replacement of an existing roof of a single family dwelling.
4.5. The construction of any fence that will not alter existing terrain or drainage patterns.
5.6. Construction or repair of utilities (gas, water, sewer, electric, telephone, etc.) other than drainage,
which will not alter terrain, ground cover, or drainage patterns.
6.7. Emergency repairs to any stormwater management system, facility or practice that poses a threat to
public health or safety, or as deemed necessary by the Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority.
7.8. Any work or projects for which all necessary approvals and permits have been issued before the
effective date of this Bylaw.
D. Nothing in this Bylaw is intended to replace the requirements of the Town of Canton Zoning Bylaw,
Town of Canton Land Subdivision Rules and Regulations, Flood Plain Overlay District, the Town of Canton
Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Consolidated Drainage Bylaw or any other Bylaw that may be adopted by the Town
of Canton. Any activity subject to the provisions of the above cited Bylaws must comply with the specifications of
each. Nothing in this Bylaw is intended to replace the requirements of construction site operators to comply with
the terms and conditions of EPA’s Construction General Permit.
3. AUTHORITY
This Bylaw is adopted under authority granted by the Home Rule Amendment of the Massachusetts Constitution,
the Home Rule statutes, and pursuant to the regulations of the federal Clean Water Act found at 40 CFR 122.34.
4. ADMINISTRATION
A. The Conservation Commission Board of Public Works or its authorized Agent(s) shall administer,
implement and enforce this Bylaw. Any powers granted to or duties imposed upon the Commission Board of
Public Works may be delegated in writing by the Commission Board of Public Works to its employees or
agents.
B. Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations. The Conservation Commission Board of Public
Works may adopt, and periodically amend, rules and regulations relating to the terms, conditions, definitions,
enforcement (including sanctions for violation), fees (including application, inspection, and/or consultant technical
review fees), procedures and administration of this Stormwater Management Bylaw by majority vote of the
Commission Board of Public Works after conducting a public hearing to receive comments on any proposed
revisions. Such hearing dates shall be advertised in a newspaper of general local circulation, at least seven (7)
days prior to the hearing date. After public notice and public hearing, the Commission Board of Public Works
may promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this Bylaw. Failure by the Commission Board
of Public Works to promulgate such rules and regulations or a legal declaration of their invalidity by a court shall
not act to suspend or invalidate the effect of this Bylaw. As revisions to this Bylaw may precede updates to the
Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations, in case of conflict, this Bylaw shall govern and the Conservation
Commission Board of Public Works and its authorized Agent(s) may waive provisions of the Stormwater
Management Rules and Regulations which are in conflict with
this Bylaw. Applicants should consult with the Conservation Agent Stormwater Authority.
C. Massachusetts Stormwater Handbook. The Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority, at a
minimum, may utilize the policy, criteria and information including specifications and standards of the latest edition
of the Massachusetts Stormwater Handbook for execution of the provisions of this Bylaw. This Handbook includes
a list of acceptable stormwater treatment practices, including the specific design criteria for each stormwater
practice. The Handbook may be updated and expanded periodically, based on improvements in engineering,
science, monitoring, and local maintenance experience. Unless specifically altered revised in the Stormwater
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
Management Rules and Regulations, stormwater management practices that are designed, constructed, and
maintained in accordance with the Handbook will be presumed to be protective of Massachusetts water quality
standards.
D. Major or Minor Stormwater Management Permit. The Conservation Commission Board of Public
Works shall have the authority to adopt rules and regulations further defining the Major or Minor Stormwater
Management Permit (SMP) for projects as described in section 2.A.
E. Actions by the Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority. The Conservation Commission
Stormwater Authority may take any of the following actions as a result of an application for a Major or Minor
Stormwater Management Permit as more specifically defined as part of Stormwater Management Rules and
Regulations promulgated pursuant to this Bylaw: Approval, Approval with Conditions, Denial, or Denial without
Prejudice.
F. Appeals of Action by the Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority. A decision of the
Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority shall be final. Further relief of a decision by the Conservation
Commission Stormwater Authority made under this Bylaw shall be appealed to a court of competent jurisdiction.
G. Stormwater Utility. The Select Board may adopt, pursuant to any applicable law or Bylaw, a Stormwater
Utility pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 83 Section 16 and Chapter 40 Section 1A. The Select Board shall administer,
implement, and enforce this Utility. Failure by the Canton Select Board to promulgate such a Stormwater Utility
through its Regulations or a legal declaration of its invalidity by a court shall not act to suspend or invalidate the
effect of the other provisions of this Bylaw.
H. Stormwater Management Design Credit System. The Canton Conservation Commission Board of
Public Works may adopt, through the Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations authorized by this
Stormwater Management Bylaw, a Stormwater Management Design Credit System. This credit system will allow
applicants the option, if approved by the Commission Board of Public Works, to take credit for the use of
stormwater low impact design practices to reduce some of the requirements specified in the criteria section of the
Regulations. Failure by the Commission Board of Public Works to promulgate such a credit system through its
Regulations or a legal declaration of the invalidity of the credit system by a court shall not act to suspend or
invalidate the effect of the other provisions of this Bylaw.
5. PROCEDURES
Permit Procedures and Requirements shall be defined and included as part of any rules and regulations
promulgated as permitted under Section 4.B. of this Bylaw. As revisions to this Bylaw may precede updates to the
Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations, in case of conflict, this Bylaw shall govern and the Conservation
Commission Stormwater Authority and or its authorized Agent(s) may waive provisions of the Stormwater
Management Rules and Regulations which are in conflict with this Bylaw. Applicants should consult with the
Conservation Agent Stormwater Authority.
