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Planning board recommends form‑based code for four Brockton neighborhoods
Summary
Consultants presented a condensed form‑based zoning code covering Downtown/Trout Brook, Campello, Montello and Lovett Brook; the planning board voted unanimously to recommend the amendment to the City Council and will review design guidelines on May 5.
Consultant Emily Keys Innis of Innis Land Strategies Group presented an abridged form‑based code to the Brockton Planning Board on April 7, describing a three‑document package: the Muni Code text, an illustrative version for public use, and design guidelines that the planning board is authorized to adopt.
Innis said the code focuses on building form and streetscape, not just uses, and explained that the text version must match the Muni Code while the illustrative version will be easier for applicants and the public to use. "The form based code focuses very much on what the buildings and the streetscape look like," she said, and noted the code includes mandatory development standards, a green‑score resiliency metric and an incentive zoning point system for public benefits.
Board members asked about specific parcels and recent map updates. In response to a question about an excluded parcel near the CSX yard, Innis replied that maps have been updated and "that building is now included." She also explained that a parcel‑level zoning change (for example, from MX1 to MX3) would begin with city staff and require City Council action with Planning Board input.
The board opened the item for public comment; none was offered. The Planning Board then moved to recommend the zoning amendment favorably to City Council. A roll‑call vote was unanimous: Marty, Matthew, James, Yolanda and Chair Tony Gonzalez voted yes.
The City Council has held a first reading and the item will go to the Ordinance Committee next. The consultants said they will return to the Planning Board on May 5 to present the draft design guidelines for review.
