Selectboard hears Act 181 briefing; board tables motion to join letter-writing effort

Laurie Nau-Martocci briefed the Selectboard on Act 181, telling the board that the law modifies Act 250 with the goal of increasing housing and that Brookline falls into Tiers 2 and 3. She said one practical effect is that private roads more than 800 feet from existing roads may trigger Act 250 review, and that the cost of obtaining Act 250 permits can be a barrier for average-income residents. Nau-Martocci provided sample letters used by other selectboards and asked Brookline to consider sending a letter to the State or to local representatives asking for repeal or adjustment of provisions affecting rural tiers.

Following discussion, Mike DeSocio moved that the Selectboard participate in the letter-writing process; Doug Wellman seconded. The board determined it needed additional information and voted to table the motion; the tabling motion passed unanimously.