6. ENFORCEMENT
The Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority and Erosion and Sediment Control Authority as or an
authorized agent(s) of the Conservation Commission Board of Public Works shall enforce this Bylaw,
regulations, orders, violation notices, and enforcement orders, and may pursue all civil and criminal remedies for
such violations. Enforcement shall be further defined and included as part of any Stormwater regulations
promulgated as permitted under Section 4.B. of this Bylaw.
7. COORDINATION WITH OTHER TOWN DEPARTMENTS
Any person filing a permit application with the Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority shall submit a
copy thereof at the same time, by email, certified mail, or hand delivery, to the Select Board, Planning Board, DPW
Engineering Department DPW Engineering Department, Conservation Commission,
Board of Appeals, Board of Health, Fire Chief and the Building Inspector. The person filing such application
shall at the same time submit to the Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority a written notice that these
copies have been submitted to these other boards, departments and officials. The Conservation Commission
Stormwater Authority shall not take final action on an application until such boards, departments and officials
have had fourteen calendar days from their receipt to submit written comments, if any, to the Conservation
Commission Stormwater Authority. The applicant shall have the right to receive such written comments, if any,
and to respond to them, if desired, prior to final action.
8. DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply in the interpretation and implementation of this Bylaw. Additional definitions
may be adopted by separate regulation:
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
ALTER: Any activity which will measurably change the ability of a ground surface area to absorb water or will
change existing surface drainage patterns. Alter may be similarly represented as “alteration of drainage
characteristics,” and “conducting land disturbing activities.”
AUTHORIZED AGENT(S): A Town of Canton department, board or employee that has been granted the
authority to act on behalf of the Board of Public Works regarding implementing the Stormwater
Management Bylaw and Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations. Authorized agents include,
but not limited to, the Stormwater Authority and the Erosion and Sediment Control Authority as defined
in this Bylaw.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE (BMP): Structural, non-structural and managerial techniques that are recognized to
be the most effective and practical means to prevent and/or reduce increases in stormwater runoff volumes and
flows, reduce point source and nonpoint source pollution, and promote stormwater quality and protection of the
environment. “Structural” BMPs are devices that are engineered and constructed to provide temporary storage and
treatment of stormwater runoff. “Nonstructural” BMPs use natural measures to reduce pollution levels, do not
require extensive construction efforts (e.g. policies or procedures such as enhanced street sweeping), and/or
promote pollutant reduction by eliminating the pollutant source.
EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL AUTHORITY: The Town of Canton Conservation Commission or its
authorized agent.
EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL METHODS PLAN: A document containing nNarrative, drawings, and details
developed by a qualified professional engineer (PE) or a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control
(CPESC) which includes best management practices or equivalent measures designed to control surface runoff,
erosion and sedimentation during pre-construction and construction related land disturbing activities in accordance
with requirements of this bylaw.
EROSION: The wearing away of the land surface by natural or artificial forces such as wind, water, ice, gravity, or
vehicle traffic and the subsequent detachment and transportation of soil particles.
GRADING: Changing the level or shape of the ground surface.
HOTSPOT: Land uses or activities with higher potential pollutant loadings, such as auto salvage yards, auto fueling
facilities, fleet storage yards, commercial parking lots with high intensity use, road salt storage areas, commercial
nurseries and landscaping, outdoor storage and loading areas of hazardous substances, or marinas.
LAND-DISTURBING ACTIVITY (also referred to as LAND DISTURBANCE, DISTURBANCE OF LAND and LAND
ALTERATION): Any activity that causes a change in the position or location of soil, sand, rock, gravel, or similar
earth material; results in an increased amount of runoff or pollutants; measurably changes the ability of a ground
surface to absorb waters, involves clearing (of soil, trees or vegetation) and grading, and/or results in an alteration
of drainage characteristics.
LOW IMPACT DESIGN (formerly Better Site Design): Site design approaches and techniques that can reduce a
site’s impact on the watershed through the use of nonstructural stormwater management practices. Also known as
environmentally sensitive design, low impact design includes conserving and protecting natural areas and
greenspace, reducing impervious cover, and using natural features for stormwater management.
MASSACHUSETTS STORMWATER MANAGEMENT STANDARDS: The Standards issued by the Massachusetts
Department of Environmental Protection, as further defined in the Massachusetts Stormwater Handbook, as
amended, that coordinates the requirements prescribed by state regulations promulgated under the authority of
the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act G.L. c. 131 § 40 and Massachusetts Clean Waters Act G.L. c. 21, §. 23-
56. The Standards address stormwater impacts through implementation of performance standards to reduce or
prevent pollutants from reaching water bodies and control the quantity of runoff from a site.
MAJOR STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PERMIT: Required prior to any construction activity or land
disturbance, including clearing, grading, excavation, or redevelopment that may result in the
disturbance of:
• 3,000 square feet or more of land area for all properties except Single Family Residential and
Two-Family Residential Properties,
• Exceptions as noted in Section 5.0(A) of the Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations.
