City Council approves special exception for tourist home at 219 Fairgrounds Road

The Plymouth Zoning Board meeting held on July 1, 2025, focused on several key issues, including the approval of a special exception for a tourist home and updates to the board's rules and regulations.

The board unanimously approved an application for a special exception at 219 Fairgrounds Road, allowing the property to operate as a tourist home. Members discussed the potential impacts of the tourist home on the neighborhood, noting that it could pose more of a nuisance than an accessory dwelling unit. However, they concluded that the proposed use would not adversely affect the area or place undue burden on town services. The vote on the application was 4 to 1 in favor, with one member abstaining.

In addition to the application approval, the board reviewed and accepted changes to their rules and regulations. The updates were described as comprehensive and necessary to align with current practices. The board members expressed appreciation for the efforts made to modernize these rules, which will take effect immediately.

A significant portion of the meeting also addressed concerns regarding a recent consent decree related to a local junkyard. Board members expressed dissatisfaction with the town's decision to settle without pursuing legal action, fearing it undermines the enforcement of zoning ordinances. They emphasized the importance of upholding regulations and expressed a desire to communicate their concerns to the select board.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to maintaining community standards while navigating the complexities of local zoning issues. The approval of the tourist home and the updates to the rules reflect ongoing efforts to adapt to changing needs within the Plymouth community.