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Select Board to ask planning board to present proposed townwide ban on visible storage of heavy equipment
Summary
The planning board has proposed revising Sheffield’s zoning bylaw to prohibit storage of heavy construction vehicles visible from public highways or adjacent properties townwide; a select board member who farms urged caution, citing the Right-to-Farm law and potential burden on local businesses.
The Select Board on Sept. 8 discussed a planning board proposal to change Sheffield’s zoning bylaw so that the storage or placement of heavy vehicles associated with construction businesses that are visible from public highways or adjacent properties would be prohibited townwide.
A board member who identified himself as a farmer objected to expanding the visibility restriction beyond the rural district, saying the proposal could create burdens for farmers and small construction businesses and that the Right-to-Farm law offers protections. The member said, “I don't think Sheffield has ever been ashamed of their working-ass roots,” and warned the change could require businesses to “hide everything they’re doing.”
Board members said they would prefer to hear from the planning board directly; the Select Board agreed to invite planning board representatives to the next meeting to explain the proposal and to wait for a public hearing before taking action. The planning board signaled it intends to hold a public hearing and requested preliminary feedback from the Select Board before that hearing.
No change was adopted at the Sept. 8 meeting; the Select Board tabled action pending a planning board presentation and a public hearing.
