Tamworth Planning Board reviews subdivision-definition edits; recommends 750 sq ft ADU

At a work session on April 15, the Tamworth Planning Board reviewed a circulated draft of proposed revisions to definitions in the town’s Subdivision Regulations and made several edits in real time.

Lianne Prentice, the Selectboard representative, said she had sent the draft document to members earlier the same day and guided the board through the changes. The board discussed definitions for "dwelling," "dwelling unit" and a newly proposed "unit" entry; the members agreed that the definition of unit should be broader and that some duplicated or narrower language needed to be removed.

The board considered an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) definition pulled from the State definition and recommended a 750-square-foot size as a guideline. Anna Paddock suggested adding language about water and electrical hookups where campsite-type provisions are discussed before the board ultimately agreed to remove the campsite definition from the draft.

Members also noted editorial and structural edits: the cover page was revised to add a "Lot Use" heading; the "site" definition was consolidated from prior feedback; and a reference labeled "State Code" in one section was changed to read "Fire Code." Board members requested clarification of application procedures, specifically who is responsible for sending submitted plans to the Fire Chief.

The work session concluded with a motion to adjourn. Matt Dunn moved to adjourn at 6:43 p.m.; Larry Nickerson seconded, and the meeting was adjourned. The minutes were submitted by Melissa Donaldson, Planning Board Clerk.

Next steps: the board made live edits to the draft and did not record final votes on the regulatory language at this session; the revised draft will return for further review and for formal action at a subsequent meeting.