HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - TM - 05/01/2017 Index of Articles-Annual Town Meeting May 1, 2017
1. Annual Town Report Adopted
2. Report of Committees No Action Taken
3. Sewer Rate Increase Adopted
4. FY18 Operating Budget Adopted
5. Unpaid Bills of Prior Years Adopted
6. FY17 Supplemental Appropriations Adopted
7. Stabilization and Other Special Funds Adopted
8. Capital Improvements Budget Adopted
9. General Bylaws-Departmental Revolving Funds Adopted
10. Funds for Road Repair and Maintenance Adopted
11. Funds for One Time Cost Items Adopted
12. New Water Main Loop Adopted
13. MGL Chapter 91 Liability Adopted
14. Additional Real Estate Exemptions Adopted
15. Community Preservation Committee Adopted
16. General Bylaws-Denial of Licenses and Permits Adopted
17. Zoning Bylaw Amendment -Temporary Moratorium on Adopted
Marijuana Establishments
18. General Bylaws-Town Finance Director Adopted
19. Sewer Betterment Refund Adopted
20. Amend and Reallocate Special Education Stabilization Fund Adopted
21. General Bylaws-Rights of Way Adopted
22. Zoning Bylaw Amendment- Section 2.1 Definitions Adopted
Definition of Residential Gross Floor Area
23. Zoning Bylaw Amendment- Section 9.7 (8)b- Special Permits Adopted
24. Zoning Bylaw Amendment- Section 2.1 Definitions Indefinitely postponed
Definition of a Dwelling Unit and Family
25. Zoning Bylaw Amendment- Section 4.2 (14)-Inclusionary Zoning Adopted
26. Zoning Bylaw Amendment-Large Home Review Process Defeated
27. General Bylaws - Creation of a Scenic Way Bylaw Adopted
28. Citizens Petition-New Land Alteration Regulations Defeated
29. Citizens Petition-Create a Scenic Roads Bylaw Indefinitely postponed
30. Citizens Petition-Amending the Large Home Review Process Indefinitely postponed
31. Citizens Petition-Amendment of the Table of Area Regulations Indefinitely postponed
32. Citizens Petition-Expansion of Central Cohasset Indefinitely postponed
Waste Water Sewer System
TOWN OF COHASSET
Annual Town Meeting—May 1, 2017
At the Annual Town Meeting held on Monday May 1, 2017 at the Cohasset High School
Sullivan Gymnasium the following articles were contained in the warrant and acted upon as
follows.
Checkers sworn in by the Town Clerk, Carol L. St. Pierre at 6:30 p.m. were Elizabeth Anderson,
Kelly Grech, Rebekah Mattey, Pearl Smith, Kenneth Warner and Lauren Walsh. Tellers Philip
Faulkner, Peter Pearce, Susan Hobson Putziger and Linda Wakeman were appointed and sworn
in by the Moderator Daniel Evans.
The Moderator called the meeting to order at 7:13 p.m. and a quorum of 100 was present at that
time. The registered voters checked in on the voting list totaled 326. Precinct 1 - 210 voters and
precinct 2 - 116.
Citizens recited the pledge of allegiance. A moment of silence was observed for citizens listed in
the memoriam of the town report.
Voted unanimously to dispense with the reading of the call of the Meeting and Return of
Service have been examined by the Moderator and found to be in order.
Article 1: Annual Town Report
To act upon the reports of the various Town Officers as printed in the Annual Town Report for
2016, or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that the reports of the various Town Officers as printed in the Annual Town Report for
2017, be accepted and placed in the permanent records of the town.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 2: Reports of Committees
To hear the reports of any Committee heretofore chosen and act thereon, or to take any other
action related thereto.
Report from the Open Space and Recreation Commission. No further action taken.
Article 3: Sewer Commission—Sewer Rate Increase
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Sewer Commissioners to change sewer
user rates as follows:
Flow-based usage fee: $9.51 per 100 cubic feet;
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or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that the Board of Sewer Commissioners decision to change sewer user flow-based
usage fee to $9.51 per 100 cubic feet be ratified and implemented.
Majority vote required. Motion adopted.
Article 4: Operating Budget
To see if the Town will vote to fix salaries and compensation of Elected Officers, and to see
what sums the Town will vote to raise and appropriate from available funds or otherwise, for the
payment of the salaries and compensation, expenses, equipment and outlays, capital and
otherwise, of the several Town Departments, including the enterprise funds for the Water
Department and Sewer Department, for the ensuing fiscal year, or to take any other action related
thereto.
MOVED that Fifty Million One Hundred Eighty Four Thousand Four Hundred Forty Eight
Dollars ($50,184,448) be appropriated for the Fiscal Year 2018 Annual Town Budget to be
allotted as follows: $92,545 for salaries of elected Town Officials consisting of the Town Clerk
$82,028; Clerk, Board of Registrars (4) at $329 each, total of$1,316; Moderator, $1; Selectmen,
Chairman $1,500; Members (4) at $1,000 each, total of$4,000; Board of Assessors, Chairman,
$1,300; Members (2) at $1,200 each, total $2,400; and the remaining $50,091,903 for Personal
Services, Expenses, and Capital Outlays, interest on Maturing Debt and other charges for
various departments, as is further described in Appendix A in the Warrant, and to meet the
appropriation, the following transfers are made:
$2,288,512 from Sewer Enterprise Revenue,
$5,026,798 from Water Enterprise Revenue,
$65,337 from School Construction Surplus Fund,
$24,747 from Reserve for Community Preservation Debt,
$435,520 from Capital Stabilization Fund,
$75,000 from Title V Betterment Fund,
$58,861 from Sewer Betterment Debt Stabilization Fund,
$12,548 from Sewer Debt Stabilization Fund.
AND $42,197,125 is raised from taxation and other general revenues of the Town.
A 2/3"vote required. Motion adopted unanimously.
