In a recent town council meeting, officials unanimously agreed to maintain the existing building height restrictions in Brighton, opting not to adopt proposed changes to the height measurement standards. Council member Jeff Bossard made the motion to keep the current regulations, which was seconded by Carolyn Cakeby, and the vote passed without opposition. This decision reflects the council's commitment to preserving established guidelines while considering public input.

The council also discussed square footage limitations for new constructions, particularly focusing on a proposed cap of 5,000 square feet for homes in most areas. Peter Canute clarified that the planning commission had previously recommended this cap to address concerns about larger homes exceeding the maximum allowable size, which is set at 10,000 square feet for two-story buildings. The council acknowledged the need for clarity in building regulations to assist residents and developers in planning their projects.

While the council expressed a desire to implement the square footage limit promptly, they also recognized the complexity of establishing overlay zones, particularly in areas lacking comprehensive surveys. The discussion highlighted the challenges of balancing development with community character and environmental considerations, especially in sensitive ecological areas.

Council members emphasized the importance of moving forward with the square footage limit while directing staff to explore the feasibility of overlay zones in future meetings. This approach aims to provide a framework for development that accommodates both growth and the preservation of the town's unique character. The council's decisions reflect a careful consideration of community needs and regulatory frameworks, ensuring that Brighton continues to evolve thoughtfully.