Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text
Canton Town Meeting — 2006 ATM
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 B. To provide additional planning flexibility for projects located in Canton Center, including enhancing the coordination of the project with the environmental and natural features of the development site, including: Development of parks and open spaces on Common Open Land, which would be available for use by the general public. Protection, enhancement, and adaptive reuse of historical significant buildings as required by the Canton Historical Commission and the State Historical Commission. Protection and enhancement of the natural environment, including rivers, waterways, and wildlife corridors, as required by the Canton Conservation Commission, DEP and NHP. The revitalization plan must be sensitively designed and constructed to avoid the disruption of wildlife. Provide public access and walking trails along waterways, connections to the MBTA train stations and to Canton Center. Protection of scenic vistas as advised by the Canton Trails Commission. C. To encourage mixed-use development, including but not limited to, offices, retail shops, and multi-family housing. No more than sixty percent (60%) of the non-residential uses can be office. Mixed use development include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: Mid- and small scale, town center-oriented development in according to prescribed review and approval procedures, and according to design standards that are particular to the CCEOD Residential Area "C". Multi-family and/or town house dwellings, including rental units and/or condominiums, and dwellings/units for individuals fifty-five (55) years of age or older pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws c. 151B. Low and/or moderate income housing as defined pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40B Sections 20-23 and the regulations promulgated thereunder. . Senior Housing including Independent Living Facilities, Institutional Living Facilities (Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities), and ancillary facilities and amenities. Museums, farmers markets, and cultural establishments, small business incubator space, artist studio and galleries, artist housing, open space and river access, community gathering space, indoor and outdoor performance space. D. To permit the use of new development standards which will promote the desired changes in Canton Center and to provide information on the potential impacts of a proposed development that include, but are not limited to, the following: . A mix of commercial and residential uses that help to contain traffic within the revitalization area and by so doing limit impacts to residential portions of the community. - 41 -
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 . To enable the Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA) to require adherence to "Site Development and Use Plans" in the granting of a special permit. . Creates regulatory procedures to determining appropriate locations for uses defined herein. Provide for development in a manner that strives to maintain and enhance the existing character of the CCEOD Revitalization District "C" and nearby neighborhoods, creates a harmony between residential and non-residential neighborhoods, encourages redevelopment of industrially used parcels to residential and/or mixed-use ones, protects existing abutting neighborhoods, and minimizes the development impact on nearby neighborhoods, while striving to conserve environmental features, woodlands, wet areas, the Canton River, open spaces and areas of scenic views, beauty, and vistas such as the Viaduct. E. Master Plan and Report The document entitled "Planning Brief for a Canton Center Economic Opportunity District - Revitalization Area "C" Zoning By-Law, Canton Massachusetts", prepared for the Canton Planning Board by the Canton Planning Department and dated August 15, 2005 is incorporated by reference in this Section 5.63 The applicant will prepare a Master Plan and Report in conformity with the requirements of the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" objectives, standards, and criteria. If the landowner elects to file a development plan on a portion of a single contiguous tract of land, the applicant shall prepare a Master Plan and Report for the entire contiguous tract of land. The Master Plan will describe conditions prior to and on completion of both the proposed project. Environmental issues to be addressed include water quality, pollution of groundwater, damage or threat to wetlands, flood plains, and plants and animals. The applicant will prepare Site Plans in conformity with the Planning Board Rules and Regulations. The Site Plan will furnish information consistent with the information required by the Planning Board for approval of a subdivision. The Board of Appeals mav arant a Special permit under this Section only if it finds the following: 1. That the proposed project will be in harmony with the general purpose of the bylaw and the requirements of General Laws, Chapter 40A, and the long range Open Space Plan of the town, either directly through development of the proposed project or by means of amenities or mitigation (including without limitation areas of Common Open Land) offered by or for the benefit of the applicant or project; that it will not have a detrimental impact on the neighborhood, will be designed with due consideration for health and safety, enhancing or preserving open space or substituting deed restricted open space for undeveloped space, minimizing environmental disruption to the extent reasonably possible, or allowing for more efficient provision of services and traffic circulation. 2. That the project, either directly through development of the proposed project or by means of amenities or mitigation offered by or for the benefit of the applicant or project (including without limitation areas of Common Open Land) enhances critical environmental areas such as: 2.1 Land abutting rivers, brooks and/or ponds of significant public interest, which enhances or protects wetlands or flood plains, or which provide public access to the water body, or which enhance or provide scenic vistas or views, or which provide water-related recreation opportunities; - 42-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 2.2 Land which provides a significant wildlife habitat or which is a unique natural area; and 2.3 Groundwater Protection District and/or land which provides recharge to Canton's current or future wells and highly favored aquifer areas. 3. That the "Common Open Land" and other open land protects critical environmental areas and provides a valuable outdoor recreation resource: 3.1 Common Open Land or open land which is to be developed for active or passive recreational uses; 3.2 Land which preserves existing trail networks or land on which new trails will be developed. New trails will be developed as part of the development for integration into existing and proposed trail networks; 3.3 Land which enhances scenic views; and 3.4 Land providing desirable public access to existing or proposed recreational or conservation land. 4. That any land intended to be conveyed to, or restricted for the benefit of the Town of Canton, as part of or in connection with the project: 4.1 Enhances or protection of critical environmental areas, unique natural features, scenic vistas, or potential open space; 4.2 Provides a valuable addition to the open space resources of the Town; 4.3 Provides for a more efficient use of the land in harmony with its natural features; 4.4 provides for creativity in the design of developments through a carefully controlled process; 4.5 Provides a less sprawling form of development, a shorter network of streets and utilities, more economic development of land with less consumption of open space; 4.6 Permanently preserves natural topography and wooded areas within or in the vicinity of development areas and/or preserves usable open space close to homes; and 4.7 Provides an efficient procedure to ensure appropriate high quality design and site planning to enhance the neighborhoods in which they occue and to the Town as a whole. 5. That the design or redesign of buildings shall acknowledge and respect the surrounding existing pattern of development, open space, and natural resources, such as the Canton River and Viaduct, and Canton Center: 5.1 Promote the thoughtful design or redesign of buildings; 5.2 Enhance the open space between existing and proposed buildings; 5.3 Promote the visual and functional quality of Canton Center; 5.4 Promote bicycles and pedestrian trails; and 5.5 Provides pedestrian links to Canton Center and the existing MBTA train stations (Canton Junction and Canton Center). 5.63.2 Definitions For the special purposes of this Section 5.63, the following words and phrases shall have the meaning hereinafter indicated: Applicant: The person or persons, including without limitation a corporation or other legal entity, who applies for issuance of a special permit for construction of an CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" project, hereunder. Buffer: An area within the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" adjacent to the boundaries, streams, rivers, ponds, which may not be developed except as provided herein. Building Height: Building height shall be measured as set forth in the state Building Code 780 CMR. - 43 -
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 Buildable Lot Area: A "Buildable Lot Area" shall be a single continuous tract of land located entirely within Priority Revitalization Area "C" and which is contiguous with any required frontage. Development Schedule: A schedule showing the order and timing of construction and the sequence of the improvements to be built or finished in the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" site, separated into stages where applicable. Common Open Land: Any such area of land containing no building, structure, parking areas, driveways or roadways, or only those reasonably deemed to enhance recreational use of such land, or which have historic or aesthetic significance or otherwise add to the sense of place. Professional Office: The office of one skilled in an occupation that primary services clients or patients rather than customers including, but not limited to, the office of a lawyer, doctor, dentist, architect, engineer, landscape architect, real estate agent, insurance agent, or the studio of an artist, musician, or teacher, or the workroom of a dressmaker, milliner, or photographer in which retail sales are incidental to office use. Regulations: The applicable rules and regulations of the Board of Appeals relative to Special Permits. The Zoning Board of Appeals, as the Special Permit Granting Authority, reserves the right to modify and/or wave any and all requirements described in this section. 5.63.3 Scope of Authority Revitalization Area "C" shall not restrict the owner's rights relative to the underlying zoning districts. However, if the owner elects to file for a special permit under Revitalization Area "C", the development shall conform to the requirements of Section 5.63 Priority Revitalization Area "C". If the landowner selects to file a development plan in conformance with the requirements of the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" on a portion of a single continuous tract of land the entire continuous tract of land shall conform to the objectives, standards, and criteria specified by the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" overlay zoning by-law. The landowner shall be prohibited from filing a development plan in conformance with the requirements of the underlying zoning district on any portion of such a continuous tract of land. 5.63.4 Special Permit Granting Authority The Board of Appeals is hereby designated as the Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA) for all purposes under Section 5.63 Priority Revitalization Area "C". All special permit applications shall conform to the standards and criteria of this Section and the Board of Appeals Rules and Regulations governing the administration of applications for special permits. Under section 5.63 Priority Revitalization Area "C", no building shall be constructed or externally enlarged, and no use shall be expanded in ground area, or established in an existing building except in conformity with a Site Development and Use Plan that bears the endorsement of approval by the Board of Appeals. Requirements and Procedures for approval shall be in accordance with Article III. Section 3.0 Site Plan Approvals. For sites in excess of five (5) acres, Site Development and Use Plans may indicate development in phases. Construction or operations under a building permit or a special permit shall conform to any subsequent amendment of the Zoning By-law, unless the use or construction is commenced within a period of not less than six months after the issuance of the permit and such construction is continued through to completion as continuously and expeditiously as in reasonable. Any appeal or litigation concerning the subject development shall extend said six month period while such appeal or litigation is pending. Prior to the Canton Building Commissioner issuing any occupancy permit, the developer must certify to the Building Commissioner that all open space and recreation improvements (of a particular phase of the project, if the Site Development and Use Plan permits phasing) required by the approved "Site Development and Use Plan" are at least ninety (90) percent complete and that all open space and - 44-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 recreation improvements (required in that phase of the project, if the Site Development and Use Plan permits phasing) will be one hundred (100) percent complete within 180 days of the issuance of the first occupancy permit (for such phase). 5.63.5 Objectives In addition to the specific criteria contained within this section, the SPGA shall issue a special permit for development within Revitalization Area "C" only after consideration of the following: A. Adequacy of the site in terms of the size of the proposed use(s); B. Adequacy of the provision of open space, its accessibility to the general public, and/or its association with adjacent or proximate open space areas; C. Suitability of the site for the proposed use(s); D. Impact on traffic and pedestrian flow and safety; E. Impact on the visual character of the neighborhood; F. Adequacy of utilities, including sewage disposal, water supply and storm water drainage; and G. Degree to which the proposed project complies with the goals of the Canton Center Revitalization Plan and the provisions of this section. 5.63.6 Uses Permitted Within Priority Revitalization Area "C", the Board of Appeals may issue a special permit for the project including but not limited to one or more of the following uses: A. Multi-family and/or townhouse dwellings, including rental units and/or condominiums, including: Multi-family housing for individuals fifty-five (55) years of age or older pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws c. 151B. Low and/or moderate income housing as defined pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40B Sections 20-23 and the regulations promulgated thereunder. . Senior Housing including Independent Living Facilities, Institutional Living Facilities (Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities), and ancillary facilities and amenities. Multi-family Houses and or Town Houses and ancillary facilities and amenities. At least five percent (5%) of all Multi-family/town House units created under the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" overlay zoning by-law shall contain three or more bedrooms. B. Mid-to small-scale town-center retail stores and offices including salesrooms and showrooms, consumer service establishments, business and professional offices, executive and administrative offices, banks and other institutions. Mid-to small scale shall mean that the maximum size of a retail store shall be 40,000 square feet and no more than fifty percent (50%) of retail store space shall be used for store in excess of 25,000 square feet. Non-Residential Uses shall include, but not necessarily be limited, to the following: 1. Professional office as defined in 5.63.2 Definitions. 2. Mid-to small scale retail stores consistent with a Village Center. 3. A restaurant with the conditions that any bar or cocktail lounge be located within the restaurant shall be solely for the purpose of servicing brunch, luncheon, dinner or special function customers; and not to comprise more then twenty-five percent (25%) of the floor area of the restaurant. 