Page 197 - Microsoft Word - Annual Report 2016

PLANNING BOARD

Approvals Not Required
The ANR process allows for all lots with sufficient frontage on existing roads and which meet
other conditions under the Zoning Bylaws to be approved without having to go through the
subdivision approval process.

The Board reviewed two applications under the process of “Approval Not Required” (ANR).
Both applications were approved.

Subdivision Activity
Construction work continued on the Weathered Walls Subdivision (Sagamore Lane) and
Pineridge Subdivision (Deer Run Road) throughout 2016. The Board voted to release a total of
$65,200 from a tri-partite bonding agreement for the Weathered Walls Subdivision to reflect the
satisfactory completion of selected portions of the project.

The Board released a Covenant Not to Transfer on lot #1 of the Budnick Way Subdivision.

There were no new subdivision applications received in 2016.

Zoning Board of Appeals
The Town’s Zoning Bylaw requires that the Planning Board make a recommendation to the
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) for each appeal, application, or petition that comes before them.
The Planning Board appointed Pat Canonica to act as a liaison between the Planning Board and
the ZBA. In this capacity, Mr. Canonica attends ZBA hearings and facilitates communication
between the ZBA and the Planning Board.

The Planning Board reviewed a total of fifteen ZBA cases in 2016. A favorable recommendation
was issued in all cases, although some recommendations were subject to conditions.

The ZBA cases included the co-location of a new antenna on an existing cell tower at Topsfield
Road, recommended action in the case of overly long occupancy of temporary trailers in two
different cases, and the recommended approval of a Variance for construction of a farmer’s
porch closer than the required setback.

Driveway Permits
In 2008 a Bylaw was adopted to regulate the installation, construction and relocation of
driveways. Normal maintenance, repair and repaving are exempt from the Bylaw.

In 2016 five driveway applications were reviewed by the Planning Board. A favorable
recommendation was issued in four cases. The fifth case, relating to 81A Stiles Pond Road, is
still under review.