Development News for Bellingham, Massachusetts

Maple Street Special Permit: Motion to Approve Rescinded, Project Denied

The Planning Board approved a major modification to a special permit for a project on Maple Street with a 5-0 vote. The decision was initially made to approve, but upon realizing the wording was confusing, the board rescinded the original motion and then passed a new motion to deny the Black Stone Street Improvement Development Plan and Stormwater Management Permit Decision based on a draft denial dated 5/27/2016. Liz abstained from voting due to missing meetings, and Marty abstained from the denial vote. The applicant's project involved street improvements and stormwater management.

Red Mill Subdivision Major Modification Discussed, Continued to June 25th

The Red Mill subdivision major modification request was continued to June 25th. The board discussed proposed changes including converting the drainage system from open swale to closed, and requested a waiver for catch basins with granite curb inlets and a split rail fence around stormwater basins. Concerns were raised about the safety of split rail fences for children. The applicant proposed a phased approach for development, shifting from Certificate of Occupancy to building permits as triggers for phase progression. The board expressed a desire for more detailed phasing and discussion on the character of the neighborhood to avoid a 'cookie-cutter' appearance. Further discussion on phasing and neighborhood character is expected.

Inclusionary Housing Special Permit for Whitman Circle Approved

The Planning Board approved the continued public hearing for the inclusionary housing special permit for Blackstone North Street, 1 to 15 Whitman Circle. The applicant, Ernie Fiterra of Whitman Acres, reappeared for the hearing. The project involves two units that will be accepted by the Select Board on their next agenda. The board signed the decision documents, which will be stamped by the town clerk and mailed to the applicant.

Public Hearing for 316 Hartford Street Continued to June 11th

The Planning Board continued the public hearing for 316 Hartford Street to June 11th at 7:00 p.m. to allow the applicant to address peer review comments. The continuance was approved unanimously with a 5-0 vote.