4. Bank or similar financial institution, including drive-through facilities. . The following uses are specifically excluded: 1. Fast food establishments as defined in Section 1.15.19 of the Canton Zoning By-laws - 45-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 2. Drive-through for the sale of food. Any other drive-through, with the exception of banks and financial institutions noted above, shall require a separate special permit from the Zoning Board in addition to the special permit for the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C". C. There shall be no deliveries or shipments between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. There shall be no deliveries or shipments between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. on weekends. No building or structure shall be designed, arranged or constructed and no building, structure or land shall be used, in whole or in part, for any purpose other than for one or more of the uses permissible by special permit. 5.63.7 Standards and Criteria A. Minimum Lot Size . The minimum lot size is 10,000 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area". . The lot must contain the "Buildable Lot Area" in a single, contiguous site within the boundaries of Revitalization Area "C". No portion of a public way or public street, as defined by the by-law may be included in computing the minimum required "Buildable Lot Area". B. Lot CoverageNo building shall be constructed so as to cover, together with any other building on the lot, more than thirty (30) percent of the "Buildable Lot Area". C. Minimum Lot Frontage and Access Each lot with less than 30,000 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area" shall have a minimum frontage of fifty (50) feet and at least one means of ingress/egress. Each lots with 30,000 square feet or more acres of "Buildable Lot Area" shall have a minimum frontage of fifty (50) feet and at least one means of ingress/egress. Each means of ingress/egress shall have a continuous frontage of not less than sixty feet. The Board of Appeals has the authority to require more than one means of ingress/egress. 5.63.8 Density No building or structure shall be designed, arranged or constructed and no building, structure or land shall be used, in whole or in part, which exceeds the densities specified below for residential and non- residential uses. A. Residential Uses Residential uses include: Multi-family housing and ancillary facilities and amenities for individuals fifty-five (55) years of age or older pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws c. 151B. One unit per 2,500 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof. Senior Housing including Independent Living Facilities, Institutional Living Facilities (Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities), and ancillary facilities and amenities, One unit per 2,500 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area" or position thereof. Multi-family Housing and/or Town Houses, including rental units and/or condominiums, and ancillary facilities and amenities. At least five percent (5%) of all Multi-family Housing and/or/Town House units created under the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" overlay zoning by-law shall contain three or more bedrooms. One unit per 2,500 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof. - 46-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 Notwithstanding the permissible maximum density of one unit per 2,500 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof, as set forth immediately above, the Board of Appeals may allow for an increase in residential density as follows: Multi-family Housing The maximum density for any project located wholly within the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" may be increased by a total of fifteen percent (15%) provided that the building and lot provides a minimum of sixty-five (65) percent of the required parking for that building and lot in underground structural parking facilities. The purpose of allowing the increase in allowable density is to increase the amount of Common Open Land. B. Non-Residential Uses One thousand (1,000) gross square feet of non-residential floor area per 10,000 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof. For the purpose of this section, "gross square feet of nonresidential floor area" means the total non- residential floor area contained within exterior walls but does not include basement space used for heating and utilities, storage or for automobile parking. 5.63.9 Set backs and Yard Regulations for Buildings No building shall be constructed so as to be nearer to the line of any street than the "required setback distance" or nearer to the side lines of its lot than the "required side yard width" or nearer to the rear line of its lot than the "required rear year depth" specified below, unless the SPGA determines lesser or no set back, side yard width or rear yard depth would be appropriate to the desired town center sense of place of the project: Each lot shall have a front yard setback distance of not less than twenty-five (25) feet and a side yard setback and a rear yard of not less than zero (0) feet from the nearest point of any exterior wall of the building. . A corner lot shall have a front yard setback on only one street, as designated by the site plan, and those portions of the lot paralleling the second street shall be considered sidelines. A. The required setback distance shall be measured forms the nearest exterior line of the street in question. B. No storage or display of goods, products, materials or equipment, vending machines or similar commercial devises shall be located nearer to the line of any street than the permitted setback distance for a building on the lot. C. No lot on which a building is located shall be reduced or changed in size or shape so that the building or lot fails to comply with the "Buildable Lot Area," frontage, building coverage, yard setback, or other dimensional provisions of this Section. 5.63.10 Height Regulations No building shall be constructed to exceed fifty feet (50') in height or a total of four (4) stories, whichever is lower Building height shall be measured as set forth in the State Building Code 780 CMR 5.63.11 Common Open Land Each project approved by the SPGA under this Section 5.63 shall provide one or more areas of Common Open Land aggregating no less than thirty percent (30%) of the Buildable Lot Area of the project. Such land may but need not be contiguous with or within the project site. The open space shall have a shape, dimension, character and location suitable to assure its use for park or open space purposes by the general public. No land to be included as part of the calculation of - 47-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 Common Open Land, shall be a parcel less than 500 square feet in size. Common Open Land may include land submerged beneath waterways, wetlands, flood plans and/or water bodies. 5.63.12 Parking Requirements In Priority Revitalization Area "C", there shall be provided and maintained improved off-street automobile parking in connection with the erection, establishment or increase in units or dimensions of buildings, structures and uses, in the following amounts: A. For dwelling units two parking spaces per each dwelling unit, except that a studio or one bedroom dwelling unit need not have more than one parking space. A.1. For restaurants and other on premises eating and drinking establishments, not less than one (1) parking space for each six (6) seats, subject to the discretion of the Zoning Board of Appeals to require additional parking space. Where benches are used, not less than one (1) parking space for each six (6) feet of bench, subject to the discretion of the Zoning Board of Appeals to require additional parking space. B. For retail stores and offices including salesrooms and show rooms, consumer service establishments, public administration buildings, business and professional offices, executive and administrative offices, banks and other financial institutions one parking space for each two hundred fifty (250) square feet of gross floor area. For the purpose of this section, "gross floor area" means the total floor area contained within exterior walls, but does not include basement space used for heating and utilities, storage or for automobile parking. C. Uses not listed in this Section 5.63.12 Parking Requirements, Subsections (A), (A.l) and (B) shall comply with the parking space requirements of the Zoning By-law Section 4.0 Off-Street Parking. D. In the case of mixed uses, the parking spaces required ~ be the sum of the requirement for the various individual uses, computed separately in accordance with this section. Parking spaces for one use shall not be considered as providing the required parking spaces for any other use unless it can be clearly demonstrated to the Board of Appeals that the need for parking occurs at different times. E. Whenever, after the date of adoption of this By-law, there is a change in the lawful use of the premises or in ili1Y. unit of measurement specified in Section 5.63 CCEOD Revitalization Area "C", which change separately or when combined with previous changes, creates a need for an increase or decrease of more than ten percent (10%) of the number of off-street parking spaces as determined by the provisions of this section, more off-street parking spaces shall, and fewer spaces may, respectively be provided within six months of the basis of the adjusted needs. F. Off-street automobile parking spaces, to the extent required in this section, may be provided either on the same lot or premises with the parking generator or on any lot or premises associated therewith a substantial portion of which at least is within three hundred (300) feet of the generator. G. Off-street parking facilities and connecting drives between such facilities and the street shall be designed to insure the safety and convenience of persons traveling within or through the parking area, and between the parking facility and the street. The provisions of Section 4.06 Design Standards shall be considered the minimum criteria for evaluating such design. H. In addition to the requirements for automobile parking spaces there shall also be provided for each building or group of buildings sufficient off-street loading space to insure that all loading operations take place off the public way. Loading spaces and access drives leading to loading spaces shall be designed that vehicles to be loaded or unloaded are not required to maneuver in the public way to enter or leave the designated loading area. The provisions of Section 4.06.6 Loading Areas shall be considered the minimum criteria for evaluating such design. Below grade structured automobile parking shall be permitted within the basements of buildings provided that such "structured basement" automobile parking is exclusively reserved for motor vehicles of residents, customers or employees of improvements on the project. Below grade structured parking may be designed to allow two cars to park in "tandem". In such case, each of the two "tandem" parking spaces shall be counted as providing a parking space for the purpose of meeting the off street parking requirements of this by-law. "Tandem" parking is defined as two parking spaces placed one behind another in single file. - 48-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 5.63.13 Signs and Advertising Devices The provisions of Section 4.1 Signs and Advertising devices is adopted for the regulation and restriction of bill boards, signs and other advertising devices within the Canton Center Economic Opportunity District Revitalization Area "C". 5.63.14 Affordable Units As a condition for the grant of a special permit pursuant to this Section 5.63 authorizing an increase in the otherwise permissible density of population or intensity of a particular use in a proposed development pursuant to the requirements of this section 5.63, at least twelve percent (12%) of the dwelling units attributable to such increased density shall be deed restricted in perpetuity, except for four units or less, the Board of Appeals may decide to waive this requirement; for occupancy by persons earning not more than eighty percent of the area median income as defined and regulated by the Commonwealth's Department of Housing and Community Development and 20% shall be for low income persons. Such affordable housing units shall be integrated into the overall development so as to prevent the physical segregation of such units and otherwise shall be indistinguishable from market rate units except in size and interior finishing and appliances. 5.63.15 Preference As a condition of approval, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall require that Canton residents be given first preference in the purchase or renting of affordable units, and the fees for all services will be negotiated between the Authority and the Developer, within the Canton Center Economic Opportunity District Development as provided for in 5.63.15 and 5.63.15A. 5.63.16 Canton Housing Authority For those apartment units specified as affordable, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall require that the Canton Housing Authority be given priority with regard to the selection process of residents be given priority with regard to the selection process of residents. Petition for bv Leslie A. Kramer and nine others MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be postponed indefinitely. VOTE: 8-0-0 FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends postponement of this article. Proponents for Plymouth Rubber created this article in hopes of attracting the interest of a developer for the site. However, when presented to the Finance Committee, there was no agreement with any party interested in re-developing the Plymouth Rubber property. The lack of an agreement resulted in an inability to formulate possible development plans for the site. Further, it was not communicated to the Finance Committee that any of the abutters of the Plymouth Rubber Company were consulted on the details of this article and it was clear that the Planning Board did not agree with the details. The proposed zoning by-law change of this article competes with Article 27 (sponsored by the Planning Board). The basic structure of these two articles is similar, however, substantial differences are found in the proposed density, height and open space on the site. The increased density proposed by this article could have considerable financial impact on the town due to possible increases in school populations, increased stress on town services, increased wear and tear on roads due to traffic and possible need for additional traffic lights throughout the town. However, with no firm development plans, it is impossible to assess any financial impact at this time. - 49-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 In light of these facts, we believe that action on this proposed change to the town by-laws is premature. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: For this article, the Planning Board voted to send an unfavorable recommendation to the town meeting. This article is not in line with the town's master plan nor is it protective of the surrounding neighborhood. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ "..,.(...