MINOR STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PERMIT: Required prior to any construction activity of land
disturbance, including clearing, grading, excavation, or redevelopment that may result in the
disturbance of:
• 1,000 square feet or more of land area for Single Family and Two-Family Residential
Properties;
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
• 1,000 to 2,999 square feet of land area for all other properties;
• Exceptions as noted in Section 5.0(A) of the Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations
MS4 MUNICIPAL SEPARATE STORM SEWER SYSTEM (MS4) or MUNICIPAL STORM DRAIN SYSTEM: The system of
conveyances designed or used for collecting or conveying stormwater, including any road with a drainage system,
street, gutter, curb, inlet, piped storm drain, pumping facility, retention or detention basin, natural or man-made or
altered drainage channel, reservoir, and other drainage structure that together comprise the storm drainage
system owned or operated by the Town of Canton.
NEW DEVELOPMENT: Any construction or land disturbance of a parcel of land that is currently in a natural
vegetated state and does not contain alteration by man-made activities.
NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION: Pollution from many diffuse sources caused by rainfall or snowmelt moving over
and through the ground. As the runoff moves, it picks up and carries away natural and human-made pollutants,
finally depositing them into water resource areas.
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM (NPDES) STORMWATER DISCHARGE PERMIT: A permit
issued by United States Environmental Protection Agency or jointly with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts that
authorizes the discharge of pollutants to waters of the United States.
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PLAN: A plan setting up the functional, financial and organizational mechanisms
for the ongoing operation and maintenance of a stormwater management system in perpetuity to ensure that it
continues to function as designed.
PERSON: Any individual, group of individuals, association, partnership, corporation, company, business
organization, trust, estate, the Commonwealth or political subdivision thereof to the extent subject to Town
Bylaws, administrative agency, public or quasi-public corporation or body, the Town of Canton and any other legal
entity, its legal representatives, agents, or assigns.
POLLUTANT: Any element or property of sewage, agricultural, industrial or commercial waste, runoff, leachate,
heated effluent, or other matter, whether originating at a point or nonpoint source, that is or may be introduced
into any sewage treatment works, stormwater management system or facility, watercourse, or Waters of the
Commonwealth. Pollutants include, but are not limited to:
i. Paints, varnishes, and solvents;
ii. Oil and other automotive fluids;
iii. Nonhazardous liquid and solid wastes and yard wastes;
iv. Refuse, rubbish, garbage, litter, or other discarded or abandoned objects, ordnance, accumulations and
floatables;
v. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers;
vi. Hazardous materials and wastes;
vii. Sewage, fecal coliform and pathogens;
viii. Dissolved and particulate metals;
ix. Animal wastes;
x. Rock, sand, salt, soils;
xi. Construction wastes and residues; and
xii. Noxious or offensive matter of any kind.
PRE-CONSTRUCTION: All activities in preparation of construction.
PRE-DEVELOPMENT: The conditions that exist at the time that plans for the development of a tract of land are
submitted to the Canton Conservation Commission Stormwater Authority. Where phased development or plan
approval occurs (preliminary grading, roads and utilities, etc.), the existing conditions at the time prior to the first
plan submission shall establish pre-development conditions.
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
RECHARGE: The process by which groundwater is replenished by precipitation through the percolation of runoff and
surface into the soil. The process of replenishing groundwater through the infiltration of surface water,
such as precipitation or treated stormwater runoff, into the underlying soil and eventually reaching the
groundwater table.
REDEVELOPMENT: Development, rehabilitation, expansion, demolition, construction, land alteration, or phased
projects that disturb the ground surface, including impervious surfaces, on previously developed sites resulting in
the decrease of impervious surface area. The creation of new areas of impervious surface or new areas of land
disturbance on a site constitutes development, not redevelopment, even where such activities are part of a
common plan which also involves redevelopment. Redevelopment includes maintenance and improvement of
existing roadways including widening less than a single lane, adding shoulders, correcting substandard
intersections, improving existing drainage systems and repaving; and remedial projects specifically designed to
provide improved stormwater management such as projects to separate storm drains and sanitary sewers and
stormwater retrofit projects.
SEDIMENT: Mineral or organic soil material that is transported by wind or water, from its original to another
location; the product of erosion processes.
SEDIMENTATION: The process or act of deposition of sediment.
SITE: Any lot or parcel of land or area of property where land-disturbing activities are, were, or will be performed.
STORMWATER AUTHORITY: The Town of Canton Conservation Commission Superintendent of Public Works or
its their authorized agent(s). The Conservation Commission Superintendent of Public Works or their
authorized agent(s) is responsible for coordinating the review, approval and permit process as defined in this
Bylaw. Other Boards and/or departments participate in the review process as defined in the Stormwater
Management Rules and Regulations adopted by the Conservation Commission Board of Public Works.
Y. STORMWATER MANAGEMENT FEE: a charge for the use of the Stormwater Management Services.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND FACILITIES: Including, but not limited to, natural and
man-made channels, swales, ditches, rivers, streams, brooks, creeks, wetlands, branches, reservoirs,
ponds, drainageways, drainage structures, conveyances, storm drains, catch basins, inlets, gutters,
pipes, culverts, bridges, headwalls, storm sewers, lakes, outfalls, and other physical works, properties,
and improvements that collect, transport, transfer, control, pump, treat, convey, detain, retain, dispose
of, or otherwise influence the movement of stormwater runoff.
STORMWATER UTILITY: A specific management structure for the Stormwater Management Utility Fee, in which a
municipal utility is established to administer the fee for the Town to provide and the Stormwater Management
Program Services similar to a water or sewer utility. Refer to the Canton Stormwater Utility Rules and
Regulations.
