Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Use Zoning topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Debate over soccer club at Moose Mountain spotlights zoning definitions, site-plan review and neighbor notice
Summary
A request to host a private soccer club at Moose Mountain prompted a lengthy Selectmen discussion about whether the activity needs a minor site-plan review, how "club" is defined in the town ordinance, and how neighbors should be notified.
A proposal to host a private soccer club at Moose Mountain generated an extended debate at the Selectmen’s meeting about permitting, notification and the role of the planning board.
A representative for the prospective club asked whether the group could use Moose Mountain (the town’s recreational property) for practice and games. Selectmen and planning-related staff said that while "club" is a permitted use in the town’s zoning list, the specific activity (soccer) was not spelled out and the neighbors should understand the scope of use—how many games, expected attendance, parking and whether lighting or other infrastructure would be added. Several Selectmen said the approved uses list was created in 2010 and can be ambiguous; they recommended a minor site-plan review so the planning board can outline the scope, parking plan and neighbor notification.
Selectmen recalled a prior public hearing and an agreement that certain uses require an additional review if they differ materially from the uses approved in an earlier site plan. Town staff and board members said the appropriate, practical path is a short (modified) site-plan review that documents the activity schedule, parking and any infrastructure needs so neighbors will be informed and the town can confirm the activity fits the prior site approvals. One Selectman urged speed to provide clarity to the club and neighbors; the board agreed to consult with the town attorney and hold a special meeting within about a week to finalize guidance.
Why it matters: The exchange highlights how apparently permitted activities can still trigger additional administrative review to protect neighbors and ensure the town’s rules are followed. The board’s direction affects whether the club can begin using town property and how the town documents and enforces conditions.
Next steps: The Selectmen will meet with the town attorney (nonpublic legal consultation if needed), and then publicly decide whether a minor site-plan review is required; town staff were asked to prepare an application checklist for a modified/mini site-plan review so the club can move quickly through permitting.
