Planning Commission proposed subdivision amendments

By Carol Casey

The Planning Commission adopted a series of amendments to the subdivision bylaw at its meeting on Nov. 12. Some of the proposed changes are necessary to bring the bylaw into conformity with new state law, and would clarify the requirements for classification as a minor or major subdivision. A hearing will be held on the proposal before it is forwarded to the Selectboard for consideration.

The commission also continued its work on proposed measures to protect historic properties under form-based code. The Historic Preservation and Design Review Commission identified 12 properties with 16 buildings along the Route 7 corridor that should be protected, and suggested that the HPDRC play a role in reviewing any proposals that would affect these properties and those nearby. Commissioners Kate Lalley and Ann Hogan will work on specific language to carry out the commission’s intent, and Town Planner Dean Pierce will suggest appropriate incentives for developers who plan on developing or redeveloping these properties. Incentives might include a density bonus and/or tax benefits. These will be considered by the commission at their meeting on Dec. 10.

Commission Vice Chair Jaime Heins presented draft language regarding energy facility siting. The commission decided that this language should be proposed as an ordinance rather than a zoning bylaw amendment in order to give it more weight in Public Service Board deliberations. Heins will redraft the proposal in this manner for consideration by the Planning Commission at its next meeting.

Commission Chair Ron Bouchard noted that he had participated in a panel discussion organized by the Solar Siting Task Force on Nov. 3. In a letter addressed to the deputy commissioner of the Vermont Public Service Department outlining his remarks, Bouchard strongly urged that towns “be given a greater consideration in these [Public Service Board] hearings and that the PSB must have strong reasons for ignoring their concerns.”

He said, “Town plans, regulations and view sheds along with environmental impacts should be considered, respected and protected.”

The commission also briefly reviewed its work plan, and agreed that incorporating an updated bike and pedestrian facility map in the town plan would be a priority.

In the public comment portion of the meeting, Tammy Shea asked that the commission review and revise regulations for doggy day care facilities. At present, no more than 25 dogs may be cared for and the facility must be located on a property of at least three acres. She argued that it was not financially feasible to run a business limited to 25 dogs, and that a building of only 10,000 square feet would be sufficient for the care of some 75 dogs. She also suggested that such facilities should be allowed in more zoning districts than currently permitted. The commission agreed to look into the issue.

Commissioner Hogan reported that the Shelburne business survey had been mailed out on Oct. 28 and that 128 responses had already been received. She will report on the results of the survey at a future meeting.

The commission’s next public meeting will be held on Thursday, Dec. 10 at 7pm in the Municipal Center. The commission will also meet on Thursday, Dec. 17 and hopes to complete its work on the form-based code proposal by that date.