STORMWATER UTILITY FEE: The periodic user fee imposed by the Town of Canton for providing
stormwater management services. Refer to the Canton Stormwater Utility Rules and Regulations.
WATERS OF THE COMMONWEALTH: All waters within the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth, including, without
limitation, rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, springs, impoundments, estuaries, wetlands, coastal waters, groundwater,
and Waters of the United States as defined under the Federal Clean Water Act as hereafter amended.
9. SEVERABILITY
The invalidity of any section, provision, paragraph, sentence, or clause of this Bylaw shall not invalidate any other
section, provision, paragraph, sentence, or clause thereof, nor shall it invalidate any permit or determination that
previously has been issued.
Or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article XXI STORMWATER MANAGEMENT be amended as presented
in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 33
AMEND GENERAL BYLAW ARTICLE XXIII STRETCH ENERGY CODE (SPECIALIZED ENERGY CODE)
Article 33 To see if the Town will vote to amend General Bylaw Article XXIII to change the code to Specialized
Energy Code by adding and deleting language as outlined in the following with new language in bold and language
to be deleted in strikethrough.
ARTICLE XXIII STRETCH SPECIALIZED ENERGY CODE
6. DEFINITIONS The terms below shall have the following meanings for the purposes of this Article XXIII.
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) – The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) is a
building energy code created by the International Code Council. It is a model code adopted by many state
and municipal governments in the United States for the establishment of minimum design and
construction requirements for energy efficiency, and is updated on a three-year cycle. The baseline energy
conservation requirements of the MA State Building Code are the IECC with Massachusetts amendments,
as approved by the Board of Building Regulations and Standards.
SPECIALIZED ENERGY CODE- Codified by the entirety of 225 CMR 22 and 23 including
Appendices RC and CC, the Specialized Energy Code adds residential and commercial
appendices to the Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code, based on amendments to the respective
net-zero appendices of the (IECC) to incorporate the energy efficiency of the Stretch Energy
Code and further reduce the climate impacts of buildings built to this code, with the goal of
achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from the buildings sector no later than 2050
Stretch Energy Code – Codified by 225 CMR 22 and 23, not including Appendices RC and CC, the
Stretch Energy Code is a comprehensive set of amendments to the IECC seeking to achieve all
lifecycle cost-effective energy efficiency in accordance with the Green Communities Act of
2008, as well as to reduce the climate impacts of buildings built to this code.
2. PURPOSE The purpose of 780 CMR 115.AA the Specialized Energy Code 225 CMR 22 and 23 including
Appendices RC and CC, is to provide a more energy efficient alternative to the Stretch Energy Code or the
Base Energy Code, applicable to the relevant sections of the Building Code for both new construction and existing
buildings.
3. APPLICABILITY The Stretch Specialized Energy Code applies to residential and commercial buildings. Buildings
not included in this scope shall comply with 780 CMR 13, 34, 51, as applicable.
4. STRETCH CODE The Stretch Code, as codified by the Board of Building Regulations and Standards as 780 CMR
Appendix 115.AA, including any future editions, amendments or modifications, is herein incorporated by reference
into these General Bylaws, Article XXIII.
4. SPECIALIZED ENERGY CODE The Specialized Energy Code, as codified by the entirety of 225
CMR 22 and 23 including Appendices RC and CC, and also including any future editions, amendments,
or modifications, is herein incorporated by reference into the Town of Canton General Bylaws, Article
XXIII.
5. ENFORCEMENT The Stretch Specialized Energy Code is enforceable by the Building Commissioner.
6. Effective DATE This chapter and by its incorporation herein, the Specialized Energy Code, 225 CMR
22 and 23 including Appendices RC and CC, shall take effect in the Town of Canton with an effective
date of January 1, 2027, subject to the provisions of MGL Chapter 40, Section 32.
Or take any other action related thereto.
This Article serves two purposes. One, to modernize, clarify, consolidate and eliminate redundancies in the Town’s
current Energy Building Code and General Bylaws. Secondly, the addition of Specialized Code, while only
58Source page 60
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
applicable to new construction and without replacing the existing Base and Stretch Code, greatly increases both
energy efficiency in new buildings construction and consumer choice, ensuring consumer protection through energy
affordability and avoiding costly future retrofits.