=-.... PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ZONING BY-LAWS - LOT AREA AND WIDTH IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS Article 20 to see if the Town will vote to amend the town's zoning bylaws, as most recently amended, by substituting Section 4.21 with: Section 4.21 Lot Area and Width in Residential Districts In all Residential District, no building except a one-story building of accessory use, shall be constructed on lot having less area than the "Required Lot Area" or having less width, measured through that part of the building where the lot is narrowest, than the "Required Lot Width Through Building", or having less area than the "Minimum Required Non-Wetland Area" specified in the following table for the district in which said lot is located, and not more than one building constructed as a dwelling, or so used, shall be located on each such lot except that an apartment house may, subject to the conditions of a special permit, be authorized to consist of more than one building on a lot. Lot Width Minimum Required Lot Area Through Non-Wetland District Reauired Reauired Buildina Area Single Residence AA 45,000 sq.ft. 200 ft. 30,000 sq.ft. Single Residence A 30,000 sq.ft. 150 ft. 20,000 sq.ft. Single Residence B 15,000 sq.ft. 115 ft. 12,000 sq.ft. Single Residence C 10,000 sq.ft. 100 ft. 8,500 sq.ft. General Residence 10,000 sq.ft. 100 ft. 8,500 sq.ft. In computing the "Non-Wetland Area" required for a Residential Lot, no portion of any brook, creek, stream, river, pond, lake or reservoir or portion thereof, nor any freshwater wetland as defined by the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, nor any portion of a way or street, as defined by the By-law may be included in the minimum required Non-Wetland Area. or take any other action in relation thereto. Copies of which are on file in the office of the Planning Board, and in the office of the Board of Selectmen, at the Town Clerk at Memorial Hall, and at the reference desk of the Canton Public Library. Petition for bv Charles S. Cox Jr. and nine others FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION: MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be deferred to the Planning Board. VOTE: 8-0-0 PLANNING BOARD MOTION: MOVED: That the Town's Zoning By-laws, as most recently amended, be hereby amended by substituting 4.21 with: - 50-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 Section 4.21 Lot Area and Width in Residential Districts In all Residential District, no building except a one-story building of accessory use, shall be constructed on lot having less area than the "Required Lot Area" or having less width, measured through that part of the building where the lot is narrowest, than the "Required Lot Width Through Building", or having less area than the "Minimum Required Non-Wetland Area" specified in the following table for the district in which said lot is located, and not more than one building constructed as a dwelling, or so used, shall be located on each such lot except that an apartment house may, subject to the conditions of a special permit, be authorized to consist of more than one building on a lot. District Reauired Lot Area Reauired Lot Width Through Buildina Minimum Required Non-Wetland Area Single Residence AA Single Residence A Single Residence B Single Residence C General Residence 45,000 sq.ft. 30,000 sq.ft. 15,000 sq.ft. 10,000 sq.ft. 10,000 sq.ft. 200 ft. 150 ft. 115 ft. 100 ft. 100 ft. 30,000 sq.ft. 20,000 sq.ft. 12,000 sq.ft. 7,500 sq.ft. 7,500 sq.ft. In computing the "Non-Wetland Area" required for a Residential Lot, no portion of any brook, creek, stream, river, pond, lake or reservoir or portion thereof, nor any freshwater wetland as defined by the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, nor any portion of a way or street, as defined by the By-law may be included in the minimum required Non-Wetland Area. FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously recommends deferring this Article to the Planning Board. We see no financial impact to this Article and believe the Planning Board is the proper body to comment on this Zoning Article. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted to send a favorable recommendation to town meeting on this article. It would bring the town closer in line with surrounding towns by requiring buildable lots to have greater percentage of non-wetland area than today. This article is well in line with the town's master plan. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ "..,.l...=-... PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ZONING BY-LAWS TO REINSTATE CANTON ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY DISTRICT FROM SHERMAN STREET TO LEWIS STREET Article 21 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-law to reinstate original Canton Economic Opportunity District as approved by Canton Town Meeting and Attorney General in 1999 and reaffirmed in 2000 including Sherman Street to Lewis Street reinstated - As reiterated in the attached 2004 Canton Zoning By-laws Section beginning 5.61. Copies of which are on file in the office of the Planning Board, in the office of the Board of Selectmen, in the office of the Town Clerk at Memorial Hall, and at the reference desk of the Canton Public Library. Petition for bv M. D. Abramowitz and nine others MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be postponed indefinitely. VOTE: 8-0-0 - 51 -
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee does not support adoption of this proposed By-law change and have unanimously recommended that Town Meeting postpone action on this article indefinitely. We disagree with the article first with regard to form, in that the article, if adopted, would apply the CCEOD overlay as originally adopted in 2000 to the area in question - meaning that the many improvements to the by-law made since then would not apply in the re-zoned district. Second, it is our understanding - after consultations with the Planning Board - that this area was recently re-zoned and that there are, currently, no pending plans before the Planning Board for re-development in the area under consideration. It is their opinion that, until such time as people have actually brought plans before the board that cannot be accommodated within the recent re- zoning talk of applying the CCEOD to this area is premature. We concur. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted to send an unfavorable recommendation to town meeting for this article. It would reverse a nearly unanimous vote of town meeting to rezone the property last year. As is now zoned, the area strikes a balance between the residential feel with the business use that exists today. Although it is more restrictive than the Canton Center Economic District Priority Area A, it remains one of the most liberal districts in the town allowing both certain commercial and residential uses. This article would also eliminate all changes made to the entire CCEOD by-law made over the years including certified acoustical barriers, building height, and affordable housing. Although this may not be the intent, this is a factor that could be detrimental to the town. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ "..,.l...=-..., PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING BY-LAWS - SECTION 2.1.3.2 CERTAIN RESIDENTIAL USES BY SPECIAL PERMIT ONL Y. Article 22 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaws as most recently amended, by changing the language of Section 2.1.3.2 [actually 2.13.2J Certain Residential Uses by Special Permit Only by inserting after Paragraph A.3 a new paragraph A.4 and renumbering Paragraph A.4 as Paragraph A.5 such that it reads as follows: A.4 For premises containing more than four (4) dwelling units, at least ten percent (10%) of the dwelling units shall be deed restricted in perpetuity as "Affordable Units" as defined in the latest Department of Housing and Community Development Regulations M.G.L. c. 40B Low or Moderate Income Housing Programs. Plannina Board MOVED: To amend the Zoning By-Law Section 2.12.3 as most recently amended, by changing the language of Section 2.13.2 Certain Residential Uses by Special Permit Only by inserting after Paragraph A.3 a new paragraph A.4 and renumbering Paragraph A.4 as Paragraph 5 such that it reads as follows: "A.4 For premises containing more than four (4) dwelling units, in consideration of the increases in the otherwise permissible density of population or intensity of a particular use authorized pursuant to this Section 2.13.2, at least ten percent (100/0) of the dwelling units shall be deed restricted in perpetuity as "Affordable Units" as defined in M.G.L. c 40B SS. 20-23 and in the regulations of the Department of Housing and Community Development promulgated thereunder." This amendment to Sec. 2.13.2 voted at the 2006 Annual Town Meeting shall not apply to any Special Permit granted under Sec. 2.13.2 prior to the first publication of notice of the Planning Board's public hearing on this amendment. - 52-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 VOTE: 8-0-0 FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption of this proposal from the Planning Board - a technical change to Section 2.13.2 of the Zoning By-laws meant to help ensure that future multi-unit developments in town set-aside sufficient units for "Affordable Housing" so that Canton can maintain its favorable standing with regard to Chapter 40B of the Massachusetts General Laws. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted to recommend this article to town meeting. This article is a direct result of the town's master plan. It would further ensure that Canton keeps pace with the state mandated 10% of affordable housing as the town grows and provide greater opportunity's for affordable housing for Canton residents. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ "..,.l...=-..IC PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ZONING BY-LAWS BY CHANGING THE LANGUAGE OF SECTION 3.0 SITE PLAN APPROVAL AND 3.01 REQUIREMENT FOR SITE PLAN Article 23 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-laws as most recently amended by changing the language of Section 3.0 Site Plan Approval, 3.01 Requirement for Site Plan by inserting after the phrase "and no non-residential use" the phrase "including any charitable or philanthropic use for religious purposes or educational purposes" such that it reads: No building, except a residential structure for single or two family use, shall be constructed or externally enlarged, and no non-residential use including any charitable or philanthropic use for religious purposes or educational purposes shall be expanded in ground area, or established in an existing building not previously used for non-residential purposes, except in conformity with a site plan bearing an endorsement of approval by the Board of Appeals. Said site plan shall show, among other things, all existing and proposed buildings, structures, parking spaces, loading areas, driveway openings, driveways, service areas, other open uses, and all facilities for either underground or overhead utilities, including, but not limited to electric, telephone, fire alarm systems, gas, water, sewage, and drainage, refuse and other waste disposal and for surface water drainage, and all landscape features (such as walks, fences, walls, planting area and green belts) on the lot. Plannina Board FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION: MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be postponed indefinitely. VOTE: 7-0-0 PLANNING BOARD MOTION: MOVED: To amend the Zoning By-Laws, Section 3.0 Site Plan Approval, and Section 3.01 Requirement for Site Plan, as most recently amended, by inserting after the phrase "and no non-residential use" the phrase "including any charitable or philanthropic use for religious purposes or educational purposes" such that it reads: No building, except a residential structure for a single or two family use, shall be constructed or externally enlarged, and no non-residential use including any charitable or philanthropic use for religious purposes or educational purposes shall be expanded in ground area, or established in an existing building not previously - 53 -
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 used for non-residential purposes, except in conformity with a site plan bearing an endorsement of approval by the Board of Appeals. Said site plan shall show, among other things, all existing and proposed buildings, structures, parking spaces, loading areas, driveway openings, driveways, service areas, other open uses, and all facilities for either underground or overhead utilities, including, but not limited to electric, telephone, fire alarm systems, gas, water, sewage, and drainage, refuse and other waste disposal and for surface water drainage, and all landscape features (such as walks, fences, walls, planting area and green belts) on the lot. FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously recommends indefinite postponement of this article in its current form. While generally supportive of the intent of the article, the committee believes the language as proposed by the Planning Board is unduly restrictive in that it appears to limit the applicability of this change only to religious organizations. We do not believe that is the intent of this proposed change. To appropriately broaden the applicability, we suggest the highlighted language should read as follows: including any charitable, philanthropic, religious or educational use or purpose. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted to recommend this article to town meeting. This amendment to the zoning by-law would offer additional protection to the town by ensuring that educational and religious development would have the same type of site plan review as private commercial projects. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ ., -11.1... ::8'~ PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE TOWN'S ZONING MAP - 2468 WASHINGTON STREET AND GREENLODGE STREET Article 24 To see if the town will vote to amend the town's zoning map, as most recently amended, by changing the designation of the parcels of land located at 2468 Washington Street and Greenlodge Street, described on the Board of Assessors Map 67, Lot 22 and Map 43, Lot 1, copies of which have been placed on file and are available for public view at the Office of the Planning Board, at the Office of the Town Clerk, the Office of the Board of Selectmen in Memorial Hall, at the research desk at the Canton Public Library, and on the town web site from Single Residence Band Single Residence C to Parkland, Recreation, and Open Space, or to take any other action in relation thereto. Plannina Board MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be postponed indefinitely. VOTE: 7-0-0 FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously recommends indefinite postponement of this article. It is our understanding that the Planning Board intends to postpone or withdraw this article and we support that decision. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted to postpone indefinitely the subject matter of this article. The Planning Board will continue discussions with the property owner and hopes to bring this article back to a future town meeting. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ - 54-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006
.'..,.l...=-....
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING BY-LAWS, SECTION 1.24 - RIGHTS AUTHORIZED
BY A VARIANCE
Article 25 To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 1.24 (~4) of the Canton Zoning By-laws,
as most recently amended, as follows::
STRIKE the fourth paragraph in its entirety and SUBSTITUTE therefore the following:
If the rights authorized by a variance are not exercised within one year of the date of grant of
such variance, such rights shall lapse; provided, however, that the permit granting authority in its
discretion and upon written application by the grantee of such rights may extend the time for exercise
of such rights for a period not to exceed six months; and provided, further, that the application for
such extension is filed with such permit granting authority prior to the expiration of such one year
period. If the permit granting authority does not grant such extension within thirty days of the date of
application therefore, and upon the expiration of the original one year period, such rights may be
reestablished only after notice and a new hearing pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L. c. 40A, or take
any other action in relation thereto.
Plannina Board
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be deferred to the Planning Board.
VOTE: 7-0-0
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That Section 1.24 ('4) of the Zoning By-laws, as most recently amended, be
further amended as follows:
By striking the fourth paragraph in its entirety and substituting therefore the following:
If the rights authorized by a variance are not exercised within one year of the date of
grant of such variance, such rights shall lapse; provided, however, that the permit granting
authority in its discretion and upon written application by the grantee of such rights may
extend the time for exercise of such rights for a period not to exceed six months; and
provided, further, that the application for such extension is filed with such permit granting
authority prior to the expiration of such one year period. If the permit granting authority
does not grant such extension within thirty days of the date of application therefore, and
upon the expiration of the original one year period, such rights may be reestablished only
after notice and a new hearing pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L. c. 40A.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously decided to defer
action on this article to the Planning Board, and it is our expectation that the Planning Board will offer
the language as printed in the Warrant on the floor of Town Meeting. It is our understanding that this
is a minor, technical change to Section 1.24 of the Zoning By-laws that is done so as to match
Massachusetts law. Because of the technical nature of this article, we chose to defer to the Town's
elected Planning Board.