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FISCAL 2015 FISCAL 2016 FISCAL 2017 FISCAL 2018 FISCAL 2018
DEPARTMENT BUDGET BUDGET BUDGET REQUESTED RECOMMEN
ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES
TOWN MODERATOR 500 500 500 500 500
BOARD OF SELECTMEN 227,950 230,300 178,130 178,740 178,740
TOWN MANAGER 435,465 306,020 364,928 424,873 424,873
HUMAN RESOURCE
MANAGEMENT 50,000 70,000 75,000 150,000 150,000
ADVISORY COMMITTEE 360 360 360 360 360
RESERVE FUND 200,000 200,000 200,000 225,000 225,000
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE 270,635 270,304 241,283 254,736 254,736
BOARD OF ASSESSORS 221,697 216,608 220,686 229,209 229,209
TREASURER/COLLECTOR 293,397 311,269 305,814 316,923 316,923
LEGAL SERVICES 175,000 175,000 150,000 150,000 150,000
CHIEF TECHNOLOGY
OFFICE 200,000 315,000 360,000 369,000 369,000
TOWN TECHNOLOGY - - 99,000 107,124 107,124
TOWN CLERK 149,865 151,452 1601215 159,115 159,115
PERMITS& INSPECTIONS 170,824 153,296 164,739 230,402 230,402
UNCLASSIFIED 367,210 367,210 408,660 416,240 416,240
ADMINISTRATIVE TOTAL 2,762,903 2,767,319 2,929,315 3,212,222 3,212,222
PUBLIC SAFETY
POLICE 2,246,844 2,265,054 2,337,670 2,409,956 2,409,956
FIRE 2,210,777 2,258,766 2,365,986 2,427,200 2,427,200
BUILDING
COMMISSIONER 137,393 141,449 150,140 151,665 151,665
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EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT 26,000 38,000 38,000 38,000 38,000
HARBORMASTER 109,732 112,693 115,248 116,514 116,514
SHELLFISH CONSTABLE 475 475 475 475 475
PUBLIC SAFETY TOTAL 4,731,221 4,816,437 5,007,519 5,143,810 5,143,810
EDUCATION SERVICES
COHASSET SCHOOLS 16,957,496 17,505,000 18,320,276 18,895,656 18,895,656
SCHOOL SUPPORT
OFFICER - 55,000 75,000 100,000 100,000
SOUTH SHORE
VOCATIONAL 84,721 73,471 84,057 86,158 86,158
EDUCATION SERVICES
TOTAL 17,042,217 17,633,471 18,479,333 19,081,814 19,081,814
PUBLIC
WORKS/FACILITIES
DEPT OF PUBLIC WORKS 973,912 1,182,168 1,201,730 1,237,548 1,237,548
SNOW& ICE REMOVAL 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000
STREET LIGHTING 45,000 45,000 45,000 45,000 45,000
TRANSFER STATION 465,732 469,877 497,416 474,398 474,398
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT 675,777 804,322 946,943 939,026 939,026
PUBLIC
WORKS/FACILITIES 2,285,421 2,626,367 2,816,089 2,820,972 2,820,972
HEALTH &WELFARE
BOARD OF HEALTH 148,280 151,420 1561446 161,405 161,405
ELDER AFFAIRS 384,177 270,990 284,592 281,828 281,828
VETERANS SERVICES 134,250 138,850 138,850 141,592 141,592
HEALTH &WELFARE
TOTAL 666,707 561,260 579,888 584,825 584,825
CULTURE& RECREATION
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LIBRARY 562,873 589,768 614,767 642,587 642,587
RECREATION 113,902 123,417 125,989 130,760 130,760
COMMON HISTORICAL
COMMISSION 50 500 500 500 500
HISTORICAL
PRESERVATION 600 600 600 600 600
CULTURE& RECREATION
TOTAL 677,425 714,285 741,856 774,447 774,447
DEBT SERVICE
DEBT SERVICE 3,262,518 3,167,326 3,166,674 3,077,980 3,077,980
DEBT SERVICE TOTAL 3,262,518 3,167,326 3,166,674 3,077,980 3,077,980
BENEFITS& INSURANCE
PENSION ASSESSMENT 1,591,141 1,706,914 1,880,030 2,296,320 2,296,320
WORKERS
COMPENSATION 122,508 132,619 139,250 198,000 198,000
UNEMPLOYMENT 7,500 7,500 5,000 51000 5,000
HEALTH INSURANCE 3,570,467 4,556,164 4,863,705 5,155,527 5,155,527
LIFE INSURANCE 9,360 9,547 9,738 9,933 9,933
MEDICARE TAX 284,920 302,043 309,594 317,334 317,334
PROPERTY& LIABILITY
INSURANCE 295,301 296,080 310,884 326,428 326,428
BENEFITS& INSURANCE
TOTAL 5,881,197 7,010,867 7,518,201 8,308,542 8,308,542
GENERAL FUND GRAND
TOTAL 37,309,609 39,297,332 41,238,875 43,004,612 43,004,612
SEWER ENTERPRISE
FUND (indirect costs included 2,242,921 2,555,842 2,480,061 2,259,706 2,259,706
WATER ENTERPRISE
FUND (indirect costs included 4,702,202 4,809,235 4,732,880 4,920,130 4,920,130
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Article 5: Unpaid Bills from Previous Years
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, and/or
borrow,pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum or sums of money, to be expended by the Town
Manager, to pay for unpaid bills of the Town, the Water Commission and/or Sewer Commission
from previous fiscal years, or to take any other action related thereto.
Department Vendor Amount Description
Facilities National Grid $5,117.03 Senior Center Electricity
for 4th quarter FYI 6
MOVED that the following unpaid bills of the Town from previous fiscal years, be paid, as
follows:
Department Vendor Amount Description
Facilities National Grid $5,117.03 Senior Center Electricity
for 4th quarter FY 16
AND to meet this appropriation, Five Thousand One Hundred Seventeen Dollars and Three
Cents ($5,117.03) be appropriated and transferred from available Free Cash (Undesignated Fund
Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
An 8/10"vote required. Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 6: Supplemental Appropriations for Fiscal 2017
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable statute
and/or transfer from available funds, a sum or sums of money, to be expended by the Town
Manager, needed by various departmental budgets and appropriations to complete the fiscal year
ending June 30, 2017 or to decrease or otherwise adjust any budget line item as appropriated by
the town at the May 2, 2016 Annual Town Meeting or the November 28, 2016 Special Town
Meeting, or to take any other action related thereto.
Action Amount From I To
Supplemental $80,000 Free Cash Budget
Appropriation:
Snow & Ice removal
Supplemental $25,175 Free Cash Debt Service (Bound Brook
Appropriation: Proj ect)
Debt Service
Supplemental $7,291 Free Cash Budget
Appropriation:
Workers Comp
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MOVED that One Hundred Twelve Thousand Four Hundred Sixty Six Dollars ($112,466.00) be
hereby appropriated for the items set forth below amending the amounts appropriated by the
Town pursuant to the 2016 Annual Town Meeting held on May 2, 2016 and/or the Special Town
Meeting held on November 28, 2016, which funds are to be expended by the Town Manager, to
supplement certain departmental budgets and appropriations and to fund other deficits below to
complete the fiscal year ending June 30, 2017 as follows:
Action Amount From To
Supplemental $80,000 Free Cash General Fund Budget:
Appropriation: (Undesignated Fund Balance) Snow & Ice
Snow&Ice removal
Supplemental $25,175 Free Cash General Fund Budget:
Appropriation: (Undesignated Fund Balance) Debt Service:
Debt Service
Supplemental $7,291 Free Cash General Fund Budget:
Appropriation: (Undesignated Fund Balance) Workers Compensation
Workers Comp
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 7: Stabilization and other Special Funds
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds and/or
borrow pursuant to any applicable statute a sum of money to be deposited into the Capital
Stabilization Fund, the OPEB Trust Fund, the General Stabilization Fund, the Sewer Capital
Stabilization Fund, or to take any other action related thereto.