Select Board for the Sustainability Climate Action Plan Committee
Select Board of Discussion: The Select Board does not support this article at this time due to concerns about
potential unintended consequences associated with adopting the Specialized Energy Code. While the goals of
increased energy efficiency are recognized, the Board is concerned that the additional requirements may
significantly increase construction costs, which could discourage new development and negatively impact future
economic growth in the Town. Additionally, the Select Board believes there has not yet been sufficient public
education and community discussion regarding the full costs, benefits, and implications of adopting the Specialized
Energy Code. For these reasons, the Board recommends further outreach and evaluation before considering
adoption. Vote 2-0-3
MOVED: That General Bylaw Article XXIII be amended to change the Stretch Energy Code to
Specialized Energy Code by adding and deleting language as presented in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 34
VOTE TO ACCEPT STILLWATER ROAD TOWN WAY
ARTICLE 34 To see if the Town will vote to accept Stillwater Road as a Town way, as recommended by the
Planning Board and laid out by the Select Board pursuant to G. L. c. 41 and c. 82; as shown on a plan entitled
“Final As-Built Road Utility Plan for Canton Reserve (Stillwater Estates) in Canton, Massachusetts prepared for Toll
Brothers, Inc., dated January 16, 2024; and revised on January 23, 2025 and prepared by ESE Consultants, 116
Flanders Road, Suite 1200, Westborough, MA 01581” (hereinafter referred to as “Acceptance Plan”); to authorize
the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain such land and easements for the creation,
maintenance and operation of a public way, including but not limited to easements for access, grading, drainage,
sloping, construction and utilities, in all or any portions of such way and the parcels on such street, including, but
not limited to the parcels listed below; to see if the Town will vote to appropriate, borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or transfer from available funds, a sum of money for such purposes; and further to authorize the
Select Board to take any and all related actions necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article;
or to take any other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
5 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 110
10 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 93
15 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 109
20 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 94
25 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 108
30 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 95
35 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 107
40 Stillwater Rd Map 101 – Lot 96
45 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 105
50 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 97
55 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 106
60 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 98
65 Stillwater Rd. Map 90 – Lot 44
70 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 99
75 Stillwater Rd. Map 90 – Lot 43
80 Stillwater Rd. Map 101 – Lot 100
85 Stillwater Rd. Map 100 – Lot 183
Select Board
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
MOVED:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 35
VOTE TO ACCEPT FOUNDRY LANE AS A TOWN WAY
ARTICLE 35 To see if the Town will vote to accept Foundry Lane as a Town way, as recommended by the Planning
Board and laid out by the Select Board pursuant to G. L. c. 41 and c. 82; as shown on a plan entitled “Final As-Built
Road Utility Plan for Canton Reserve (Stillwater Estates) in Canton, Massachusetts prepared for Toll Brothers, Inc.,
dated January 16, 2024; and revised on January 23, 2025 and prepared by ESE Consultants, 116 Flanders Road,
Suite 1200, Westborough, MA 01581” (hereinafter referred to as “Acceptance Plan”); to authorize the Select Board
to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain such land and easements for the creation, maintenance and
operation of a public way, including but not limited to easements for access, grading, drainage, sloping,
construction and utilities, in all or any portions of such way and the parcels on such street, including, but not
limited to the parcels listed below; to see if the Town will vote to appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable
statute or transfer from available funds, a sum of money for such purposes; and further to authorize the Select
Board take any and all related actions necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article; or to take
any other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
5 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 39
10 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 40
15 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 38
20 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 41
25 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 37
30 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 42
35 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 36
40 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 43
45 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 35
50 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 44
55 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 34
60 Foundry Lane Map 90 – Lot 38
65 Foundry Lane Map 89 – Lot 33
70 Foundry Lane Map 101 – Lot 101
75 Foundry Lane Map 89 - Lot 32
80 Foundry Lane Map 101 – Lot 102
85 Foundry Lane Map 100 – Lot 183
90 Foundry Lane Map 101 – Lot 103
100 Foundry Lane Map 101 – Lot 104
Select Board
MOVED:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 36
VOTE TO ACCEPT DALEBROOK COURT AS A TOWN WAY
ARTICLE 36 To see if the Town will vote to accept Dalebrook Court as a Town way, as recommended by the
Planning Board and laid out by the Select Board pursuant to G. L. c. 41 and c. 82; as shown on a plan entitled
“Final As-Built Road Utility Plan for Canton Reserve (Stillwater Estates) in Canton, Massachusetts prepared for Toll
Brothers, Inc., dated January 16, 2024; and revised on January 23, 2025 and prepared by ESE Consultants, 116
Flanders Road, Suite 1200, Westborough, MA 01581” (hereinafter referred to as “Acceptance Plan”); to authorize
the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain such land and easements for the creation,
maintenance and operation of a public way, including but not limited to easements for access, grading, drainage,
sloping, construction and utilities, in all or any portions of such way and the parcels on such street, including, but
not limited to the parcels listed below; to see if the Town will vote to appropriate, borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or transfer from available funds, a sum of money for such purposes; and further to authorize the
Select Board to take any and all related actions necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article;
or to take any other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
5 Dalebrook Ct. Map 90 – Lot 42
10 Dalebrook Ct. Map 90 – Lot 39
15 Dalebrook Ct. Map 90 – Lot 41
20 Dalebrook Ct. Map 90 – Lot 40
Select Board
MOVED:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 37
VOTE TO ACCEPT STONEWOOD DRIVE AS A TOWN WAY
ARTICLE 37 To see if the Town will vote to accept Stonewood Drive as a Town way, as recommend by the
Planning Board and laid out by the Select Board pursuant to G. L. c. 41 and c. 82; as shown on a plan entitled
“Street Acceptance & As-Built Plan in Canton, Massachusetts, Stonewood Drive, prepared for Stonewood Realty
Trust, dated February 2, 2024, prepared by Borderland Engineering, 61b Pleasant Street, Randolph, MA 02021”
(hereinafter referred to as “Acceptance Plan’); to authorize the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent
domain such land and easements for the creation, maintenance and operation of a public way, including but not
limited to easements for access, grading, drainage, sloping, construction and utilities, in all or any portions of such
61Source page 63
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
way and the parcels on such street, including, but not limited to the parcels listed below; to see if the Town will
vote to appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable statue or transfer from available funds, a sum of money for
such purposes; and further to authorize the Select Board to take any and all related actions necessary to carry out
the purposes of this article; or take any other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
12 Stonewood Dr. Map 110 – Lot 31
16 Stonewood Dr. Map 110 – Lot 75
17 Stonewood Dr. Map 110 – Lot 32
20 Stonewood Dr. Map 110 – Lot 54
25 Stonewood Dr. Map 110 – Lot 58
30 Stonewood Dr. Map 110 – Lot 55
35 Stonewood Dr. Map 110 – Lot 57
40 Stonewood Dr. Map 110 – Lot 56
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 37 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
Suggested Discussion
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: Petitioner Rossano Crugnale and Stonewood Realty Trust has
requested that their Petition to have Stonewood Drive in Yorkshire Estates accepted as a public way be withdrawn
without prejudice with the intent to refile for the next Town Meeting.