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted to recommend this article to town
meeting. The proposed by-law change would bring the towns zoning by-laws in line with the
Massachusetts General Laws and provide those granted variances the ability to file for an extension
one year after the petition is granted.
APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 .,..,. lei. =-.... PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE TOWN'S ZONING MAP - BY CHANGING THE DESIGNATION OF PARCELS OF LAND LOCATED AT BLUE HILL RIVER ROAD Article 26 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town's Zoning Map, as most recently amended, by changing the designation of the parcels of land located at Blue Hill River Road, described on the Board of Assessors' Map 84 Lot 3, copies of which have been placed on file and are available for public view at the Office of the Planning Board, at the Offrice [actually Office] of the Town Clerk, the Office of the Board of Selectman in Memorial Hall, at the research desk at the Canton Public Library, and on the town web site from Single Residence AA to Parkland, Recreation, and Open Space, or take any other action in relation thereto. Plannina Board FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION: MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be deferred to the Planning Board. VOTE: 7-0-0 PLANNING BOARD MOTION: MOVED: That the Town's Zoning Map, as most recently amended, be amended by changing the zoning designation of the parcels of land located at Blue Hill River Road, described on the Board of Assessors' Map 84 Lot 3, from Single Residence AA to Parkland, Recreation, and Open Space. FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously decided to defer action on this article to the Planning Board. This article proposes a change to the zoning map and involves certain parcels of land on Blue Hill River Road. Because of the technical nature of this article, we chose to defer to the Town's elected Planning Board. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted to recommend this article to town meeting. This article is a direct result of the town master plan. The Department of Conservation and Recreation property, known as Brookwood Farm, straddles the Canton-Milton line and was a gift of Canton resident Henry Howe. The rezoning of this property would insure the protection in the event of its sale to a private entity. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ .,..,. lei. =-1 PROPOSED ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT - ESTABLISHMENT OF A CANTON CENTER ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY DISTRICT (CCEOD) ZONING BY-LAW Article 27 5.6 Canton Center Economic Opportunity District By-law There is hereby established a Canton Center Economic Opportunity District (CCEOD) Zoning By-law. The CCEOD is divided into three separate and distinct sub-districts of Canton Center as follows: Priority Revitalization Area "A": That area of Canton Center that runs along Washington Street from Neponset Street to Sherman Street, a distance of approximately 3000 linear feet. Revitalization Area "B": That area of Canton Center that runs along Washington Street from Sherman Street to Lewis Street, a distance of approximately 1000 linear feet. - 56-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 Revitalization Area "C": That area of Canton Center that runs along Revere Street from the boundary of the CCEOD Revitalization Area "A" to the intersection of the railroad bridge/tracks and Revere Street, a distance of approximately 2,500 linear feet. Revitalization Area A and B are shown on a map entitled" Canton Center Economic Opportunity District (Priority Revitalization Area "A" and Revitalization Area "B") prepared by the Canton Planning Department and dated December 20, 2004. Revitalization Area C is shown on a map entitled "Canton Center Economic Opportunity District ( Revitalization Area "C") prepared by the Canton Planning Department and dated December 18, 2005. Which maps are hereby incorporated by reference in this Section 5.6. 5.63 Priority Revitalization Area "c" The benefits described in this Section 5.63 shall accrue only to those parcels located entirely within the boundary of the Priority Revitalization Area "C". Priority Revitalization Area "C" is established for the accomplishment of the following purposes: A. To promote the economic health and stability of the Town by encouraging development and economic investment in Canton Center. B. To provide additional planning flexibility for projects located in Canton Center, including enhancing the coordination of the project with the environmental and natural features of the development site, including: . Development of parks and open spaces on Common Open Land, which would be available for use by the general public. . Protection, or enhancement of adaptive reuse of, historically significant buildings as required by the Canton Historical Commission and the State Historical Commission. . Protection and enhancement of the natural environment, including rivers, waterways, and wildlife corridors as required by the Canton Conservation Commission, DEP and NHP. The revitalization plan must be sensitively designed and constructed to avoid the disruption of wildlife. . Provide public access and walking trails along waterways, connections to the MBTA train Stations and to Canton Center. . Protection of scenic vistas as advised by the Canton Trails Commission. C. To encourage mixed-use development, including but not limited to, offices, retail shops, and multi-family housing. No more than forty percent (40%) of the non-residential uses can be office. Mixed use development includes: . Small-scale village-oriented development in according to prescribed review and approval procedures and according to design standards that are particular to the CCEOD Residential Area "C". Multi-family and/or Town houses for individuals fifty-five (55) years of age or older pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws c. 151B. Low and/or moderate income housing as defined pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40B Sections 20-23 and the regulations promulgated there under. - 57-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 . Senior Housing including Independent Living Facilities, Institutional Living Facilities (Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities), and ancillary facilities and amenities. Museums, farmers markets, and cultural establishments, small business incubator space, artist studio and galleries, artist housing, open space and river access, community gathering space, indoor and outdoor performance space. D. To permit the use of new development standards which will promote the desired changes in Canton Center and to provide information on the potential impacts of a proposed development that include, but are not limited to, the following: . A mix of commercial and residential uses that help to contain traffic within the revitalization area and by so doing limit impacts to residential portions of the community. . To enable the Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA) to require adherence to "Site Development and Use Plans" in the granting of a special permit. . Creates regulatory procedures for determining appropriate locations for uses defined herein. Provide for development in a manner that strives to maintain the existing character of the CCEOD Revitalization District "C" and nearby neighborhoods, creates a harmony between residential and non-residential neighborhoods, protects existing abutting neighborhoods, and minimizes the development impact on nearby neighborhoods, while striving to conserve environmental features, woodlands, wet areas, the Canton River, open spaces and areas of scenic views, beauty, and vistas such as the Viaduct. E. Master Plan and Report The document entitled "Planning Brief for a Canton Center Economic Opportunity District - Revitalization Area "C' Zoning By-Law, Canton Massachusetts", prepared for the Canton Planning Board by the Canton Planning Department and dated August 15, 2005 is incorporated by reference in this Section 5.63 The applicant will prepare a Master Plan and Report in conformity with the requirements of the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" objectives, standards, and criteria. If the landowner elects to file a development plan on a portion of a single contiguous tract of land, the applicant shall prepare a Master Plan and Report for the entire contiguous tract of land. The Master Plan will describe conditions prior to and on completion of both the proposed project. Environmental issues to be addressed include water quality, pollution of groundwater, damage or threat to wetlands, flood plains, and plants and animals. The applicant will prepare Site Plans in conformity with the Planning Board Rules and Regulations. The Site Plan will furnish information consistent with the information required by the Planning Board for approval of a subdivision. The Board of Appeals mav arant a Special permit under this Section only if it finds the following: 1. That the proposed project will be in harmony with the general purpose of the bylaw and the requirements of General Laws, Chapter 40A, and the long range Open Space Plan of the town; that it will not have a detrimental impact on the neighborhood, will be designed with due consideration for health and safety, preserving open space, minimizing environmental - 58-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 disruption, or allowing for more efficient provision of services and traffic circulation. 2. That the project itself does not impinge upon critical environmental areas such as:. 2.1. Land abutting rivers, brooks and/or ponds of significant public interest, which enhances or protects wetlands or flood plains, or which provide public access to the water body, or which enhance or provide scenic vistas or views, or which provide water-related recreation opportunities. 2.2 Land which provides a significant wildlife habitat or which is a unique natural area 2.3 Groundwater Protection District and/or land which provides recharge to Canton's current or future wells and highly favored aquifer areas. 3. That the "Common Open Land" and other open land protects critical environmental areas and provides a valuable outdoor recreation resource. 3.1 Common Open Land or open land which is to be developed for active or passive recreational uses 3.2. Land which preserves existing trail networks or land on which new trails will be developed. New trails will be developed as part of the development for integration into existing and proposed trail networks. 3.3 Land which enhances scenic views 3.4. Land providing desirable public access to existing or proposed recreational or conservation land. 4. That land intended to be conveyed to, or restricted for the benefit of the Town of Canton 4.1 Enhances or protection of critical environmental areas, unique natural features, scenic vistas, or potential open space. 4.2 Provides a valuable addition to the open space resources of the Town. 4.3 Provides for a more efficient use of the land in harmony with its natural features. 4.4 Provides for creativity in the design of developments through a carefully controlled process 4.5 Provides a less sprawling form of development, a shorter network of streets and utilities, more economic development of land with less consumption of open space. 4.6 Permanently preserves natural topography and wooded areas within development areas and preserves usable open space close to homes. 4.7 Provides an efficient procedure to ensure appropriate high quality design and site planning to enhance the neighborhoods in which they occur and to the Town as a whole. 5. That the design or redesign of buildings shall acknowledge and respect the surrounding existing pattern of development, open space, and natural resources, such as the Canton River and the Viaduct, and Canton Center. 5.1 Promote the thoughtful design or redesign of buildings. 5.2 Enhance the open space between existing and proposed buildings. 5.3 Promote the visual and functional quality of Canton Center - 59-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 5.4 Promote bicycles and pedestrian trails. 5.5 Provides pedestrian links to Canton Center and the existing MBTA train stations (Canton Junction and Canton Center) 6. That the project seeks to protect, or enhance adaptive reuse of, historically significant buildings as identified by the Canton Historical Commission and/or the State Historical Commission. 5.63.2 Definitions For the special purposes of this Section 5.63, the following words and phrases shall have the meaning hereinafter indicated: Applicant: The person or persons, including without limitation a corporation or other legal entity, who applies for issuance of a special permit for construction of an CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" project, hereunder. Buffer: An area within the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" adjacent to the boundaries, streams, rivers, ponds, which may not be developed except as provided herein. Building Height: Building height shall be measured as set forth in the State Building Code 780 CM R. Buildable Lot Area: A "Buildable Lot Area" shall be a single continuous tract of land located entirely within Priority Revitalization Area "C" which is contiguous with the frontage, and which excludes any land defined as a "Resource Area" under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (MGL Chapter 131, Section 40 and 40A). Development Schedule: A schedule showing the order and timing of construction and the sequence of the improvements to be built or finished in the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" site, separated into stages where applicable. Common Open Land: Any such area of land containing no building, structure, parking areas, driveways or roadways. Professional Office: The office of one skilled in an occupation that primary services clients or patients rather than customers including, but not limited to, the office of a lawyer, doctor, dentist, architect, engineer, landscape architect, real estate agent, insurance agent, or the studio of an artist, musician, or teacher, or the workroom of a dressmaker, milliner, or photographer in which retail sales are incidental to office use. Regulations: The applicable rules and regulations of the Board of Appeals relative to Special Permits. The Zoning Board of Appeals, as the Special Permit Granting Authority, reserves the right to modify and/or wave any and all requirements described in this section. Upland Acres: Land without a "Resource Area". Resource Area: All land subject to the provisions of MGL Chapter 131, Section 40 and 40A. 5.63.3 Scope of Authority Revitalization Area "C" shall not restrict the owner's rights relative to the underlying zoning districts. However, if the owner elects to file for a special permit under Revitalization Area "C', the development shall conform to the requirements of Section 5.63 Priority Revitalization Area "C". - 60-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 If the landowner selects to file a development plan in conformance with the requirements of the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" on a portion of a single continuous tract of land the entire continuous tract of land shall conform to the objectives, standards, and criteria specified by the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" overlay zoning by-law. The landowner shall be prohibited from filing a development plan in conformance with the requirements of the underlying zoning district on any portion of such a continuous tract of land. 5.63.4 Special Permit Granting Authority The Zoning Board of Appeals is hereby designated as the Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA) for all purposes under Section 5.63 Priority Revitalization Area "C". All special permit applications shall conform to the standards and criteria of this Section and the Zoning Board of Appeals Rules and Regulations governing the administration of applications for special permits. Under Section 5.63 Priority Revitalization Area "C", no building shall be constructed or externally enlarged, and no use shall be expanded in ground area, or established in an existing building except in conformity with a Site Development and Use Plan that bears the endorsement of approval by the Board of Appeals. - Requirements and Procedures for approval shall be in accordance with Article III. Section 3.0 Site Plan Approvals. Construction or operations under a building permit or a special permit shall conform to any subsequent amendment of the Zoning By-law, unless the use or construction is commenced within a period of not less than six months after the issuance of the permit and such construction is continued through to completion as continuously and expeditiously as in reasonable. Any appeal or litigation concerning the subject development shall extend said six month period while such appeal or litigation is pending. Prior to the Canton Building Commissioner issuing any occupancy permit, the developer must certify to the Building Commissioner that all open space and recreation improvements required by the approved "Site Development and Use Plan"are at least ninety (90) percent complete and that all open space and recreation improvements will be one hundred (100) percent complete within 180 days of the issuance of the first occupancy permit. 5.63.5 Objectives In addition to the specific criteria contained within this section, the SPGA shall issue a special permit for development within Revitalization Area "C" only after consideration of the following: A. Adequacy of the site in terms of the size of the proposed use(s); B. Adequacy of the provision of open space, its accessibility to the general public, and/or Its association with adjacent or proximate open space areas; C. Suitability of the site for the proposed uses(s); D. Impact on traffic and pedestrian flow and safety; E .Impact on the visual character of the neighborhood; F. Adequacy of utilities, including sewage disposal, water supply and storm water drainage; and G. Degree to which the proposed project complies with the goals of the Canton CenterRevitalization Plan and the provisions of this section. 5.63.6 Uses Permitted Within Priority Revitalization Area "C", the Board of Appeals may issue a special permit for the following uses: A. Multi-family houses or buildings, subject to the following conditions: - 61 -