Amount Source of Funds Fund
$50,000 General Revenues 1. General Stabilization Fund
$1,070,000 General Revenues 2. Capital Stabilization Fund
$100,000 General Revenues 3. OPEB Trust Fund
$400,000 Sewer Retained Earnings 4. Sewer Capital Stabilization
$200,000 Sewer Debt Stabilization 5. Sewer Capital Stabilization
MOVED that the following amounts be appropriated to be deposited in the following
stabilization and other special funds:
Amount Source of Funds Fund
$50,000 General Revenues 1. General Stabilization Fund
$1,070,000 General Revenues 2. Capital Stabilization Fund
$100,000 General Revenues 3. OPEB Trust Fund
$400,000 Sewer Retained Earnings 4. Sewer Capital Stabilization
$200,000 Sewer Debt Stabilization 5. Sewer Capital Stabilization
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AND TO meet these appropriations, One Million Two Hundred Twenty Thousand Dollars
($1,220,000) be raised and appropriated from taxation and other general revenues of the Town,
Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) be transferred from Sewer Retained Earnings, and
Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200,000)be transferred from Sewer Debt Stabilization.
A 2/3"vote required. Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 8: Capital Improvements Budget
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, and/or
borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money to fund various capital improvements,
capital projects and/or capital equipment for the various departments, boards, commissions and
agencies of the Town, or to take any other action related thereto.
A.
Entity Purpose Amount
School Bus Lease $87,000
School Digital Learning $45,009
School Chrome Books $30,000
School School Security $64,000
School Teacher Desks $18,125
DPW Heavy Haul Tractor Lease $41,760
DPW Sidewalk Snow Removal Equipment $50,000
DPW Dump Truck Body $20,000
DPW Recycling Transfer Facility Roof $30,000
Fire Front Line Pumper $600,000
Police Front Line Cruiser $42,435
Police Front Line Cruiser $42,435
Library Audio Visual $17,000
Harbormaster GPS/Radar Replacement $15,000
IT Network Switches, etc. $28,000
IT Upgrade old devices $25,000
IT Security Cameras $56,000
IT GIS Flyover $36,000
Total—ATM 2017 $1,247,764
B.
And to request an increase of borrowing authorization in the amount of$406,000 for the Bound
Brook Project as originally approved in Article 11 of the 11/17/14 Special Town Meeting.
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MOVED that
A. One Million Two Hundred Forty Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty Four Dollars
($1,247,764.00) be appropriated to be spent by the Town Manager with the approval of
the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of purchasing certain items or services relating to
capital or property, as set forth below;
Department Purpose Amount
School Bus Lease $87,000
School Digital Learning $45,009
School Chrome Books $30,000
School School Security $64,000
School Teacher Desks $18,125
DPW Heavy Haul Tractor Lease $41,760
DPW Sidewalk Snow Removal Equipment $50,000
DPW Dump Truck Body $20,000
DPW Recycling Transfer Facility Roof $30,000
Fire Front Line Pumper $600,000
Police Front Line Cruiser $42,435
Police Front Line Cruiser $42,435
Library Audio Visual $17,000
Harbormaster GPS/Radar Replacement $15,000
IT Network Switches, etc. $28,000
IT Upgrade old devices $25,000
IT Security Cameras $56,000
IT GIS Flyover $36,000
Total—ATM 2017 $1,247,764
AND
B. The appropriation for the Bound Brook Project as originally approved in Article 11 of the
November 17, 2014 Special Town Meeting, be increased in the amount of$406,000, and
to meet this appropriation, the intent is that the borrowing authorization previously voted
by the Town be increased by the same amount of$406,000 as accomplished below;
AND to meet these appropriations,
Funds totaling $338,406.61 available in the following accounts shall be transferred,
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$426.50 Building Interconnectivity Article 7, April 22, 2013 ATM
$20,000.00 Asset List Compilation Article 7,April 28, 2014 ATM
$65,250.00 Pumpout Boat Article 7, April 28, 2014 ATM
$15,278.68 Osgood School Fire Alarm Article 7, April 28, 2014 ATM
$46,121.62 Osgood School HVAC Controls Article 7,April 28, 2014 ATM
$650.00 Town Clerk Voting Tabulator Article 8, May 2, 2015 ATM
$179,737.92 Refurbish Fire Rescue Pumper Article 8, May 2, 2015 ATM
$946.79 Powered Ambulance Cot/Loader Article 8, May 2, 2015 ATM
$9,506.26 IT/Digital Learning Article 8, May 2, 2015 ATM
$441.01 Police Unmarked Cruiser Article 10, May 2, 2016 ATM
$28.73 Police Tasers Article 10, May 2, 2016 ATM
$19.10 ALS Lucas Compression System Article 10, May 2, 2016 ATM
And an additional $489,357.39 shall be transferred from the Capital Stabilization Fund,
And the Treasurer of the Town, with approval by the Board of Selectmen, be authorized to
borrow $826,000 ($420,000 for the Front Line Pumper, and $406,000 for Bound Brook) and
issue bonds and notes of the Town therefore.
Provided, however that the amounts listed above for particular projects in Section A are not to be
construed as individual appropriations but instead the sums shown are intended to be estimates of
individual projects but the amount appropriated is one line item in the total sum of
$1,247,764.00. The Town Manager, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, is hereby
authorized to distribute such funds in such a manner as may be needed to accomplish the
forgoing list of projects, provided further, however, that the excess funds are available because
one or more items cost less than estimated and not because an item intended to be procured is not
so procured.
A 2/3"vote is required. Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 9: General Bylaws—Departmental Revolving Funds
To see if the Town will vote to amend the General Bylaws by adding a new ARTICLE VI,
Section 10 as follows, and to set the funding limits for the Town's revolving fund for FYI 8, or to
take any other action related thereto:
SECTION 10. DEPARTMENTAL REVOLVING FUNDS
A. Purpose. This Section 10 establishes and authorizes revolving funds for use by town,
departments,boards, committees, agencies and officers in connection with the operation of
programs or activities that generate fees, charges or other receipts to support all or some of
the expenses of those programs or activities. These revolving funds are established under
and governed by General Laws Chapter 44, § 53E1/z.
B. Expenditure Limitations. A department or agency head, board, committee or officer may
incur liabilities against and spend monies from a revolving fund established and
authorized by this by-law without appropriation subject to the following limitations:
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i. Fringe benefits of full-time employees whose salaries or wages are paid
from the fund shall also be paid from the fund.
ii. No liability shall be incurred in excess of the available balance of the
fund.
iii. The total amount spent during a fiscal year shall not exceed the amount authorized by
Annual Town Meeting on or before July 1 of that fiscal year, or any increased amount
of that authorization that is later approved during that fiscal year by the Board of
Selectmen and Advisory Committee.
C. Interest. Interest earned on monies credited to a revolving fund established by this Section
10 shall be credited to the General Fund.
D. Procedures and Reports. Except as provided in General Laws Chapter 44, § 53E%2 and this
Section 10, the laws, charter provisions, by-laws, rules,regulations,policies or procedures
that govern the receipt and custody of town monies and the expenditure and payment of
town funds shall apply to the use of a revolving fund established and authorized by this by-
law. The Town Accountant shall include a statement on the collections credited to the fund,
the encumbrances and expenditures charged to each fund and the balance available for
expenditure in the regular report the Town Accountant provides the department,board,
committee, agency or officer on appropriations made for its use.