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 38
VOTE TO ACCEPT ISABELLA CIRCLE AS A TOWN WAY
ARTICLE 38 To see if the Town will vote to accept Isabella Circle as a Town way, as recommend by the Planning
Board and laid out by the Select Board pursuant to G. L. c. 41 and c. 82; as shown on a plan entitled “Street
Acceptance & As-Built Plan in Canton, Massachusetts, Isabella Circle, prepared for Stonewood Realty Trust, dated
February 2, 2024, prepared by Borderland Engineering, 61b Pleasant Street, Randolph, MA 02021” (hereinafter
referred to as “Acceptance Plan’); to authorize the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain
such land and easements for the creation, maintenance and operation of a public way, including but not limited to
easements for access, grading, drainage, sloping, construction and utilities, in all or any portions of such way and
the parcels on such street, including, but not limited to the parcels listed below; to see if the Town will vote to
appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable statue or transfer from available funds, a sum of money for such
purposes; and further to authorize the Select Board to take any and all related actions necessary to carry out the
purposes of this article; or take any other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
5 Isabella Cir. Map 110 – Lot 59
15 Isabella Cir. Map 110 – Lot 60
25 Isabella Cir. Map 110 – Lot 61
35 Isabella Cir. Map 110 – Lot 62
45 Isabella Cir. Map 110 – Lot 63
55 Isabella Cir. Map 110 – Lot 64
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 38 be indefinitely postponed.
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
Suggested Discussion:
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: Petitioner Rossano Crugnale and Stonewood Realty Trust has
requested that their Petition to have Isabella Circle in Yorkshire Estates accepted as a public way be withdrawn
without prejudice with the intent to refile for the next Town Meeting.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 39
VOTE TO ACCEPT HOLLY WAY AS A TOWN WAY
ARTICLE 39 To see if the Town will vote to accept Holly Way as a Town way, as recommend by the Planning Board
and laid out by the Select Board pursuant to G. L. c. 41 and c. 82; as shown on a plan entitled “Street Acceptance
& As-Built Plan in Canton, Massachusetts, Holly Way, prepared for Stonewood Realty Trust, dated February 2,
2024, prepared by Borderland Engineering, 61b Pleasant Street, Randolph, MA 02021” (hereinafter referred to as
“Acceptance Plan’); to authorize the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain such land and
easements for the creation, maintenance and operation of a public way, including but not limited to easements for
access, grading, drainage, sloping, construction and utilities, in all or any portions of such way and the parcels on
such street, including, but not limited to the parcels listed below; to see if the Town will vote to appropriate,
borrow pursuant to any applicable statue or transfer from available funds, a sum of money for such purposes; and
further to authorize the Select Board to take any and all related actions necessary to carry out the purposes of this
article; or take any other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
5 Holly Way Map 110 – Lot 65
10 Holly Way Map 110 – Lot 70
15 Holly Way Map 110 – Lot 66
20 Holly Way Map 110 – Lot 69
25 Holly Way Map 110 – Lot 67
35 Holly Way Map 110 – Lot 68
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 39 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
Suggested Discussion:
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: Petitioner Rossano Crugnale and Stonewood Realty Trust has
requested that their Petition to have Holly Way in Yorkshire Estates accepted as a public way be
withdrawn without prejudice with the intent to refile for the next Town Meeting.
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
ARTICLE 40
RESCIND PRIOR VOTE TAKEN ON ARTICLE 38 OF 2006 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Article 40 To see if the Town will vote to rescind and revoke the action taken under Article 38 of the 2006 Annual
Town Meeting to accept the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 31, Section 58A, as inserted by
Chapter 242 of the Acts of 2000, establishing that applicants for original appointment(s) to the Police and Fire
Departments must be under the age of thirty-two (32) years on the date of appointment, and such that revocation
be effective on July 1, 2026 or take any further action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 40 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Fire and Police Chiefs have withdrawn this article so that the Town
can complete its collective bargaining obligations with the public safety unions.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED___________
ARTICLE 41
ACCEPT MGL CH. 31 § 61A AND 61B
Article 41 To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 31,
Sections 61A and 61B as amended, for the purpose of establishing health and fitness standards and a wellness
program for Police and Fire personnel in order to allow the Town to hire Police and Fire personnel without an age
restriction pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 31, Section 58, or take any other action related
thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 41 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: This article which is linked to Article 40, has been withdrawn so that the
Town can complete its collective bargaining obligations with the public safety unions.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 42
ACCEPT MGL CH. 44 SECTION 53F ½ ENTERPRISE FUNDS
Article 42 To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44 Section
53F ½ as amended, for the purpose of authorizing Town to operate within enterprise funds to be maintained by the
treasurer, or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the provisions of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 44 Section 53F ½ as
amended, for the purpose of authorizing Town to operate within enterprise funds to be maintained by
the treasurer, be accepted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
64Source page 66
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
ARTICLE 43
AMEND ZONING BYLAW SECTION 8.1 ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
Article 43 To see if the Town will vote to amend Zoning Bylaw Section 8.1 as follows, with new language
underlined and in bold and deleted language in strikethrough.