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 . At least 50 percent of the total units must be multi-family housing for individuals fifty-five (55) years of age or older pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws c. 151B. The minimum lot size for this type of development is five acres. . At least 12 percent of the total units must be low or moderate income housing as defined pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40B Sections 20-23 and the regulations promulgated there under. . Senior Housing including Independent Living Facilities, Institutional Living Facilities (Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities), and ancillary facilities and amenities. . Multi-family Houses and or Town Houses and ancillary facilities and amenities. B. Small-scale village-center retail stores and offices including salesrooms and showrooms, consumer service establishments, business and professional offices, executive and administrative offices, banks and other institutions. Small scale shall mean that the maximum size of a retail store shall be 25,000 square feet and no more than fifty percent (50%) of retail store space shall be used for store in excess of 10,000 square feet. Non-Residential Uses shall include, but not necessarily be limited, to the following: 1. Professional office as defined in 5.63.2 Definitions. 2. Small scale retail stores consistent with a Village Center. 3. A restaurant with the conditions that any bar or cocktail lounge be located within the restaurant shall be solely for the purpose of servicing luncheon or dinner customers; and not to compromise more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the floor area of the restaurant 4. Bank or similar financial institution, including drive-through facilities. . The following uses are specifically excluded: 1. Fast food establishments as defined in Section 1.15.19 of the Canton Zoning By- laws 2. Drive-through for the sale of food. Any other drive-through, with the exception of banks and financial institutions noted above, shall require a separate special permit from the Zoning Board in addition to the special permit for the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C". . The following conditions shall apply to all non-residential uses: 1. There shall be no deliveries or shipments between 10 pm and 7:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. There shall be no deliveries or shipments between 10 pm and 8:00 a.m. on weekends. 2. No building or structure shall be designed, arranged or constructed and no building, structure or land shall be used, in whole or in part, for any purpose other than for one or more of the uses herein set forth as permissible by special permit. 5.63.7 Standards and Criteria A. Minimum Lot Size . The minimum lot size is 800,000 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area", except that Multi-family housing and ancillary facilities and amenities for individuals fifty-five (55) years of age or older pursuant to - 62-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 Massachusetts General Laws c. 151B must be a minimum of five (5) acres of "Buildable Lot Area"" . The lot must contain the "Buildable Lot Area" in a single, contiguous site within the boundaries of Revitalization Area "C". . No portion of a public way or public street, as defined by the by-law may be included in computing the minimum required "Buildable Lot Area". B. Lot Coverage No building shall be constructed so as to cover, together with any other building on the lot, more than thirty (30) percent of the "Buildable Lot Area". C. Minimum Lot Frontage and Access Each lot with five (5) or more acres of "Buildable Lot Area" shall have a minimum frontage of two hundred and fifty (250) feet and at least one means of ingress/egress. Each means of ingress/egress shall have a continuous frontage of not less than sixty feet The Board of Appeals has the authority to require more than one means of ingress/egress 5.63.8 Density No building or structure shall be designed, arranged or constructed and no building, structure or land shall be used, in whole or in part, which exceeds the densities specified below for residential and non-residential uses. A. Residential Uses Residential uses include: Multi-family housing and ancillary facilities and amenities for individuals fifty-five (55) years of age or older pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws c. 151B. One unit per 7,000 square feet of " Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof. Senior Housing including Independent Living Facilities, Institutional Living Facilities (Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities), and ancillary facilities and amenities, . One unit per 7,000 square feet of " Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof Multi-family Housing and/or Town Houses and ancillary facilities and amenities. One unit per 7,000 square feet of " Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof. Notwithstanding the permissible maximum density of one unit per 7,000 square feet of "Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof, as set forth immediately above, the Board of Appeals may allow for an increase in residential density as follows: Multi-family Housing The maximum density for any project located wholly within the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" - 63 -
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 may be increased by a total of five percent (5%) provided that the building and lot provides a minimum of sixty-five (65) percent of the required parking for that building and lot in underground structural parking facilities. The purpose of allowing the increase in allowable density is to increase the amount of Common Open Land. B. Non-Residential Uses One thousand (1,000) gross square feet of non-residential floor area per 20,000 square feet. of "Buildable Lot Area" or portion thereof. For the purpose of this section, "gross square feet of nonresidential floor area" means the total non- residential floor area contained within exterior walls but does not include basement space used for heating and utilities, storage or for automobile parking. 5.63.9 Setbacks and Yard Regulations for Buildings No building shall be constructed so as to be nearer to the line of any street than the "required setback distance" or nearer to the side lines of its lot than the "required side yard width" or nearer to the rear line of its lot than the "required rear yard depth" specified below: Each lot shall have a front yard setback distance of not less than sixty (60) feet and a side yard setback of not less than twenty-five (25) feet from the nearest point of any exterior wall of the building, except that if the side yard abuts a residential district or a building used primarily for residential purpose, a side yard setback of not less than thirty-five (35) feet from the nearest point of any exterior wall of the building is required. . A corner lot shall have a front yard setback on only one street, as designated by the site plan, and those portions of the lot paralleling the second street shall be considered sidelines. Each lot shall have a rear yard setback of not less than twenty-five (25) feet. A. The required setback distance shall be measured forms the nearest exterior line of the street in question. B. No storage or display of goods, products, materials or equipment, vending machines or similar commercial devices shall be located nearer to the line of any street than the permitted setback distance for a building on the lot. c. No lot on which a building is located shall be reduced or changed in size or shape so that the building or lot fails to comply with the "Buildable Lot Area", frontage, building coverage, yard setback, or other dimensional provisions of this Section. 5.63.10 Height Regulations No building shall be constructed to exceed forty feet (40') in height or .a total of three (3) stories, whichever is lower. However, the permitting authority may allow additional height with a greater setback at it's discretion. - 64-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 Building height shall be measured as set forth in the State Building Code 780 CMR 5.63.11 Common Open Land, Town Park and Community Building Town Park: Each site shall have a minimum of thirty (30%) percent of its "Buildable Lot Area" designated as Common Open Land for use by the general public. The open space shall have a shape, dimension, character and location suitable to assure its use for park or open space purposes by the general public, and twenty percent (20%) of the land to be considered as a Town Park. The park will have walkways connecting it to both the development as well as the downtown. There will also be 'public parking' allocated for the park. The minimum size of the park will be 80,000 s.f. Buffer Area: A "Buffer Area" of twenty-five 25 feet shall be provided at the perimeter of the CCEOD Revitalization Area "C" site. The applicant shall file a landscape plan, prepared by a Massachusetts Registered Landscape Architect, that demonstrates in the opinion of the Board of Appeals sufficient plantings to provide adequate screening. "Buildable Lot Areas" that are also designated as "Buffer Areas" shall be included in the calculation of "Common Open Land". The Board of Appeals may reduce the width of the required "Buffer Area" and modify other landscape requirements where the applicant demonstrates that suitable screening will be provided by other means. Community Center: The petitioner shall build a 'community center' for use by the occupants of the development and be open to the public. The size of the community center is directly linked to the number of bedrooms/units in the development. The community center shall be 25 square feet for every bedroom that is built. 5.63.12 Parking Requirements In Priority Revitalization Area "C', there shall be provided and maintained improved off-street automobile parking in connection with the erection, establishment or increase in units or dimensions of buildings, structures and uses, in the following amounts: A. For dwelling units two parking space per each dwelling unit.. A.1. For restaurants and other on premises eating and drinking establishments, not less than one (1) parking space for each six (6) seats, subject to the discretion of the Zoning Board of Appeals to require additional parking space. Where benches are used, not less than one (1) parking space for each six (6) feet of bench, subject to the discretion of the Zoning Board of Appeals to require additional parking space. B. For retail stores and offices including salesrooms and showrooms, consumer service establishments, public administration buildings, business and professional offices, executive and administrative offices, banks and other financial institutions one parking space for each two hundred fifty (250) square feet of gross floor area. For the purpose of this section, "gross floor area" means the total floor area contained within exterior walls, but does not include basement space used for heating and utilities, storage or for automobile parking. C. Uses not listed in this Section 5.63.12 Parking Requirements, Subsections (A), (A.l) and (B) shall comply with the parking space requirements of the Zoning By-law Section 4.0 Off-Street Parking. - 65-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 D. In the case of mixed uses, the parking spaces required shall be the sum of the requirement for the various individual uses, computed separately in accordance with this section. Parking spaces for one use shall not be considered as providing the required parking spaces for any other use unless it can be clearly demonstrated to the Board of Appeals that the need for parking occurs at different times. E. Whenever, after the date of adoption of this By-law, there is a change in the lawful use of the premises or in ~ unit of measurement specified in Section 5.63 CCEOD Revitalization Area "C", which change separately or when combined with previous changes, creates a need for an increase or decrease of more than ten percent (10%) of the number of off-street parking spaces as determined by the provisions of this section, more off-street parking spaces shall, and fewer spaces may, respectively be provided within six months of the basis of the adjusted needs. F. Off-street automobile parking spaces, to the extent required in this section, may be provided either on the same lot or premises with the parking generator or on any lot or premises associated therewith a substantial portion of which at least is within three hundred (300) feet of the generator. G. Off-street parking facilities and connecting drives between such facilities and the street shall be designed to insure the safety and convenience of persons traveling within or through the parking area, and between the parking facility and the street. The provisions of Section 4.06 Design Standards shall be considered the minimum criteria for evaluating such design. H. In addition to the requirement for automobile parking spaces there shall also be provided for each building or group of buildings sufficient off-street loading space to insure that all loading operations take place off the public way. Loading spaces and access drives leading to loading spaces shall be so designed that vehicles to be loaded or unloaded are not required to maneuver in the public way to enter or leave the designated loading area. The provisions of Section 4.06.6 Loading Areas shall be considered the minimum criteria for evaluating such design. 5.63.13 Signs and Advertising Devices The provisions of Section 4.1 Signs and Advertising devices is adopted for the regulation and restriction of bill boards, signs and other advertising devices within the Canton Center Economic Opportunity District Revitalization Area "C". 