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ZBA members debate whether to formalize aesthetics and affordability tests in zoning code
Summary
Board members discussed a proposed ordinance to let the ZBA consider aesthetics and the possible inclusion of an "affordability" criterion; members split between codifying guidance and preserving board discretion.
Toward the end of the March 10 meeting, Zoning Board members discussed a proposed change to the zoning code that would clarify whether the board may consider aesthetics and whether it should explicitly weigh "affordability" when reviewing applications.
One member said he had drafted ordinance language after meeting with city councilors, arguing that putting aesthetic considerations and affordability language into the code would give the board clear authority. "If you want the zoning board to consider these things, you need to put it in the ordinance," he said. Other members warned that over-specific language could remove necessary discretion and urged caution: one member said removing discretion could make the code unworkable and noted that the board has successfully used massing and scale arguments to achieve appropriate outcomes without new law.
The conversation did not produce formal action; members agreed the issue merited further work and suggested any code changes should preserve the board's ability to deliberate case-by-case.