8.1 ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
8.1.1 Purpose.
1. To provide for housing options that reduce maintenance costs and are more affordable than traditional
single-family dwellings;
2. To provide a mechanism for development of a range of housing types that are responsive to the
sociocultural, health care, and recreational needs of residents;
3. To use energy, water, and materials more efficiently by increasing the housing supply through
concentrated, small-scale development;
4. To establish residential development standards and procedures that will support these objectives; and
5. To facilitate housing production, diversity, and affordability in the Town’s neighborhoods.
8.1.2 Limitations on Use. One Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) shall be allowed as-of-right in all zoning districts
in which single-family homes are allowed as-of-right or by Special Permit, subject to the following
restrictions:
A. The ADU maintains a separate entrance, either directly from the outside or through an entry hall or
corridor shared with the principal dwelling sufficient to meet the requirements of the state building
code for safe egress.
C B. The ADU is not larger in gross floor area than one half (1/2) the gross floor area of the principal
dwelling or 900 square feet, whichever is smaller;
B. The ADU is subject to dimensional setbacks as the primary residence, as provided in Section 4.0 of
this Zoning By-Law
D C. No ADU shall be constructed without issuance of a building permit by the Building Commissioner;
and
E D. No use of an accessory apartment shall be permitted prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy
by the Building Commissioner. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued after the Building Commissioner
determines that the accessory apartment as constructed is in conformity with the approved plans and with
the provisions of this by-law.
8.1.3 Additional Accessory Dwelling Units. The Board of Appeals may issue a Special Permit for additional
ADUs over and above the first ADU allowed as-of-right on a lot.
8.1.4 Exterior Appearance of a Dwelling with an ADU. The ADU shall be designed so that the appearance
of the structure remains that of a single family dwelling the principle structure, subject further to the
following requirements:
A. All stairways to second or third stories shall be enclosed within the exterior walls of the dwelling;
B. Any new, additional entrance to an existing dwelling shall be located on the side or in the rear of
the dwelling; and
C. Where there are two (2) or more existing entrances on the front facade of a dwelling, if
modifications are made to any entrance, the result shall be that one (1) appears to be the
principal entrance and other entrances appear to be secondary.
8.1.5 Dimensional Requirements. Accessory Dwelling Units shall be subject to all applicable dimensional
requirements in Section 4.0 of the Town of Canton Zoning By-Laws.8.1.6 Parking.
A. There shall be one (1) off-street parking space per ADU in addition to the parking spaces that are
required by the underlying zoning district for the Principle Use;
B. No additional parking spaces shall be required if the ADU is located within 0.5 miles from a
commuter rail station, subway station, ferry terminal, or bus station;
C. A single driveway shall serve both the residential structure primary use and the ADU, provided
that a detached ADU may have a separate parking area.
8.1.7 Severability. If any provision of this Section 8.1 Accessory Dwelling Units is found to be invalid by a court
of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of Section 8.1 shall not be affected but shall remain in full force. The
invalidity of any provision of this Section shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the Town of Canton’s
Zoning By-Law, or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Planning Board
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The public hearing for Article 43 was held by the Planning Board on February
18, 2026. The Town Planner introduced the article and explained the proposed changes. This article proposes to
amend the text in Section 8.1. The text changes are to align the bylaw with the Promulgated Guidelines of the
Affordable Homes Act. The Board clarified that the dimensional requirements were not being altered and took a
vote to close the public hearing and send a positive recommendation, with the following changes, to Town Meeting,
which carried 5-0-0.
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law, Section 8.1, be amended as set forth in the Warrant with the
clerical correction of changing the spelling of the word principle to p-r-i-n-c-i-p-a-l wherever it appears.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 44
AMEND ZONING BYLAW SECTION 11.0 DEFINITIONS
Article 44 To see if the Town will vote to amend Zoning Bylaw Section 11.0 as follows, with new language
underlined and in bold and deleted language in strikethrough.
11.0 DEFINITIONS
Accessory Dwelling Unit: A secondary dwelling unit, but not a mobile home, located either within or on the same
lot as a principle dwelling. The accessory dwelling unit shall be subordinate in size to the principal dwelling unit
and separated from it in a manner that maintains the appearance of the structure. Or to take any other action
related thereto.
Select Board for the Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The public hearing for Article 44 was held by the Planning Board on February
18, 2026. The Town Planner introduced the article and explained the proposed changes. This article proposes to
amend the text in Section 8.1. The text changes are to align Section 11.0 (Definitions) with the Promulgated
Guidelines of the Affordable Homes Act. The Board had no questions and took a vote to close the public hearing
and send a positive recommendation to Town Meeting, which carried 5-0-0.
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law, Section 11.0, be amended as set forth in the Warrant.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
66Source page 68
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 45
AMEND ZONING MAP OF CANTON BY REMOVING CCEOD A
Article 45 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Canton, Massachusetts by
removing the “Canton Center Economic Opportunity District A” or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The public hearing for Article 45 was held by the Planning Board on February
18, 2026. The Town Planner introduced the article and explained the proposed changes. This article proposes to
amend the Zoning Map by removing the Canton Center Opportunity District A. The Town had previously removed
the Zoning Text allowed for this District. The Board had no questions and took a vote to close the public hearing
and send a positive recommendation to Town Meeting, which carried 5-0-0.