5.63.14 Certified Acoustical Barriers No activity or use shall be allowed which causes exterior noise levels to exceed a day-night average sound level of 65 decibels (65 L dn) at the lot line; no dwelling unit shall be located where exterior noise levels exceed a day-night average sound level of 65 decibels (65 L dn); and no dwelling unit shall be constructed which allows interior noise levels to exceed a day-night average sound level of 45 decibels (45 L dn). The day-night average sound level (L dn) is the 24-hour average sound level, in decibels; resulting from the accumulation of noise from all sources contributing to the external noise environment of the site with 10 decibels added to sound levels occurring from 10:00AM to 7:00PM. The day-night average sound level (L dn) shall be determined in accordance with The Code of Federal Regulations, Title 24-Housing and Urban Development, Part 51Environmental Criteria and Standards (24 CFR 51). 5.63.15 Affordable Units As a condition for the grant of a special permit pursuant to this Section 5.63 authorizing an increase in the otherwise permissible density of population or intensity of a particular use in a proposed development pursuant to the requirements of this Section 5.63, at least twelve percent (12%) of the dwelling units shall be deed restricted in perpetuity, except for four units or less, the Board of Appeals may decide to waive this requirement; for occupancy by persons earning not more than eighty percent of the area median income as defined and regulated by the Commonwealth's Department of Housing and Community Development. - 66-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 Such affordable housing units shall be integrated into the overall development so as to prevent the physical segregation of such units and otherwise shall be indistinguishable from market rate units except in size and interior finishing and appliances 5.63.16 Preference As a condition of approval, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall require that Canton residents be given first preference in the purchase or renting of affordable units, and the fees for all services will be negotiated between the Authority and the Developer, within the Canton Center Economic Opportunity District Development as provided for in 5.63.15 and 5.63.15A. 5.63.17 Canton Housing Authority For those apartment units specified as affordable, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall require that the Canton Housing Authority be given priority with regard to the selection process of residents. be given priority with regard to the selection process of residents. Plannina Board FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION: MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be deferred to the Planning Board. VOTE: 7-0-0 PLANNING BOARD MOTION: MOVED: To amend the Zoning Map, as most recently amended, so as to revise the boundaries of the overlay zoning district entitled "Canton Center Economic Opportunity District"; and To amend the Zoning By-Law Sec. 5.6 as most recently amended, by establishing a Canton Center Economic Opportunity District (CCEOD) divided into three separate and distinct sub- districts of Canton Center. The purposes of the areas described, are to promote development for projects that would enhance the environment and natural features of the sites in the Revere Street area, encourage mixed-use development of business and professional and multi-family housing, and to permit the use of new development standards which will retain the sites present character; and To amend Section 5.63.12 H. Parking Requirements to add the following: "Below grade structured automobile parking shall be permitted within the basements of buildings provided that such "structured basement" automobile parking is exclusively reserved for motor vehicles of residents, customers or employees of improvements on the project. " FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the adoption of this zoning article, but has chosen to defer action on this proposal to the Planning Board so as to enable the possibility of offering a modified proposal to the Town should they chose to so do. The Town should be well aware of the fact that Plymouth Rubber is currently in bankruptcy and must liquidate their property in Canton. Article 27 establishes a framework for the desired uses of the Plymouth Rubber property as it moves forward to new owners. The content of the article is strongly influenced by the findings of the recently completed Master Plan Study and by citizen input obtained at numerous workshops and meetings held by the Planning Board over the past 16-months. We believe this article presents an equitable balance between the financial considerations desired by a developer and the short and long term needs of the Town. The financial benefits to a developer from increased density and height of mixed-use buildings are balanced against the town benefits of open space, 55+ and senior housing, affordable housing, preservation of historic structures, water rights - 67-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 and the construction of a community center. It should also be noted that the terms defined in this article can be modified at future town meetings to accommodate any unforeseen obstacles or problems associated with the redevelopment of the 43-acre property. The redevelopment of the Plymouth Rubber site represents a unique opportunity for the Town to convert a centuries-old industrial site into a desirable mixed-use neighborhood in the heart of our downtown area. The goal is to increase the attractiveness of the downtown area in a manner that will also enhance existing downtown businesses. What is proposed herein is an overlay - meaning that the underlying Industrial zoning will still exist, should the new owners of the property choose to retain the present type of use. We believe that the framework set forth in this article is a great first step in the process of creating a highly desirable area in the Town in the place of the existing Industrial use. We further believe this is the perfect time to start the process and to define the town's expectations for the property. Finally, we believe adoption of this proposal would be beneficial to a potential buyer in that it would clearly establish the Town's preferences for the redevelopment of the Plymouth Rubber property. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted to recommend this article to town meeting. The Board believes it is in harmony with the towns master plan, reflective of the two public workshops held regarding the proposed rezoning of the land in the Plymouth Rubber section of town, and is protective of the surrounding neighborhood and the town as a whole. The Planning Board has made it clear that when and if a developer comes forward, the town would be more than willing to enter into discussions and to make a project work for both the town and the developer. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ .,..,. lei. =-..t: MASSACHUSETTS COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT Article 28 To see if the Town will accept Sections 3 to 7, inclusive, of Chapter 44B of the General Laws, otherwise known as the Massachusetts Community Preservation Act, by approving a surcharge on real property for the purposes permitted by said Act, including the acquisition, creation, and preservation of open space, the acquisition, rehabilitation, preservation, and restoration of historic resources, the acquisition, creation and preservation of land for recreational use, the creation, preservation and support of community housing, and the rehabilitation and restoration of such open space, land for recreational use and community housing that is acquired or created as provided under said Act; to determine the amount of such surcharge on real property as a percentage of the annual real estate tax levy against real property; to determine whether the Town will accept any of the exemptions from such surcharge permitted under Section3(e) of said Act; or to take any other action relative thereto. Board of Selectmen for Plannina Board and Historical Commission MOVED: That Sections 3 to 7, inclusive, of Chapter 44B of the General Laws, otherwise known as the Massachusetts Community Preservation Act, be accepted and that a surcharge on real property for the purposes permitted by said Act be approved, including the acquisition, creation, and preservation of open space, the acquisition, rehabilitation, preservation, and restoration of historic resources, the acquisition, creation and preservation of land for recreational use, the creation, preservation and support of community housing, and the rehabilitation and restoration of such open space, land for recreational use and community housing that is acquired or created as provided under said Act; that the amount of such surcharge on real property shall be one (1) percent of the annual real estate tax levy against real property beginning in fiscal year 2007; and to accept the following exemptions from such surcharge permitted under Section 3(e) of said Act: - 68-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 (1) property owned and occupied as a domicile by a person who would qualify for low income housing or low or moderate income senior housing in the city or town; and (2) $100,000 of the value of each taxable parcel of residential real property. VOTE: 5-3-0 MAJORITY DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted 5-3 to support the adoption of the Community Preservation Act. The CPA provides funding for specific capital projects dealing with Open Space and Recreation, Historical Preservation, and Affordable Housing. A portion of CPA funding is generated by a property tax surcharge, ranging from 0.1% up to 3% of the assessed property value. Exemptions to the CPA surcharge are given to any household that earns less than 80% of the area median income and to any senior (60+) who earns up to 100% of the median. The first $100K of residential property value is also exempt from the surcharge. The remaining funds for the CPA are supplied by matching donations from the Commonwealth. The current match by the state is dollar- for-dollar (100%) with expectations that matching funds over the next five years will be around $0.75 - $0.85 cents on the dollar (75-85% matching). At least 10% of all money collected under the CPA must be spent in each of the three categories leaving the remaining 70% to be used at the discretion of the Town within CPA constraints. Should Town Meeting approve the acceptance of the CPA, the Town would then be required to vote at a future scheduled election to accept the CPA before the surcharge could be imposed and funds could be appropriated. As such, this proposal is similar to a Proposition 2 V2 override in that Town Meeting approval is the first step in a 2-step process. If passed at the election, the Town must participate in the CPA program for a minimum of 5 years. The estimated impact on the average household in Canton would be $35 at the proposed 1% rate and the percentage can be changed at any annual or special town meeting during the 5-year period. The CPA is an important tool that would encourage the Town to make fair, responsible development decisions and to raise much-needed funding to maintain community character and the attractiveness of our Town. Proponents were persuaded to accept the CPA principally because of the availability of matching funds from the Commonwealth (funded through Registry of Deeds transaction fees), thus increasing the "buying power" of each dollar raised. For example, a $40K project could cost taxpayers only $20K, with the state providing the balance. The proponents argued that had the CPA been adopted when first enacted 5 years ago, the Town would have benefited significantly with "free" 100% matching funds that could have been utilized in the High School, Library and Eliot School (now the new Police Station) projects, just to name a few. The end result is that the Town would be in a much better overall financial position that it is at present. Proponents identified numerous proposed projects that are currently in the pipeline where CPA funds could be used. It is their opinion that adoption of the CPA would reduce the amount of any override that would be required in the future. At present, over 100 communities in the Commonwealth have adopted the CPA and are getting the benefit of matching state money, which includes money paid at the Registry of Deeds by Canton taxpayers. MINORITY DISCUSSION: The CPA represents a tax increase whose sole purpose is to fund capital projects dealing with Open Space, Historic Preservation and Affordable Housing. While we acknowledge that these areas represent many of the things that "make Canton Canton", the minority of the Committee believes that these "nice to haves" are all expendable at a time of extreme fiscal difficulty and cannot recommend the adoption of the CPA at this time. We therefore recommend that the Town postpone consideration of the adoption of the CPA until such time as our operational budget is in long-term balance and capital projects of immediate necessity and benefit to all are underway. The Town's fiscal difficulties should be well known to everyone at this point. With the budget we propose in this Warrant - which according to the Town's Department Heads is underfunded by at least $lM - we are projecting that all Free Cash Reserves will be depleted in the coming Fiscal Year. The Town is therefore realistically looking at the prospect of a multi-million dollar operational override vote as early as next spring and has literally tens-of-millions of dollars of capital and enterprise account - 69-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 projects such as road repairs, water system improvements, and new facilities (such as the DPW) - almost none of which would qualify for any sort of funding under the CPA - in the pipeline. All of these projects will put pressure on the taxpayers and are, in our opinion, a much higher priority to the entire town than anything eligible for funding under the CPA. We believe it is unwise to recommend increasing taxes to fund "quality of life" projects at a time when we cannot identify the revenue streams required to fund basic Town services. Further we note that, unlike many other towns, Canton already has a capital budget and that adoption of the CPA - because of its requirement to spend at least 10% of the available money in each area covered under the Act - would compel the Town to spend money on projects that we would not otherwise fund. In addition, the minority argued that among the past projects cited by the proponents of the article, the High School and Library projects were indeed funded with overrides and that the Eliot School project - which was funded with an inside the levy debt authorization - could have been. As such, none of these projects, were they funded with the CPA, would have made any difference what so ever to the operational budget, which the source of our deficit problems. Finally, it should be noted that while 103 towns have adopted the CPA since it became law in 2000, more than 240 other towns have not chosen to adopt the CPA at this time. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ .,..,. lei. =-..c ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT COMMITTEE Article 29 To see if the Town will vote to amend the General By-laws by adding the following new Article XVI, Section 17, or to take any other action relative thereto: Section 17 Community Preservation Committee 17.1 The Community Preservation Committee is established consisting of seven voting members pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44B. 17.2 The Community Preservation Committee shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen and consist of one member each from the: 17.2.1 Conservation Commission as designated by the Conservation Commission, Historical Commission as designated by the Historical Commission and Planning Board as designated by the Planning Board for an initial term of three years and thereafter for a term of three years; 17.2.2 Recreation Commission as designated by the Recreation Commission and Housing Authority as designated by the Housing Authority, for an initial term of two years and thereafter for a term of three years; 17.2.3 Board of Selectmen as designated by the Board of Selectmen and one community member, appointed for an initial term of one year and thereafter for a term of three years. 