E. Authorized Revolvin!Funds. The Table set forth in this sub-section 10E establishes:
i. Each revolving fund authorized for use by a town
department, board, committee, agency or officer,
ii. The department or agency head, board, committee
or officer authorized to spend from each fund,
iii. The fees, charges and other monies charged and received by the department,board,
committee, agency or officer in connection with the program or activity for which the
fund is established that shall be credited to each fund by the Town Accountant,
iv. The expenses of the program or activity for which each fund may be used,
v. Any restrictions or conditions on expenditures from each fund;
vi. A n y reporting or other requirements that apply to each fund and
vii. The fiscal years for which each fund shall operate under this Section 10.
Revolving Spending Revenue Allowed Fiscal Years
Fund Authority Source Expenses
Conservation& Town Manager,up Conservation Fees, Salaries or wages of FY 2018 and Subsequent
Storm water to$100,000 Storm water Conservation Agent Fiscal Years
Permit Fees and staff,expenses&
contractual services
Food Permits Director of Public Food Permit Fees Inspectional services FY 2018 and Subsequent
Health,with Town and salaries; Fiscal Years
Manager approval, educational
up to$50,000 programs
Elder Affairs Director of Elder Elder Affairs Expenses,supplies FY 2018 and Subsequent
Programs Affairs,with Town Program Fees and contractual Fiscal Years
Manager approval, services to conduct
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up to$100,000 programs and trips
Recreation Director of Recreation Salaries,expenses, FY 2018 and Subsequent
Programs Recreation,with Program Fees supplies,and Fiscal Years
Town Manager contractual services
approval,up to
$900,000
MOVED, that the General Bylaws be amended by adding a new ARTICLE VI, Section 10, as
follows in Part A, and that the Town authorize for Fiscal Year 2018 the funding limits be set for
each fund as noted in Part B;
PART A—BYLAW AMENDMENT
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 10: Funds for Road Repair and Maintenance
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds and/or
borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum to be expended by the Town Manager for road
repairs and maintenance projects as identified by the Department of Public Works, or to take any
other action related thereto.
MOVED that Two Hundred Twenty Five Thousand Dollars ($225,000) be appropriated to be
spent by the Town Manager for road repairs and maintenance projects as identified by the
Department of Public Works,
AND TO meet this appropriation, Two Hundred Twenty Five Thousand Dollars ($225,000) be
raised and appropriated from taxation and other general revenues of the Town.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 11: Allocation of Funds for One Time Cost
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, and/or
borrow pursuant to any applicable statute a sum of money for funding one time expenditures and
projects, or to take any other action related thereto.
Amount Source of Project
Funds
$6,000 Free Cash 1. New Fire Hose
$6,000 Free Cash 2. New Motor, Town workboat
$25,000 Free Cash 3. Equipment to permit broadcasting from the Senior Center
$20,000 Free Cash 4. Cohasset Harbor Study(Town Match to State Grant)
Board of Selectmen: For Project Numbers 1, 2 and 4, Recommend Approval by a Vote of 5-0
For Project Number 3, Recommendation at Town Meeting
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Advisory Committee: For Project Numbers 1, 2 and 4, Recommend Approval by a Vote of 8-0
For Project Number 3, Recommendation at Town Meeting
MOVED that Fifty Seven Thousand Dollars ($57,000)be appropriated to be spent by the Town
Manager for the following purposes:
Amount Source of Project
Funds
$6,000 Free Cash 1. New Fire Hose
$6,000 Free Cash 2. New Motor, Town workboat
$25,000 Free Cash 3. Equipment to permit broadcasting from the Senior Center
$20,000 Free Cash 1 4. Cohasset Harbor Study(Town Match to State Grant)
AND TO meet this appropriation, Fifty Seven Thousand Dollars ($57,000.00)be appropriated
from Free Cash(Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 12: New Water Main Loop
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable statute
and/or transfer from available funds, a sum or sums of money, for the Water Commission and the
Town Manager to jointly expend to install a new water main loop, or to take any other action
related thereto.
Amount Source of Funds Project
$400,000 Water Department Retained Water Main Loop
Earnings
The funds would be used to install a new water main loop from Lincoln Lane to Ledgewood
Farm Drive. The loop will improve the water quality in the area as it ages at the end of the line.
It will also ensure continuous water supply in the event of a water main break in the South Main
Street and the area South of Beechwood Street. This has been on the Water Department's
System Capital Improvement Plan for 10+years.
MOVED that Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000.00) be appropriated to be spent by the
Town Manager and the Water Commissioners jointly for the purpose of installing a new water
main loop, and to meet such appropriation, Four Hundred Thousand ($400,000.00)be transferred
from the retained earnings of the Water Department.
Motion adopted unanimously.
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Article 13: Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 91 Liability
To see if the Town will vote to assume liability in the manner provided by the MGL Chapter 91,
Section 29, as amended, for all damages that may be incurred by the work to be performed by the
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for the improvement, development
maintenance, and protection of tidal and non-tidal rivers and streams, great ponds, harbors,
tidewaters, foreshores, and shores along a public beach in accordance with Section 11 of said
Chapter 91 and to authorize the Selectmen to execute and deliver bond on indemnity therefore to
the Commonwealth, or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that liability be assumed by the Town of Cohasset in the manner provided by the
MGL Chapter 91, Section 29, as amended, for all damages that may be incurred by the work to
be performed by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for the
improvement, development maintenance, and protection of tidal and non-tidal rivers and streams,
great ponds, harbors, tidewaters, foreshores, and shores along a public beach in accordance with
Section 11 of said Chapter 91 and that the Board of Selectmen be hereby authorized to execute
and deliver bond on indemnity therefore to the Commonwealth
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 14: Additional Real Estate Exemptions
To see if the town will vote to accept Section 4 of Chapter 73 of the Acts of 1986 to grant an
additional real estate tax exemption of not more than one hundred percent (100%). Such
additional exemption may be granted to persons who qualify for property tax exemptions under
clauses 17, 17C 1/2, 17D, 22, 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D, 22E, 37, 37A, 41, 41B, 41C, 42 and 43 of
Section 5 of Chapter 59 of the Massachusetts General Laws and also, to see if the town will vote
to accept the amendment of Clause 41C in accordance with Chapter 184, Section 51 of the Acts
of 2002, to subsequently grant an additional real estate tax exemption of not more than one
hundred percent (100%). Such additional exemption may be granted to persons who qualify for
property tax exemption under clause 41C of Section 5 of Chapter 59 of the Massachusetts
General Laws, or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that Section 4 of Chapter 73 of the Acts of 1986 be hereby accepted to grant an
additional real estate tax exemption of not more than one hundred percent (100%), where such
additional exemption may be granted to persons who qualify for property tax exemptions under
clauses 17, 17C 12, 17D, 22, 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D, 22E, 37, 37A, 41, 41B, 41C, 42 and 43 of
Section 5 of Chapter 59 of the Massachusetts General Laws and further, that the amendment of
Clause 41 C in accordance with Chapter 184, Section 51 of the Acts of 2002, be hereby accepted
to subsequently grant an additional real estate tax exemption of not more than one hundred
percent (100%) where such additional exemption may be granted to persons who qualify for
property tax exemption under clause 41C of Section 5 of Chapter 59 of the Massachusetts
General Laws.
Motion adopted unanimously.
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Proclamation offered by Mary Jo Larson for Shaun Selha.
