The Town of Yarmouth Planning Board convened on November 13, 2024, to discuss significant amendments to zoning laws aimed at enhancing affordable housing options in the community. The meeting, chaired by Joanne Crowley, focused primarily on Article 13, which proposes changes to the methodology for determining the median sale price of homes, a critical factor in calculating fees for affordable housing units.

The proposed amendment seeks to revise the existing zoning bylaw section 4.12, which currently relies on data from the Warren Group to establish median sale prices. Board members expressed concerns about the potential limitations of exclusively referencing one data source. To address these concerns, the amendment introduces more flexible language, allowing for the inclusion of "other available comparable data" alongside the Warren Group. This change aims to future-proof the regulations against any shifts in data sources, ensuring that the town can adapt to new and potentially better data providers without needing further amendments.

The board unanimously approved the revised language for Article 13, reflecting a collaborative effort to enhance the town's approach to affordable housing. This decision is particularly relevant given the ongoing discussions about housing affordability in Yarmouth, where demand continues to rise.

In addition to the main agenda item, the board confirmed the dates for upcoming meetings, with a special town meeting scheduled for January 29, 2025, and a backup date of February 5, 2025. These meetings will further address housing and zoning issues, underscoring the town's commitment to engaging the community in these critical discussions.

The Planning Board's actions signal a proactive approach to addressing housing challenges in Yarmouth, emphasizing the importance of adaptable and inclusive policies in the face of evolving market conditions. As the town moves forward, the implications of these amendments will be closely monitored by residents and stakeholders alike, highlighting the ongoing need for effective solutions to housing affordability.