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EVC proposes allowing accessory retail sales at industrial sites to help small manufacturers
Summary
The Economic Vitality Commission proposed a zoning amendment to permit accessory retail sales at industrial and manufacturing facilities (for example, breweries selling merchandise or soap makers selling product on site) subject to size and character limits.
The Economic Vitality Commission proposed a zoning change (Article 43) to allow manufacturers and industrial businesses in certain industrial districts to sell accessory, complementary goods on site — for example, a brewery selling branded shirts or a soap maker selling its own bar soap — subject to size and character limits and existing zoning controls.
EVC Chair Mike Lawson said the change is intended to help small, local manufacturers earn incremental retail revenue without converting industrial parcels to general retail and while preserving scale and character. He presented maps showing industrial areas such as Damon Mill, Bradford Mill and Virginia Road where small‑scale accessory sales could be relevant.
Supporters argued the amendment would make better use of limited commercial space and encourage local shopping without changing the character of industrial zones. The board did not record significant opposition at the public hearing; planning staff and EVC said detailed size and operational limits will be included in the warrant language.
Ending: The Planning Board will carry the amendment forward as a warrant article; EVC and staff will supply clear size limits and examples for the Town Meeting briefing book.