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Shaun Selha served on the Town of Cohasset's Alternative Energy Committee from July 2012
to August 2016, and during this time demonstrated exemplary leadership, technical expertise in
planning energy efficiency systems, and commitment to the well-being of the Town of Cohasset; and
WHEREAS, Shaun Selha was elected Chairman of the Alternative Energy Committee (AEC) in October
2013, and in this position was fully dedicated to developing an energy reduction plan and five-year
roadmap for the Town of Cohasset's successful application and designation as a Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Green Community; and
WHEREAS, Shaun Selha consistently demonstrated collaborative stewardship, including energy-related
presentations to engage and inform the Board of Selectmen, leaders in other Town boards and
committees, citizens at Annual Town meetings, and students in Cohasset High School; and
WHEREAS,thanks to Shaun Selha's leadership within the Alternative Energy Committee,the Town of
Cohasset is now a designated Green Community, eligible to receive annual state grants for municipal
clean energy and efficiency projects. With this designation,the Town received a first-year grant of
$141,460 in 2016, and is well-prepared to apply for subsequent grants; and
WHEREAS, Shaun Selha's service and citizen leadership are distinguished by his vital contributions to the
Town of Cohasset's long-term energy efficiencies, financial stability and sustainability,the Alternative
Energy Committee now recommends this Unanimous Motion:
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Citizens of Cohasset,assembled here at Annual Town
Meeting hereby acknowledge and affirm,with sincere appreciation,Shaun Selha, Chairman of the
Alternative Energy Committee,for his devoted,strategic service to the Town of Cohasset,which
continues to benefit from the energy conservation measures that he developed, particularly those
contributing to the Town's designation as a Green Community.
GIVEN under our hands and the seal of the TOWN OF COHASSET on this 1st day of May in the year Two
Thousand Seventeen.
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Kevin McCarthy,Chairman
Paul Schubert
Diane Kennedy
Steven Gaumer
Jack Keniley
Proclamation adopted unanimously.
Article 15: Community Preservation Committee
To see if the Town will vote to hear and act on recommendations by the Community
Preservation Committee for Fiscal Year 2018 pursuant to Chapter 44B of the General Laws, also
16
known as the Community Preservation Act: to implement such recommendations by
appropriating and/or reserving a sum or sums of money from the Community Preservation Fund
established pursuant to such Act for (i) the administrative expenses and all other necessary and
proper expenses of the Community Preservation Committee; (ii) the acquisition, creation and
preservation of open space; (iii) the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of
historic resources; (iv) the acquisition, creation, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of
land for recreational use; (v) the acquisition and preservation of historic resources; (vi) the
acquisition, creation, preservation and support of community housing; and (vii) the rehabilitation
or restoration of open space and community housing acquired or created under such Act; upon
the recommendation of the Community Preservation Committee, to amend any votes previously
adopted by Town Meeting on prior recommendations of the Community Preservation
Committee; to authorize the Board of Selectmen with the approval of the Community
Preservation Committee, to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain such real property
interests in the name of or enforceable by the Town, or to authorize the conveyance of such real
property interests, enforceable by third parties, as may be required by the Community
Preservation Act, acting by and through the Board of Selectmen or such other Town board as the
Board of Selectmen may designate, including real property interests in the form of permanent
affordable housing restrictions, historical preservation restrictions and conservation restrictions
that will meet the requirements of Chapter 184 of the General Laws, as may be necessary or
proper to carry out the foregoing; or to take any other action related thereto.
Source of Funds Use of Funds Amount
CPC Revenue 1. Open Space/Recreation Sub-Account $58,313
CPC Revenue 2. Historical Sub-Account $58,313
CPC Revenue 3. Affordable Housing Sub-Account $58,313
CPC Revenue 4. Administrative Sub-Account $29,156
Source of Funds Projects Amount
Affordable Housing 5. Funds for construction of affordable housing $100,000
Sub-Account for disabled adults.
Open Space/Rec Sub- 6. Updating Deer Hill, Osgood, Sohier Street $250,000
Account& CPC and Beechwood Street Playgrounds
Revenue
CPC Revenue 7. Parker Avenue Boat Ramp $50,000
Historical Sub Account 8. Restoration of Maritime Museum $128,500
CPC Revenue 9. Repair Milliken Field Road Fence $12,000
CPC Revenue 10. Repairs to Milliken Field Road Tennis Courts $7,000
CPC Revenue 11. Debt Payment — Land Acquisition, $24,747
Article 12(e) 2004 ATM
MOVED that the recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee be heard and
acted upon as follows:
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That the following amounts be appropriated from the Fiscal Year 2018 Community Preservation
Fund estimated revenues and Sub-Accounts to the Community Preservation Fund accounts and
projects as follows:
Source of Funds Use of Funds Amount
CPC Revenue 1. Open Space/Recreation Sub-Account $58,313
CPC Revenue 2. Historical Sub-Account $58,313
CPC Revenue 3. Affordable Housing Sub-Account $58,313
CPC Revenue 4. Administrative Sub-Account $29,156
Source of Funds Pro'ects Amount
Community Housing Sub- 5. Funds for construction of affordable $100,000
Account housing for disabled adults.
Open Space Sub-Account (A) 6. Updating Deer Hill, Osgood, Sohier $113,465 (A)
CPC Revenue (B) St. and Beechwood St. Playgrounds $136,535 (B)
CPC Revenue 7. Parker Avenue Boat Ramp $50,000
Historical Sub-Account 8. Restoration of Maritime Museum $128,500
CPC Revenue 9. Repair Milliken Field Road Fence $12,000
CPC Revenue 10. Repairs to Milliken Field Road Tennis $7,000
Courts
CPC Revenue 11. Debt Payment—Land Acquisition $24,747
Article 12(e) 2004 ATM
AND, that after June 30, 2019, any residual unexpended portion of the sums noted as items 5, 6,
7, 8, 9 and 10 shall not be further expended and shall be restored to the Community Preservation
Fund from which the funds were drawn;
AND, that for each of the above recommendations, the Board of Selectmen, or such other Town
board as the Board of Selectmen may designate, be authorized to acquire by purchase or gift and
hold in the name of or enforceable by the Town and to grant to a nonprofit organization,
charitable corporation or foundation, such land, real property interests and permanent affordable
housing restrictions, preservation restrictions and conservation restrictions that will meet the
requirements of Chapter 184 of the General Laws, as may be necessary or proper to carry out the
foregoing.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 16: General Bylaws -Denial of Licenses and Permits
To see if the Town will vote to amend Article VI, Section 9.B of the General Bylaws to read as
follows, or to take any other action related thereto:
The Tax Collector or other municipal official responsible for records of all municipal
taxes, assessments, betterments and other municipal charges, hereinafter referred to as the
Tax Collector, shall annually and may periodically furnish to each department, board,
commission or division, hereinafter referred to as the licensing authority, that issues
licenses or permits including renewals and transfers, a list of any person, corporation, or
18
business enterprise, hereinafter referred to as the party, that has neglected or refused to
pay any local taxes, fees, assessments, betterments or other municipal charges and that
such party has not filed in good faith a pending application for an abatement of such tax
or a pending petition before the Appellate Tax Board.