17.3 The Community Preservation Commission shall study the needs, possibilities, and resources of the Town regarding community preservation. The Committee shall consult with existing municipal boards and hold one or more public informational hearings yearly on the needs, possibilities and resources of the Town regarding community preservation. Notice of these public hearings shall be posted publicly and published for each of two weeks preceding a hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the Town. 17.4 The Community Preservation Committee shall make recommendations to the legislative body for the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space; for the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources; for the acquisition, creation and preservation of land for recreational use; for the creation, preservation and support of community housing; and for the rehabilitation or restoration of open space, land for recreational use and community housing that is acquired or created as provided in M.G.L. Chapter 44B. With respect to - 70-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 community housing, the Community Preservation Committee shall recommend, wherever possible, the reuse of existing buildings or construction of new buildings on previously developed sites. 17.5 The Community Preservation Committee may include in its recommendation to the Town Meeting a recommendation to set aside for later spending funds for specific purposes consistent with the Community Preservation Act. 17.6 The Community Preservation Committee shall not meet or conduct business without the presence of a quorum. A majority of the members of the Community Preservation Committee shall constitute a quorum. The Community Preservation Committee shall approve its actions by majority vote. Recommendations to the Town Meeting shall include their anticipated costs. Board of Selectmen for Plannina Board and Historical Commission MOVED: That the General By-laws be amended by adding the following new Article XVI, Section 17: Section 17 Community Preservation Committee 17.1 The Community Preservation Committee is established consisting of seven voting members pursuant to G. L. Chapter 44 B. 17.2 The Community Preservation Committee shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen and consist of one member each from the: 17.2.1 Conservation Commission as designated by the Conservation Commission, Historical Commission as designated by the Historical Commission and Planning Board as designated by the Planning Board for an initial term of three years and thereafter for a term of three years; 17.2.2 Recreation Commission as designated by the Recreation Commission and Housing Authority as designated by the Housing Authority, for an initial term of two years and thereafter for a term of three years; 17.2.3 Capital Planning Committee as designated by the Capital Planning Committee and one community member, appointed for an initial term of one year and thereafter for a term of three years. 17.3 The Community Preservation Commission shall study the needs, possibilities, and resources of the Town regarding community preservation. The Committee shall consult with existing municipal boards and hold one or more public informational hearings yearly on the needs, possibilities and resources of the Town regarding community preservation. Notice of these public hearings shall be posted publicly and published for each of two weeks preceding a hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the Town. 17.4 The Community Preservation Committee shall make recommendations to the Town Meeting for the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space; for the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources; for the acquisition, creation and preservation of land for recreational use; for the creation, preservation and support of community housing; and for the rehabilitation or restoration of open space, land for recreational use and community housing that is acquired or created as provided in G.L. Chapter 44 B. With respect to community housing, the Community Preservation Committee shall recommend, wherever possible, the reuse of existing buildings or construction of new buildings on previously developed sites. 17.5 The Community Preservation Committee may include in its recommendation to the Town Meeting a recommendation to set aside for later spending funds for specific purposes consistent with the Community Preservation Act. - 71 -
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 17.6 The Community Preservation Committee shall not meet or conduct business without the presence of a quorum. A majority of the members of the Community Preservation Committee shall constitute a quorum. The Community Preservation Committee shall approve its actions by majority vote. Recommendations to the Town Meeting shall include their anticipated costs. VOTE: 7-1-0 DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends the adoption of Article 29 to establish a Community Preservation Act (CPA) Committee. Under the law, the CPA requires participation from a member of each of the following committees: Historical Commission, Recreation Commission, Housing Authority, Conservation Commission and Planning Board. We agree with the Board of Selectmen that it is extremely important for this Committee to have citizen involvement and recommend that a "Member of the Community At Large" be appointed by the BOS to this committee. However, we believe that the Capital Planning Committee most certainly needs to be represented on the CPA Committee and further believe that BOS is already indirectly represented through the Historical, Recreation and Conservation Commissions. If there are plans to expand the membership of the CPA Committee in the future we strongly believe that a member of the Finance Committee should be included. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ "..,.lel.=-H INSURANCE PROCEEDS Article 30 To see whether the Town will vote to appropriate all sums over $20,000 recovered under the terms of any insurance policy and all other insurance proceeds paid to the Town in connection with any losses suffered during the course of the year, FY 06, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be postponed indefinitely. VOTE: 7-0-0 DISCUSSION: As there are no anticipated insurance proceeds in excess of $20,000 to be appropriated, the Finance Committee recommends that this article be postponed indefinitely. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ "..,. lei. =-11 PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO TOWN BY-LAW ARTICLE X BY ADDING SECTION 5- PERMIT ADVISORY COMMITTEE Article 31 To see if the Town will vote to amend Article X of the General By-laws by adding the following new Section 5, or to take any other action relative thereto: Section 5. Permit Advisory Committee (a) Establishment, Purpose 1. There shall be a Permit Advisory Committee (the "PAC"), the purpose of which is to expedite the development review process in the Town. The PAC shall help streamline the application and review process by performing a preliminary staff review of proposed projects. - 72-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 2. Specifically, the PAC shall expedite the development review process in Canton by: i. meeting with prospective permit applicants to share information and offer guidance and assistance; ii. listening to the prospective applicant's proposed ideas for development; iii. informing the applicant of the Town's approval process, bylaws, requirements, rules and regulations with which the applicant and the proposed project must conform; iv. coordinating Town concerns and departmental responsibilities to communicate requirements to permit applicants; v. assisting the Town's regulatory boards by identifying the salient issues regarding proposed development projects; and vi. facilitating communication among Town departments and professional staff who regulate and advise on land use development. (b) Composition, Appointment, Term of Office 1. The composition of the PAC shall be as follows: i. one member representing: Board of Selectmen ii. one member representing: Planning Board iii. the Town Planner iv. one member representing: Zoning Board of Appeals v. one member representing: Conservation Commission vi. one member representing: The Building Department vii. one member representing: The Economic Development Commission viii. one member representing: The Police Department ix. one member representing: The Fire Department x. two members representing the Citizens at Large. 2. Each PAC member shall be a member of and appointed annually by the entity which the member represents, except for the Two Citizens at Large, who shall be appointed annually by the Board of Selectmen. (c) Town of Canton Development Handbook 1. The PAC is authorized to publish and from time to time amend guidelines which shall outline the process of obtaining permits for project development in the Town. 2. The guidelines shall be entitled the Town of Canton Develooment Handbook (the "Development Handbook"). 3. The Development Handbook shall be an advisory guide containing summary information only. The Development Handbook shall not affect the applicability of the by-laws, rules, regulations, requirements and standards for development in the Town, including without limitation federal and state statutes and regulations, the Zoning By-law, the General By-laws and the Planning Board's Subdivision Rules and Regulations. Board of Selectmen FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION: MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be deferred to the Board of Selectmen. VOTE: 7-0-0 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MOTION: MOVED: That Article X of the General By-laws be amended by adding the following new Section 5, Section 5. Permit Advisory Committee (a) Establishment, Purpose - 73 -
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 1. There shall be a Permit Advisory Committee (the "PAC"), the purpose of which is to expedite the development review process in the Town. The PAC shall help streamline the application and review process by performing a preliminary staff review of proposed projects. 2. Specifically, the PAC shall expedite the development review process in Canton by: i. meeting with prospective permit applicants to share information and offer guidance and assistance; ii. listening to the prospective applicant's proposed ideas for development; iii. informing the applicant of the Town's approval process, bylaws, requirements, rules and regulations with which the applicant and the proposed project must conform; iv. coordinating Town concerns and departmental responsibilities to communicate requirements to permit applicants; v. assisting the Town's regulatory boards by identifying the salient issues regarding proposed development projects; and vi. facilitating communication among Town departments and professional staff who regulate and advise on land use development. (b) Composition, Appointment, Term of Office 1. The composition of the PAC shall be as follows: i. one member representing: Board of Selectmen ii. one member representing: Planning Board iii. the Town Planner iv. one member representing: Zoning Board of Appeals v. one member representing: Conservation Commission vi. one member representing: The Building Department vii. one member representing: The Economic Development Commission viii. one member representing: The Police Department ix. one member representing: The Fire Department x. two members representing the Citizens at Large. 2. Each PAC member shall be a member of and appointed annually by the entity which the member represents, except for the Two Citizens at Large, who shall be appointed annually by the Board of Selectmen. (c) Town of Canton Development Handbook 1. The PAC is authorized to publish and from time to time amend guidelines which shall outline the process of obtaining permits for project development in the Town. 2. The guidelines shall be entitled the Town of Canton Development Handbook (the "Development Handbook"). 3. The Development Handbook shall be an advisory guide containing summary information only. The Development Handbook shall not affect the applicability of the by- laws, rules, regulations, requirements and standards for development in the Town, including without limitation federal and state statutes and regulations, the Zoning By-law, the General By-laws and the Planning Board's Subdivision Rules and Regulations. DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee agrees with the Board of Selectmen that the creation of a "Permit Advisory Committee" and a "Development Handbook" is a good approach in guiding developers through the permit application procedures in town. This will not circumvent the Town's ability, desire, or need to perform due diligence in permit processing but will provide developers with a comprehensive understanding of the Town's permitting processes, bylaws, rules and regulations at the beginning stages of their project. It will also provide an easier and clearer method of communication between the various town boards and developers. Though we agree with the concept of this article, we would like to offer the Board of Selectmen the maximum possible flexibility in bringing an article to the floor of Town Meeting and have therefore chosen to defer action on this matter to them. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ - 74-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 ".".lel.a~ DONATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF SENIOR CENTER Article 32 To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute a sum of money to be expended by the Board of Selectmen to return all donations received by the Counsel [actually Council] on Aging for the purposes of funding the proposed Senior Center behind 1476 Washington Street, or take any other action related thereto Board of Selectmen for Council on Aaina FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION: MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be deferred to the Board of Selectmen. VOTE: 7-0-0 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MOTION: MOVED: That the sum of Fifty Nine Thousand Five Hundred Ninety Six Dollars ($59,596) be appropriated to be expended by the Board of Selectmen to return all donations received by the Council on Aging for the purposes of funding the proposed Senior Center behind 1476 Washington Street, and to meet this appropriation, Fifty Nine Thousand Five Hundred Ninety Six Dollars ($59,596) be transferred from the Senior Center Project Fund in the treasury of the Town. DISCUSSION: This is a procedural matter recommended by Town Counsel which would give authorization to the Council on Aging/Board of Selectmen to return unused donations that were initially intended for a new Senior Center. Though the Finance Committee does not contemplate any problems with this article, we have chosen to defer to the Board of Selectmen on this subject. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ .,..,. lei. ate ACQUIRE LAND OR EASEMENT TO OBTAIN ACCESS TO FORGE POND FOR THE CREATION OF A PEDESTRIAN WALK Article 33 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase or eminent domain an access easement on the lands known as Canton Tax Assessor's Map 26, Parcels 181 and 182 and more particularly described by deed in the Norfolk Registry of Deeds at Book 5368, Page 617 and Canton Tax Assessor's Map 26, Parcels 172 and more particularly described by deed in the Norfolk Registry of Deeds at Book 21934, Page 314, commonly known as 641 Washington Street for the purpose of creating public access to Forge Pond by constructing and maintaining a pedestrian walk way and further to authorize the Board of Selectmen to vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, and lor borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum or sums of money to be spent by the Board of Selectmen to carry out this acquisition, and to take any other action in relation thereto. Board of Selectmen FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION: MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be deferred to the Board of Selectmen. VOTE: 7-0-0 - 75-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MOTION: MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen are authorized to acquire by gift, purchase or eminent domain an access easement on the lands known as Canton Tax Assessor's Map 26, Parcels 181 and 182 and more particularly described by deed in the Norfolk Registry of Deeds at Book 5368, Page 617 and Canton Tax Assessor's Map 26, Parcel 172 and more particularly described by deed in the Norfolk Registry of Deeds at Book 21934, Page 314, commonly known as 641 Washington Street for the purpose of creating public access to Forge Pond by constructing and maintaining a pedestrian walk way. DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously recommends deferring this Article to the Board of Selectmen and the Annual Town Meeting. At the time of the Finance Committee's vote, we did not have enough information to make a recommendation to the Town one way or another. It appears to be in the best interest of the Town. