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Glocester sets first readings for wide-ranging zoning and subdivision updates required by state law
Summary
The town planner told the council that enabling legislation passed in 2023–2024 requires changes to local land‑use rules; council set first readings for Oct. 17 and public hearings for Nov. 21 after approving a grant extension to complete the work.
Karen Scott, the town planner, told the Glocester Town Council that the General Assembly’s 2023–2024 enabling legislation requires municipalities to change multiple sections of their land‑use regulations. The proposed amendments address zoning definitions, notifications, variances, development plan review, adaptive reuse, subdivision rules and comprehensive‑plan growth centers.
Council approved using a Municipal Technical Assistance Program grant from Rhode Island Housing — a no‑match award — and authorized extending the grant agreement from Oct. 30, 2024 to April 30, 2025 so Weston & Sampson can complete the consultant work without changing scope or budget. The council set a schedule: first readings before council on Oct. 17, advisory opinion before the planning board on Nov. 12 and a public hearing before council on Nov. 21.
Planner Scott emphasized efforts to maximize public notice and input despite state changes that make some procedures administrative; council members expressed concern about state-level impacts to local notice and urged continued public outreach.