MOVED that Article VI, Section 9.B of the General Bylaws is hereby amended to read as
follows:
The Treasurer/Collector or other municipal official responsible for records of all
municipal taxes, assessments, betterments and other municipal charges, hereinafter
referred to as the Tax Collector, shall annually and may periodically furnish to each
department, board, commission or division, hereinafter referred to as the licensing
authority, that issues licenses or permits including renewals and transfers, a list of any
person, corporation, or business enterprise, hereinafter referred to as the party, that has
neglected or refused to pay any local taxes, fees, assessments, betterments or other
municipal charges and that such party has not filed in good faith a pending application for
an abatement of such tax or a pending petition before the Appellate Tax Board.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 17: Temporary Moratorium on Marijuana Establishments
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town of Cohasset Zoning Bylaws by adding a new
Section 21 as follows, or to take any other action related thereto.
Section 21: Temporary Moratorium on Marijuana Establishments
21.1 Purpose. On November 8, 2016, the voters of the Commonwealth voted in favor
of a ballot initiative petition for a law to regulate the possession, use, cultivation,
production, distribution and sale of marijuana and marijuana products by adults 21 years
of age or older through a licensing program yet to be fully defined and regulations yet to
be adopted. That Law expressly states that municipalities may, among other things,
adopt bylaws that impose reasonable safeguards on the operation of marijuana
establishments, including bylaws that govern the time, place and manner of marijuana
establishment operations and number of marijuana establishments, provided that such
bylaws are not unreasonably impracticable or in conflict with the law or regulations.
Currently under the Zoning Bylaw, marijuana establishments are not a permitted use in the
Town and any regulations promulgated by the Cannabis Control Commission are expected to
provide guidance to the Town in regulating marijuana establishments. Marijuana
establishments are a new use and the regulation of marijuana establishments raises novel and
complex legal, planning, and public safety issues. The Town needs time to study and to
consider addressing such use and issues, as well as the potential impacts of regulations to be
made by the Cannabis Control Commission.
19
The purpose of this section is intended to provide the Town with adequate time to study,
reflect and decide how to govern the time, place and manner of marijuana establishment
operations and the number of marijuana establishments through bylaws that are not
unreasonably impracticable and that are consistent with the Law and the regulations to be
developed by the Cannabis Control Commission to implement the Law.
21.2 Definitions
The following definitions shall apply to this Section 21, inclusive. Other terms that are
not expressly defined herein shall have the definition and meaning given to them by the
Law. All other terms shall be given their ordinary, plain meaning.
"Consumer," a person who is at least 21 years of age.
"Law," Chapter 94G of the General Laws, as implemented by Chapter 334 of the Acts of
2016, as amended by Chapter 351 of the Acts of 2016, as any of the same may
be amended from time to time.
"Manufacture," to compound, blend, extract, infuse or otherwise make or prepare a
marijuana product.
"Marijuana " or "Marihuana," all parts of any plant of the genus Cannabis, not excepted
below and whether growing or not; the seeds thereof; and resin extracted from
any part of the plant; and every compound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture
or preparation of the plant, its seeds or resin including tetrahydrocannabinol as
defined in section 1 of chapter 94C of the General Laws; provided that
"Marijuana" shall not include:
(1) The mature stalks of the plant, fiber produced from the stalks, oil, or
cake made from the seeds of the plant, any other compound, manufacture,
salt, derivative, mixture or preparation of the mature stalks, fiber, oil, or
cake made from the seeds of the plant or the sterilized seed of the plant
that is incapable of germination;
(2) Hemp; or
(3) The weight of any other ingredient combined with marijuana to
prepare topical or oral administrations, food, drink or other products.
"Marijuana cultivator," an entity licensed to cultivate, process and package marijuana, to
deliver marijuana to marijuana establishments and to transfer marijuana to other
marijuana establishments, but not to consumers.
"Marijuana establishment," a marijuana cultivator, marijuana testing facility, marijuana
product manufacturer, marijuana retailer or any other type of licensed marijuana-
related business.
20
"Marijuana product manufacturer," an entity licensed to obtain, manufacture, process and
package marijuana and marijuana products, to deliver marijuana and marijuana
products to marijuana establishments and to transfer marijuana and marijuana
products to other marijuana establishments,but not to consumers.
"Marijuana products,"products that have been manufactured and contain marijuana or an
extract from marijuana, including concentrated forms of marijuana and products
composed of marijuana and other ingredients that are intended for use or
consumption, including edible products, beverages, topical products, ointments,
oils and tinctures.
"Marijuana testing facility," an entity licensed to test marijuana and marijuana products,
including certification for potency and the presence of contaminants.
"Marijuana retailer," an entity licensed to purchase and deliver marijuana and marijuana
products from marijuana establishments and to deliver, sell or otherwise transfer
marijuana and marijuana products to marijuana establishments and to consumers.
"Process" or "processing," to harvest, dry, cure, trim and separate parts of the marijuana
plant by manual or mechanical means, except it shall not include manufacture as
defined above.
21.3 Temporary Moratorium. For the reasons set forth above and notwithstanding
any other provision of the Zoning Bylaw to the contrary, the Town hereby adopts a
temporary moratorium on all uses of land and structures for marijuana establishments
under the Law. Marijuana establishments shall not be permitted in any zoning district in
the Town so long as this Section 21 is effective, as set forth in Section 21.4 below.
Variances for marijuana establishments shall be strictly prohibited.
21.4 Expiration. Section 21 of the Zoning Bylaws and the temporary moratorium
shall be in effect through the end of June 30, 2018.
MOVED that the Cohasset Zoning Bylaws be amended by adding a new Section 21, as follows:
Section 21: Temporary Moratorium on Marijuana Establishments
21.1 Purpose. On November 8, 2016, the voters of the Commonwealth voted in favor
of a ballot initiative petition for a law to regulate the possession, use, cultivation,
production, distribution and sale of marijuana and marijuana products by adults 21 years
of age or older through a licensing program yet to be fully defined and regulations yet to
be adopted. That Law expressly states that municipalities may, among other things,
adopt bylaws that impose reasonable safeguards on the operation of marijuana
establishments, including bylaws that govern the time, place and manner of marijuana
21
establishment operations and number of marijuana establishments, provided that such
bylaws are not unreasonably impracticable or in conflict with the law or regulations.
Currently under the Zoning Bylaw, marijuana establishments are not a permitted use in the
Town and any regulations promulgated by the Cannabis Control Commission are expected to
provide guidance to the Town in regulating marijuana establishments. Marijuana
establishments are a new use and the regulation of marijuana establishments raises novel and
complex legal, planning, and public safety issues. The Town needs time to study and to
consider addressing such use and issues, as well as the potential impacts of regulations to be
made by the Cannabis Control Commission.
The purpose of this section is intended to provide the Town with adequate time to study,
reflect and decide how to govern the time, place and manner of marijuana establishment
operations and the number of marijuana establishments through bylaws that are not
unreasonably impracticable and that are consistent with the Law and the regulations to be
developed by the Cannabis Control Commission to implement the Law.
21.2 Definitions
The following definitions shall apply to this Section 21, inclusive. Other terms that are
not expressly defined herein shall have the definition and meaning given to them by the
Law. All other terms shall be given their ordinary, plain meaning.
