Zoning & Planning voted to approve the following (see Report and watch NewTV video):
- Reappointment of Jennifer Pucci to the Zoning Board of Appeals: Approved for a term set to expire on April 19, 2025. Ms. Pucci shared her litigation background and experience with the city’s Law Department, emphasizing her commitment to public service and the quasi-judicial function of the ZBA. (7-0)
- Adoption of an ordinance requiring electrification of all new construction and substantial renovations: Approved as part of the City’s participation in the Ten Communities Program by the DOER, aiming for all-electric new construction and renovations starting January 1, 2025. The ordinance reflects concerns from public hearings and consultations with the Co-Director of Sustainability, without exemption for existing gas stoves in substantial renovations. (7-0)
- Reappointment of Judy Weber to the Newton Affordable Housing Trust: Approved for a term set to expire on March 21, 2026. (6-0, Councilor Albright Not Voting)
- Reappointment of John Downie to the Urban Design Commission: Approved for a term set to expire on March 31, 2027. (6-0, Councilor Albright Not Voting)
Zoning & Planning voted to hold the following:
- Amendment to require a special permit for retaining walls over 4 feet: Discussion on requiring a special permit for retaining walls over 4 feet in height, addressing issues of grade changes and stormwater runoff. The discussion includes criteria for granting a special permit. Public hearing set for 04/08/24. (7-0)
- Discussion on amending Newton Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 30: Addressing clarifications, corrections, and revisions to inconsistencies in the ordinance, with a public hearing set for 04/08/24. (7-0)
- Amendments to promote small businesses: Considering amendments to support and incentivize small businesses, with potential zoning adjustments to encourage personal instruction uses with specific conditions. Public hearing set for 04/08/24. (7-0)
- Enhancement of existing home preservation: Exploring options to preserve existing homes and address concerns over demolition and new construction impacts. Discussion includes potential ordinance amendments and incentives for deconstruction over demolition. (6-0, Councilor Albright Not Voting)
- Adjustment of setbacks in MR zones to encourage preservation: Joint discussion with item #85-24 on amending metrics in multi-residence zones to better regulate new building sizes, promote a range of housing options, and incentivize the preservation of existing housing stock. (6-0, Councilor Albright Not Voting)