The Zoning & Planning Committee approved the following (see report and watch the meeting video):
- Appointment of Lori Yarvis to the Economic Development Commission for a term ending on October 30, 2026. She highlighted her extensive experience representing small businesses and her practice in Newton. She committed to recuse herself from any decisions where a conflict of interest may arise. (7-0, Councilor Kalis not voting)
- Request for Discussion and Ordinance to Require Energy Use Disclosure and Reduction (BERDO) for large property owners of over 20,000 square feet (including campuses and large commercial buildings) to support the goals of the Newton Climate Action Plan. The Committee approved a version requiring reporting but did not mandate reductions for large residential buildings until the issue is further studied. See FCN article for more details (5-0-3, Councilors Albright, Kalis, and Krintzman abstaining)
The Zoning & Planning Committee voted No Action Necessary on the following:
- Amendments to require disclosure of any anticipated change in grade as part of a land use special permit application: The Deputy Director of Planning said that work is ongoing to address this issue, including additional training for Councilors, changes to building and special permit applications. It was recommended the item be redocketed for a check-in. (8-0)
Present: Councilors Baker (Chair), Oliver, Albright, Wright, Krintzman, Getz, Danberg, and Kalis
Also Present: Councilors Leary, Block, Greenberg, Farrell, Humphrey, Malakie, and Lobovits
City Staff: Andrew Lee, Senior Assistant City Solicitor; Barney, Heath, Director of Planning;
Jennifer Caira, Deputy Director of Planning; Bill Ferguson, Co-Director of Sustainability; and
Jaclyn Norton, Committee Clerk