"Consumer," a person who is at least 21 years of age.
"Law," Chapter 94G of the General Laws, as implemented by Chapter 334 of the Acts of
2016, as amended by Chapter 351 of the Acts of 2016, as any of the same may
be amended from time to time.
"Manufacture," to compound, blend, extract, infuse or otherwise make or prepare a
marijuana product.
"Marijuana " or "Marihuana," all parts of any plant of the genus Cannabis, not excepted
below and whether growing or not; the seeds thereof; and resin extracted from
any part of the plant; and every compound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture
or preparation of the plant, its seeds or resin including tetrahydrocannabinol as
defined in section 1 of chapter 94C of the General Laws; provided that
"Marijuana" shall not include:
(1) The mature stalks of the plant, fiber produced from the stalks, oil, or
cake made from the seeds of the plant, any other compound, manufacture,
salt, derivative, mixture or preparation of the mature stalks, fiber, oil, or
cake made from the seeds of the plant or the sterilized seed of the plant
that is incapable of germination;
22
(2) Hemp; or
(3) The weight of any other ingredient combined with marijuana to
prepare topical or oral administrations, food, drink or other products.
"Marijuana cultivator," an entity licensed to cultivate, process and package marijuana, to
deliver marijuana to marijuana establishments and to transfer marijuana to other
marijuana establishments,but not to consumers.
"Marijuana establishment," a marijuana cultivator, marijuana testing facility, marijuana
product manufacturer, marijuana retailer or any other type of licensed marijuana-
related business.
"Marijuana product manufacturer," an entity licensed to obtain, manufacture, process and
package marijuana and marijuana products, to deliver marijuana and marijuana
products to marijuana establishments and to transfer marijuana and marijuana
products to other marijuana establishments,but not to consumers.
"Marijuana products,"products that have been manufactured and contain marijuana or an
extract from marijuana, including concentrated forms of marijuana and products
composed of marijuana and other ingredients that are intended for use or
consumption, including edible products, beverages, topical products, ointments,
oils and tinctures.
"Marijuana testing facility," an entity licensed to test marijuana and marijuana products,
including certification for potency and the presence of contaminants.
"Marijuana retailer," an entity licensed to purchase and deliver marijuana and marijuana
products from marijuana establishments and to deliver, sell or otherwise transfer
marijuana and marijuana products to marijuana establishments and to consumers.
"Process" or "processing," to harvest, dry, cure, trim and separate parts of the marijuana
plant by manual or mechanical means, except it shall not include manufacture as
defined above.
21.3 Temporary Moratorium. For the reasons set forth above and notwithstanding
any other provision of the Zoning Bylaw to the contrary, the Town hereby adopts a
temporary moratorium on all uses of land and structures for marijuana establishments
under the Law. Marijuana establishments shall not be permitted in any zoning district in
the Town so long as this Section 21 is effective, as set forth in Section 21.4 below.
Variances for marijuana establishments shall be strictly prohibited.
21.4 Expiration. Section 21 of the Zoning Bylaws and the temporary moratorium
shall be in effect through the end of June 30, 2018.
A 2/3's vote required. Motion adopted.
23
Article 18: General Bylaws—Director of Finance
To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 21 of Article IV of the Town of Cohasset General
Bylaws as follows; or to take any other action related thereto.
By amending "Section 21. Director of Finance/Town Accountant" to "Section 21.
Director of Finance".
By amending subsection(a)by striking"/Town Accountant".
By amending subsection(b)by striking"/Town Accountant".
By amending subsection(c)by striking"/Town Accountant".
MOVED that Section 21 of Article IV of the General Bylaws be amended as follows:
By amending "Section 21. Director of Finance/Town Accountant" to "Section 21.
Director of Finance".
By amending subsection(a)by striking"/Town Accountant".
By amending subsection(b)by striking"/Town Accountant".
By amending subsection(c)by striking"/Town Accountant".
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 19: Sewer Commission—Betterment Refund
To authorize Sewer Commission to appropriate $5,715.11 for the purpose of returning sewer
betterment fee for the property defined as 80 Lantern Lane, Parcel ID: E7-48-026 to Edwin and
Priscilla Daniels located at 18 Roubound Road Norwell, MA 02061, or take any other action
related thereto.
MOVED that $5,715.11 be appropriated from available Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance)
in the Treasury of the Town for the purpose of settlement of a claim relating to the property
defined as 80 Lantern Lane, Parcel ID: E7-48-026, to Edwin and Priscilla Daniels located at 18
Roubound Road Norwell, MA 02061.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 20: Amend and Re-Allocate Special Education Stabilization Fund
To see if the town will vote:
(i)to accept MGL Chapter 40, Section 13E;
24
(ii) to establish a new Special Education Reserve Fund under the Municipal Modernization Act
(MMA) pursuant to Session Laws: Chapter 218 of the Acts of 2016, Section 24 which inserted
new Section 13E under Chapter 40 for unanticipated or unbudgeted costs of special education,
out-of-district tuition or transportation;
(iii) to transfer the existing balance in the Special Education Stabilization Fund established May
2016, from said Special Education Stabilization Fund (MGL Chapter 40, Section 5B)to the
newly established Special Education Reserve Fund(MGL Chapter 40, Section 13E), and
(iv)to terminate the previously established Special Education Stabilization Fund pursuant to
MGL Chapter 40, Section 513,
or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that the Town:
(i) accept MGL Chapter 40, Section 13E;
(ii) to establish a new Special Education Reserve Fund under the Municipal Modernization Act
(MMA) pursuant to Session Laws: Chapter 218 of the Acts of 2016, Section 24 which inserted
new Section 13E under Chapter 40 for unanticipated or unbudgeted costs of special education,
out-of-district tuition or transportation;
(iii) to transfer the existing balance in the Special Education Stabilization Fund established May
2016, from said Special Education Stabilization Fund (MGL Chapter 40, Section 5B)to the
newly established Special Education Reserve Fund(MGL Chapter 40, Section 13E), and
(iv)to terminate the previously established Special Education Stabilization Fund pursuant to
MGL Chapter 40, Section 5B,
A 2/3"vote required. Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 21: General Bylaws -Rights of Way
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town of Cohasset General Bylaws by renumbering
Paragraph (k) of Section 2 of Article III to include a new subparagraph (1) and by adding to the
same section a new subparagraph (2) as follows; or to take any other action related thereto.
(k) (1) Pursuant to the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40, Section 6N the
Selectmen are authorized to provide for the making of temporary repairs to private ways
subject to the following conditions:
(i)Any repairs shall be as determined by the Board of Selectmen;
25
(ii) Drainage facilities shall be included to the extent required by public convenience and
necessity as determined by the Board of Selectmen upon advice from the
Superintendent of Public Works;
(iii) The Board of Selectmen shall make a determination that such repairs are required by
public necessity before such repairs may be undertaken;
(iv) Such repairs shall only be made if the Board of Selectmen receives a petition from
abutter(s)who own at least fifty percent(50%) of the linear footage along such way;
(v) Betterment charges may be assessed by the Board of Selectmen on the abutter(s) of
such way up to an amount equal to the cost of such repairs;
(vi) The Town shall have no liability as a result of any such repairs, except as may be
provided by law, and shall be held harmless on account of any damages whatever
caused by such repairs by agreement executed by the abutter(s) who petitioned
therefore;
(vii) The private way shall have been opened to the public use for two (2) years or more
prior to the undertaking of such repairs;
(viii) The Board of Selectmen may require a cash deposit equal in amount to the
estimated cost of such repairs, as determined by the Superintendent of Public
Works, to be paid to the Town prior to the commencement of such repairs;
(ix) The Board of Selectmen may use any collection process deemed necessary in
collecting from the abutters.
