Newbury considers split opt-in to Tier 1B Act 250 exemption; Selectboard to decide March 25

At the March 19 meeting, Chair Tony O'Meara presented mapping and information about S-325 and related Act 181 changes that would extend Act 250 exemptions and deadlines until 2030 and create a Tier 1B option. The minutes state that "for Newbury, this would exempt both villages," and Mr. O'Meara confirmed that with an opt-in decision the entire village area, not just the village center, would be covered.

Commissioners and residents discussed implications. Dr. Walter Cottrell asked whether areas outside the villages would be affected; Mr. O'Meara said Tier 1B would not impact other areas but raised questions about Tier 2 and 3 effects on rural districts. Michael Thomas asked how the Village Center Designation Program would be affected and noted local needs for water and sewer infrastructure on Bible Hill. The minutes record that Wells River Village affirmed a desire to opt in while Newbury Village appears to wish to opt out; the commission agreed "by consensus" to defer to each village for a recommendation to the Selectboard.

Mr. O'Meara noted a scheduling constraint: "Since the deadline for notifying TRORC of the Town's decision on Tier 1B is the end of March, he confirmed that the Selectboard meeting on March 25 will be the time to make a final decision." The minutes do not record a formal vote by the Planning Commission on the recommendation; the commission agreed to defer to village trustees and the Selectboard for the final action.