Public hearing opened on zoning changes to allow limited multifamily in R-10 and R-20 zones; public voices split

The Town Council on Oct. 6 opened a public hearing on proposed amendments to the zoning code that would permit multifamily dwelling structures of three to six units on lots of 40,000 square feet or larger in R‑10 and R‑20 districts, subject to dimensional requirements and a special‑permit process.

Paul Croce, chair of the planning board, said the planning department identified roughly 120 qualifying lots in R‑10 and R‑20 and produced a high‑level estimate that, if every eligible lot redeveloped under the proposed rules, "up to between 500 and 700 dwelling units could be created," depending on unit mix and site-specific constraints such as wetlands. Croce said the planning board believes the changes are consistent with the town’s comprehensive plan but recommended special permits and dimensional limits to provide oversight on a case‑by‑case basis.

Public commentators at the hearing split along the usual lines. Several residents, including Alicia Reyes and Terry Flynn, urged caution, saying the changes could alter the character of existing single‑family neighborhoods, create parking pressures and not meaningfully deliver affordable housing because investor‑owned units may be priced at market rate. Other speakers, including a younger resident with experience in engineering and planning, argued the town needs more housing variety and smaller‑lot density to keep housing affordable and to retain younger residents.

Councilors asked staff to provide a map showing the identified qualifying lots before the next hearing. The ordinance will return for further consideration after the council and planning board review public feedback and the mapping requested by councilors.