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning Map be amended as set forth in the Warrant.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 46
AMEND ZONING MAP OF CANTON BY REMOVING CCEOD B
Article 46 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Canton, Massachusetts by
removing the “Canton Center Economic Opportunity District B” or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The public hearing for Article 46 was held by the Planning Board on February
18, 2026. The Town Planner introduced the article and explained the proposed changes. This article proposes to
amend the Zoning Map by removing the Canton Center Opportunity District B. The Town had previously removed
the Zoning Text allowed for this district. The Board had no questions and took a vote to close the public hearing
and send a positive recommendation to Town Meeting, which carried 5-0-0.
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning Map be amended as set forth in the Warrant.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
67Source page 69
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 47
AMEND ZONING MAP OF CANTON BY REMOVING CCEOD C
Article 47 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Canton, Massachusetts by
removing the “Canton Center Economic Opportunity District C” or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION The public hearing for Article 47 was held by the Planning Board on
February 18, 2026. The Town Planner introduced the article and explained the proposed changes. This article
proposes to amend the Zoning Map by removing the Canton Center Opportunity District C. The Town had
previously removed the Zoning Text allowed for this district. The Board had no questions and took a vote to close
the public hearing and send a positive recommendation to Town Meeting, which carried 5-0-0.
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning Map be amended as set forth in the Warrant.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
68Source page 70
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
ARTICLE 48
APPROPRIATE FUNDS TO MEET EXPENSES FOR NEXT FISCAL YEAR (FY27)
Article 48 To see what sums of money the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from Free Cash, transfer
from any available funds or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute to meet the expenses of the next fiscal year
starting July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027 for the various Town Boards, Committees, Departments and Agencies,
or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Article 48 – MOTION 1
MOVED: That the following sums of money be transferred to the General Fund in Fiscal Year
2027 in order to fund the Town’s annual operating budget:
Vote to Transfer Available Funds
WITH A VOTE THAT $5,997,203 BE TRANSFERRED AS FOLLOWS:
TRANSFER FROM AMOUNT PURPOSE
AMBULANCE SERVICE $1,235,312 FIRE DEPARTMENT
WATER ENTERPRISE FUND 901,002 FIXED COSTS
GMS FEASABILITY REIMBURSEMENT ACCOUNT 738,565 DEBT SERVICE
PLYMOUTH RUBBER DIF FUND 674,317 DEBT SERVICE
SOLAR FACILITY 620,334 TOWN-WIDE ELECTRICITY
SEWER ENTERPRISE FUND 593,105 FIXED COSTS
AMBULANCE SERVICE 336,880 DEBT SERVICE
BOND PREMIUM FUND 299,950 DEBT SERVICE
SCHOOL FOOD SERVICE 200,000 SCHOOL COSTS
DENTAL INSURANCE TRUST FUND 200,000 DENTAL INSURANCE COSTS
UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS TRUST FUND 100,000 UNEMPLOYMENT COSTS
RINK ENTERPRISE FUND 43,222 FIXED COSTS
GREENLODGE STREET PARKING FEES 33,000 EXECUTIVE OFFICE
SALE OF LOTS/GRAVES 10,000 CEMETERY MAINTENANCE
BOND PREMIUM FUND 6,517 DEBT SERVICE
CEMETERY PERPETUAL CARE (EXPENDABLE) 5,000 CEMETERY MAINTENANCE
TOTAL $5,997,203
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
Article 48 – MOTION 1
DISCUSSION: This is a procedural motion to transfer funds from various sources to partially fund the
general operating budget.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
Article 48 – MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following sums of money be transferred to the General Fund in Fiscal Year 2027
in order to fund the Town’s annual operating budget:
Vote to Transfer Available Funds
(Requires a 2/3rds majority vote)
WITH A VOTE THAT $183,083 BE TRANSFERRED AS FOLLOWS:
TRANSFER FROM AMOUNT PURPOSE
GMS CAPITAL STABILIZATION ACCOUNT $183,083 DEBT SERVICE
TOTAL $183,083
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
Article 48 – MOTION 2
DISCUSSION: This is a procedural motion to transfer funds from various sources to partially fund the
general operating budget.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
Article 48 – MOTION 3
MOVED: That the salaries and compensation for elected officials for the fiscal year beginning
July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, be fixed as follows:
Town Clerk $132,289 Department 161
Board of Assessors $7,200 ($2,400 for each member) Department 141
Board of Health $1,800 ($600 for each member) Department 510
Select Board $7,200 ($1,400 for each member, addl. $200 Department 129
to chairperson)
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
Article 48 – MOTION 3
DISCUSSION:
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
Article 48 – MOTION 4
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
MOVED: That the following sums of money listed in the Finance Committee Request Column of the
Operating Budget by Voting Category and Enterprise Funds tables be raised and appropriated from the
FY 2027 tax levy and other general revenues of the Town along with revenue sources listed in Motions
1 and 2.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
Article 48 – MOTION 4
Draft Discussion based on last year’s discussion.
DISCUSSION: Please see the Finance Committee Report to the Town of Canton for ATM 2026 at the front of this
warrant for a discussion of the FY 2027 operating budget.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
71Source page 73
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
INSERT BUDGET REPORTS
72Source page 74
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
INSERT CAPITAL 5 YEAR PLAN
73Source page 75
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
74Source page 76
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 11, 2026
75