Commission schedules public hearing on state‑mandated 'middle housing' zoning amendments

Planning staff presented draft zoning amendments intended to implement recent state requirements referred to in the meeting as Public Act 25‑1, which will require municipalities to allow "middle housing" (2–9 units) in commercial or mixed‑use zones and to modify parking standards. The planner described proposed section 4.23 (middle housing), bulk standards (front yard 50 ft; side 25 ft; rear 50 ft), separation between buildings, a 50% impervious coverage cap, and a minimum evergreen buffer along side/rear lines. The planner emphasized the draft aims to keep design standards light and to align with the state definition.

A major change required by the state is the elimination of mandatory minimum on‑site parking for residential developments of 16 units or fewer; state ratios would still apply for larger developments. Commissioners discussed the geographic scope (business district along Route 6), whether to remove a current prohibition on housing in the business district, and how health and septic constraints might limit achievable density. After discussion, the commission voted to schedule a public hearing on the draft regulations for the next regular meeting, August 18 (motion passed 5‑0).