Yarmouth planning board advances draft local comprehensive plan; hires consultants for mixed‑use study

The Town of Yarmouth Planning Board on April 16 reviewed draft No. 2 of the town's local comprehensive plan and confirmed consultant work under a community planning grant to develop mixed‑use guidance for Route 28 and other village areas.

The discussion identified key issues — drinking‑water contamination (including PFAS), freshwater‑pond deterioration, wastewater and denitrification goals, protection of wetlands and vernal pools, and the need for a clearer vision for redevelopment along Route 28. Town planner Kathy Williams, who led the presentation, told the board the consulting teams will deliver benchmarking and design concepts that the board must review before the June 30 grant deadline: "the benchmarking needs to be done by April because that's something that needs to be done for the next consultant," Williams said.

Why it matters: the local comprehensive plan sets the town's policy direction on development, water and wastewater priorities, and climate and transportation resilience. Board members said clearer language and specific action items are needed so the plan guides permitting, public investments and future zoning changes.

Board comments and edits focused on tone and scope. Members…