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ .,..,.(...=-~ ACQUIRE TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION EASEMENT AND PERMANENT UTILITY EASEMENT- DEDHAM STREET TO SHA WMUT ROAD Article 34 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain taking a twenty (20) foot permanent utility easement for all purposes which utility easements are used in the Town of Canton, including but not limited to water, stormwater, telecommunications and electricity in the location of an existing sewer easement shown as "10' Sewer Easement" on a plan entitled, "Easement Plan of Land in Canton Massachusetts" and dated August 20, 1997 as prepared by Dunn-McKenzie, Inc. and recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in Plan Book 455 as Plan No. 229 in 1998 and expanding the location of the existing sewer easement by adding an additional five (5) feet on each side to create the new permanent utility easement area and to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain taking a thirty (30) foot temporary construction easement for the installation and construction of the utility easement described above including the area of the twenty (20) foot permanent utility easement and expanding the same by adding five (5) additional feet on either side to create the area of the temporary easement and further to authorize the Board of Selectmen to vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, and/or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum or sums of money to be spent by the Board of Selectmen to carry out this acquisition and necessary improvements, or to take any other action in relation thereto. Board of Selectmen FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION: MOVED: That the subject matter of this article be deferred to the Board of Selectmen. VOTE: 7-0-0 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MOTION: MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen is hereby authorized to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain a twenty (20) foot permanent utility easement for all purposes which utility easements are used in the Town of Canton, including but not limited to water, storm water, telecommunications and electricity in the location of an existing sewer easement shown as "10' Sewer Easement" on a plan entitled, "Easement Plan of Land in Canton Massachusetts" and dated August 20, 1997 as prepared by Dunn-McKenzie, Inc. and recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in Plan Book 455 as Plan No. 229 in 1998 and expanding the location of the existing sewer easement by adding an additional five (5) feet on each side to create the new permanent utility easement area and to acquire by - 76-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 purchase, gift or eminent domain taking a thirty (30) foot temporary construction easement for the installation and construction of the utility easement described above including the area of the twenty (20) foot permanent utility easement and expanding the same by adding five (5) additional feet on either side to create the area of the temporary easement. This authorization is to take effect upon passage in Fiscal Year 2006. DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously recommends deferring this Article to the Board of Selectmen and the Annual Town Meeting. At the time of the Finance Committee's vote, we did not have enough information to make a recommendation to the Town one way or another. From time to time, it is necessary for the town to obtain easements to construct public utilities for its businesses and citizens. APPROVED______ DISAPPROVED______ .,..,. lei. =-t. PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO TOWN BY-LAW ARTICLE IV, SECTION 4, DUTIES OF MODERATOR, SECTION 5, ORDER OF BUSINESS, SECTION 6, RECONSIDERATION, SECTION 11, LIMITATIONS ON DEBATE, SECTION 12 VOTING AND A NEW SECTION 17 MOTION TO REQUIRE THE USE OF WRITEN BALLOTS Article 35 To see if the town will vote to amend the general by-laws of the town, as most recently amended, by adopting the recommendations of a committee appointed by the Town Moderator pursuant to a vote taken at the 2005 Annual Meeting of the Town, (Article 2, Motion 4) as follows: 1. By striking out the provisions of Article IV, Section 4, Duties of Moderator, in their entirety and substituting in their place a new section 4, substantially as follows: Section 4. Town Moderator, Powers and Duties (a) In General - The town moderator shall preside and regulate the proceedings at town meetings so as to preserve order and decorum. The town moderator shall decide all questions of order, but subject to a motion to appeal the ruling of the chair as provided by law, by by-law or by the rules of parliamentary procedure. Every ruling involving a question of order shall be entered into the records of the town meeting by the town clerk. The town moderator may appoint another voter to perform the duties of the town moderator in order to speak on an article appearing in the warrant, if ill or called away, or in any other instance where it might be construed a conflict of interest for the town moderator to preside. (b) Parliamentarv Guidelines - In all matters of parliamentary procedure not provided for in the constitution and laws of the Commonwealth, the town by-laws, town policies, procedures and practices, the town moderator (and the voters) shall be guided by the principles of fairness, clarity, and efficiency, in that order. In determining any parliamentary question, the town moderator shall give due regard to the entire body of scholarship encompassing parliamentary procedure, but with particular emphasis on the most recently published edition of Town Meeting Time, a manual of parliamentary procedure published by the Massachusetts Moderators Association, but resort may also be had for guidance to other authorities and examples of parliamentary procedure, including reference to rules and rulings of state and local legislative bodies. or, to take any other action in relation thereto. - 77-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 2. By striking out the provisions of article IV, Section 5, Order of Business, in their entirety and substituting in their place a new section 4, substantially as follows: 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. the adoption of procedures to govern the conduct of the meeting, 3. to hear the reports of committees appointed at prior town meetings, 4. to hear a report on the fiscal condition of the town, 5. to act on a, so-called, consent agenda, After all of the above matters have been taken up the other articles in the town meeting warrant shall be acted upon in the order in which they are drawn, in lottery fashion, by the town clerk, assisted by the town moderator. When an article has been drawn in the lottery it shall then, at once, be acted upon and no other article shall be taken up until the drawn article has been fully disposed of, provided, however, a motion to return the article to the lottery pool until some other article has been acted upon, may be accepted by the moderator if made prior to any discussion on the merits of the drawn article. All articles which in the opinion of the moderator could, or might raise, appropriate or transfer any funds or otherwise obligate the town to spend or encumber any funds, shall be acted upon before the general appropriation article is taken up. The moderator may declare that certain articles must be acted upon in a particular order of sequence, or that one article must be acted upon before another article may be acted upon, or that an article is to be taken up at a time certain. In any such situation the articles shall be acted upon in the order and at the time determined by the town moderator. or, to take any other action in relation thereto. 3. By inserting into Article IV, Section 6, Reconsideration, after the first sentence, two new paragraphs, substantially as follows: No final vote shall be reconsidered unless notice shall have been given not less than thirty-six week day hours preceding the time a vote is taken on the question: "Shall the final vote taken under article [00] of this warrant be reconsidered?" Whenever a motion is made (and seconded) to reconsider a previously completed final vote, the moderator shall place said motion on the calendar for action as the first order of business at the next session of the town meeting held more than thirty-six week day hours after the time the said motion is made. or, to take any other action in relation thereto. 4. By striking out the provisions of Article IV, Section 11, Limitations on Debate, in their entirety and inserting in their place a new Section 11, substantially as follows: Section 11. Limitations on Debate (a) Time Limit - Debate may be closed not less than ten minutes following the adoption of a vote to limit debate under an article to a fixed time. - 78-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 (b) End All Debate - All debate may be terminated under an article by the adoption of a vote to "move the previous question" with a plurality of two-thirds, or more of the voters present and voting. The moderator shall refuse to accept a motion to move the previous question when made by a speaker after said speaker has made any remarks concerning the merits of the main question then pending. or, to take any other action in relation thereto. 5. By striking out the provisions of Article IV, Section 12, Voting, in their entirety and inserting a new Section 12in their place, substantially as follows: Section 12. Voting When a question is put to the voters the sense of the meeting shall, in the first instance, be determined by the voices of the voters, and the moderator shall announce the vote as it appears to the moderator by the sound. If the moderator is in doubt, the sense of the meeting shall next be determined by a show of hands, and if the moderator is in further doubt the sense of the meeting shall finally be determined by a standing vote. If the announcement of a vote by the moderator is immediately doubted by seven or more voters standing in their place for that purpose, the moderator shall, without debate, determine the vote by ordering a standing vote and shall appoint tellers to make and return the count, as provided in section 15. At the discretion of the town moderator the voice vote, or the show of hands vote, may be eliminated. There is no appeal from the results of a standing vote. If a two thirds, four fifths or nine tenths vote of a town meeting is required by statute, a standing vote shall be taken, and the vote shall be recorded in the records by the town clerk; provided, however, if a two-thirds vote of a town meeting is required by statute, a declaration by the town moderator that the vote constitutes that number shall be sufficient, unless said declaration shall immediately be doubted by seven or more voters as aforesaid. or, to take any other action in relation thereto 6. By inserting into Article IV, at the end thereof, a new Section 17, substantially as follows: Section 17. Motion to Require the Use of Written Ballots Written ballots may be used to determine a vote under any article in the warrant (1) in the discretion of the moderator made in advance of the meeting, or (2) if said use is directed by a majority vote of the town meeting. Whenever the town meeting votes to cause the vote under any article in the warrant to be taken by written ballots the vote shall be suspended for not less than thirty-six week day hours in order to allow time for ballots to be prepared and procedures to be put in place for the conduct of said voting. The town moderator shall place said motion on the calendar for action as the first order of business at the next session of the town meeting held more than thirty-six weekday hours after the time the said motion has been voted. or, to take any other action in relation thereto Board of Selectmen for Committee established MOVED: That the general by-laws of the town, as most recently amended, be hereby further amended as follows: 1. the provisions of Article IV, Section 4, Duties of Moderator, be deleted in their entirety and in their place a new section 4, be hereby substituted, as follows: Section 4. Town Moderator, Powers and Duties - 79-
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 24, 2006 (a) In General - The town moderator shall preside and regulate the proceedings at town meetings so as to preserve order and decorum. The town moderator shall decide all questions of order, subject to a motion to appeal the ruling of the chair as provided by law, by by-law or by the rules of parliamentary procedure. Every ruling involving a question of order shall be entered into the records of the town meeting by the town clerk. The town moderator may appoint another voter to perform the duties of the town moderator in order to speak on an article appearing in the warrant, if ill or called away, or in any other instance where it might be construed a conflict of interest for the town moderator to preside. (b) Parliamentarv Guidelines - In all matters of parliamentary procedure not provided for in the constitution and laws of the Commonwealth, the town by-laws, town policies, procedures and practices, the town moderator (and the voters) shall be guided by the principles of fairness, clarity, and efficiency, in that order. In determining any parliamentary question, the town moderator shall give due regard to the entire body of scholarship encompassing parliamentary procedure, but with particular emphasis on the most recently published edition of Town Meeting Time, a manual of parliamentary procedure published by the Massachusetts Moderators Association, but resort may also be had for guidance to other authorities and examples of parliamentary procedure, including reference to rules and rulings of state and local legislative bodies. 2. The provisions of article IV, Section 5, Order of Business, be hereby deleted in their entirety and in their place a new section 5 be hereby substituted as follows: 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. the adoption of procedures to govern the conduct of the meeting, 3. to hear the reports of committees appointed at prior town meetings, 4. to hear a report on the fiscal condition of the town, 5. to act on a, so-called, consent agenda, After all of the above matters have been taken up the other articles in the town meeting warrant shall be acted upon in the order in which they are drawn, in lottery fashion, by the town clerk, assisted by the town moderator. When an article has been drawn in the lottery it shall then, at once, be acted upon and no other article shall be taken up until the drawn article has been fully disposed of, provided, however, a motion to return the article to the lottery pool until some other article has been acted upon, may be accepted by the moderator if made prior to any discussion on the merits of the drawn article. All articles which in the opinion of the moderator could, or might raise, appropriate or transfer any funds or otherwise obligate the town to spend or encumber any funds, shall be acted upon before the general appropriation article is taken up. The moderator may declare that certain articles must be acted upon in a particular order of sequence, or that one article must be acted upon before another article may be acted upon, or that an article is to be taken up at a time certain. In any such situation the articles shall be acted upon in the order and at the time determined by the town moderator. Any decision by - 80-