The Zoning and Planning Committee voted to hold all items (see Report and watch the NewTV video):
- Petition to rezone lots on Charles Street from Multi-Residence 1 and Manufacturing to Mixed Use 1. According to the petitioner, the current zoning of the two parcels is both Manufacturing and Multi-Residence 1, and the zoning cuts across property lines and an existing building. Councilors and the public questioned why a rezoning request was made separate from a special permit petition. Attorney Morris stated that the request was to clean up the zoning in the area and provide his client with the opportunity to expand if they desire in the future. The Committee voted to hold 7-0, Councilor Baker not voting.
- Discussion of Zoning Ordinance regarding village centers. The Public hearing continued for 1.5 hours with approximately 16 people testifying. Opposing concerns were primarily about overdevelopment, loss of historical buildings, and traffic. Supporters spoke of increased housing and environmental benefits. The Committee voted to hold 8-0.
The City provided clarification on some comments:
- Newton’s inclusionary zoning ordinance will apply to the VCOD. It requires a minimum percentage of units to be deed restricted for households earning between 50 and 80 percent of the Average Median Income (AMI) and must achieve an average of 65 percent AMI. Individuals in these units cannot be spending more than 30% of their income on housing.
- EV charger requirements are now part of the updated 2023 state building code and Newton is unable to require more chargers than the state building code.
In the August meeting, the Zoning and Planning Committee will discuss possible amendments to the proposed maps. Public hearings will reopen in September.
- Requesting discussion on state guidance for implementing the Housing Choice Bill. NOTE: The discussion was not in the Committee Report. The Committee voted to hold 8-0.
- Discussion and possible ordinance to allow for breweries, brew pubs, and other craft beverage production. The Public Hearing was set for September 11. According to the report, Chief of Long Range Planning, Zach LeMel provided a presentation to the committee. The proposed ordinance would create a new use for craft beverage services and eliminate the prohibition on alcoholic bottling. The use would be allowed by-right in BU 1-5 and Mixed Use 1-4 for establishments up to 10,000 sq. ft. A special permit would be required for establishments greater than 10,000 sq. ft. The use would also be allowed in Manufacturing and Limited Manufacturing zones with the potential to be used in the proposed VC2 and VC3 Village Center Zoning Districts. All projects would need Licensing Board approval and the current proposal would require parking similar to the current requirements for restaurant and retail uses. According to the report, “Mulitple councilors proposed removing the parking requirement from the proposed ordinance.” The Committee voted to hold 8-0.