Chelsea council adopts zoning amendment to allow seafood processing in industrial zone by special permit

The Chelsea City Council voted 10-0, with one member absent, to adopt an amendment to Section 34-300 of the city zoning ordinance that allows seafood processing, packing, packaging, loading and distribution in the industrial zone by special permit.

The amendment was read for a second time during the meeting after a prior public hearing produced no public comment. The council’s action follows a finding that the change “advances an amendment that is a legitimate aspect of public interest” and promotes economic development, as stated in the second-reading materials.

During the public hearing portion of the meeting the council asked if any members of the public wished to speak on the proposal; no one did. The council then proceeded to the second reading and a roll call vote. The roll call recorded 10 votes in favor, 0 opposed and 1 absence; the amendment was adopted.

The ordinance text amends Chapter 34-300 to permit seafood processing and related activities in the industrial zone only when authorized through the city’s special‑permit process. The council did not record a mover or seconder on the floor during the adoption vote in the transcript.

City staff indicated the amendment had received public notice and the council held the required hearings; no effective date or additional administrative steps were specified during the meeting record.

The council’s vote will allow applicants seeking to site seafood processing or distribution facilities in the industrial zone to apply for a special permit and proceed through the city’s permitting review.