(2) Pursuant to M.G.L Chapter 82, the Board of Selectmen is authorized to lay out, alter and
relocate public ways and private ways, and to order specific repairs for public and
private ways. For owners of any private ways open to the public for public use:
(i) Such owners may petition the Board of Selectmen (a) to lay out, alter and relocate
such private ways, (b)to order specific repairs to such ways, and (c) to place an
article on the warrant to have such ways accepted by Town Meeting as a public way.
(ii) The laying out, alteration and relocation of any private way or portion thereof shall
only cause such private way or portion thereof to become a public way upon the
acceptance by Town Meeting of such lay out, alteration or relocation and the
acquisition by the Town of rights to property for any such way or portion thereof
that is to be a public way.
(iii) Before any such way is entered upon for the purposes of construction, or is closed
up, the persons upon whose application such way was laid out, relocated or altered
or specific repairs are to be made shall give to the Town security satisfactory to the
Board of Selectmen that such persons will indemnify the Town for all damages and
26
charges that the Town is obligated to pay arising from such laying out, alteration,
relocation and specific repairs.
(iv) After due notice and hearing, the Board of Selectmen may determine to approve or
deny all or any part of such petitions in accordance with applicable law and policies
implemented by the Board of Selectmen.
(v) Costs and charges may be apportioned, assessed and collected pursuant to any
applicable law, including as betterments pursuant to G.L. c. 80.
(vi) The Board of Selectmen may from time to time adopt and amend policies and
guidelines to implement their authority hereunder.
MOVED that the General Bylaws, Article III, Section 2, Paragraph K be amended by
renumbering the existing language as subparagraph (1), and by adding to the same section a new
subparagraph (2) as follows:
(k) (1) Pursuant to the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40, Section 6N the
Selectmen are authorized to provide for the making of temporary repairs to private ways
subject to the following conditions:
(i)Any repairs shall be as determined by the Board of Selectmen;
(ii) Drainage facilities shall be included to the extent required by public convenience and
necessity as determined by the Board of Selectmen upon advice from the
Superintendent of Public Works;
(iii) The Board of Selectmen shall make a determination that such repairs are required by
public necessity before such repairs may be undertaken;
(iv) Such repairs shall only be made if the Board of Selectmen receives a petition from
abutter(s)who own at least fifty percent (50%) of the linear footage along such way;
(v) Betterment charges may be assessed by the Board of Selectmen on the abutter(s) of
such way up to an amount equal to the cost of such repairs;
(vi) The Town shall have no liability as a result of any such repairs, except as may be
provided by law, and shall be held harmless on account of any damages whatever
caused by such repairs by agreement executed by the abutter(s) who petitioned
therefore;
(vii) The private way shall have been opened to the public use for two (2) years or more
prior to the undertaking of such repairs;
(viii) The Board of Selectmen may require a cash deposit equal in amount to the
estimated cost of such repairs, as determined by the Superintendent of Public
Works, to be paid to the Town prior to the commencement of such repairs;
27
(ix) The Board of Selectmen may use any collection process deemed necessary in
collecting from the abutters.
(2) Pursuant to M.G.L Chapter 82, the Board of Selectmen is authorized to lay out, alter and
relocate public ways and private ways, and to order specific repairs for public and
private ways. For owners of any private ways open to the public for public use:
(i) Such owners may petition the Board of Selectmen (a) to lay out, alter and relocate
such private ways, (b)to order specific repairs to such ways, and (c) to place an
article on the warrant to have such ways accepted by Town Meeting as a public way.
(ii) The laying out, alteration and relocation of any private way or portion thereof shall
only cause such private way or portion thereof to become a public way upon the
acceptance by Town Meeting of such lay out, alteration or relocation and the
acquisition by the Town of rights to property for any such way or portion thereof
that is to be a public way.
(iii) Before any such way is entered upon for the purposes of construction, or is closed
up, the persons upon whose application such way was laid out, relocated or altered
or specific repairs are to be made shall give to the Town security satisfactory to the
Board of Selectmen that such persons will indemnify the Town for all damages and
charges that the Town is obligated to pay arising from such laying out, alteration,
relocation and specific repairs.
(iv) After due notice and hearing, the Board of Selectmen may determine to approve or
deny all or any part of such petitions in accordance with applicable law and policies
implemented by the Board of Selectmen.
(v) Costs and charges may be apportioned, assessed and collected pursuant to any
applicable law, including as betterments pursuant to G.L. c. 80.
(vi) The Board of Selectmen may from time to time adopt and amend policies and
guidelines to implement their authority hereunder.
Motion adopted unanimously.
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Proclamation offered by Diane Kennedy for Mary E. Granville
PROCLAMATION
Whereas, Mary E. Granville, was first elected to the Cohasset Board of Assessors in May 2003
and has served fourteen years as a member of the Cohasset Board of Assessors; and
Whereas, as a member of the Cohasset Board of Assessors, Mary discharged her
responsibilities with fairness and impartiality; and
Whereas, as an Ex-officio member of the Economic Development Committee of Cohasset,
Mary served one year and discharged her responsibilities with fairness and impartiality; and
Whereas, Mary applied her knowledge of Massachusetts General Laws governing assessing
and her familiarity with the Town of Cohasset to decision making, always in the best interest of
the town and the taxpayers of Cohasset; and
Whereas, Mary with her considerate way and expertise made her an asset to the Board of
Assessors; and
Whereas, such dedication and service to the Town cannot come without great sacrifice to
personal matters and family life; and
Whereas, Mary has lived and served in the community she loves for many years; and
Whereas, the Board of Selectmen now recommends this Unanimous Motion for Commendation
to Mary E. Granville.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Citizens of Cohasset, assembled here at
Annual Town Meeting hereby acknowledge with sincere appreciation the long and
devoted service to the Town of Cohasset and will be ever grateful to Mary E. Granville for
her commitment and dedication to the Cohasset community.
GIVEN under our hands and the seal of the TOWN OF COHASSET on this 1st day of May in the
year Two Thousand Seventeen.
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Kevin McCarthy, Chairman
Paul Schubert
Diane Kennedy
Steve Gaumer
Jack Keniley
Proclamation adopted unanimously.
29
Article 22: Zoning Bylaw Amendment — Section 2.1 Definitions — Definition of
Residential Gross Floor Area (RGFA).
To see if the Town will vote to AMEND the Zoning Bylaws Section 2.1 — Definitions as
follows:
Residential Gross Floor Area (RGFA): The sum of the total Floor Area — Gross, as defined
herein, of the finished area of above grade floors or portions of floors in a ,-esi e+Ai ' stmetwe,
an individual Dwelling Unit, excluding unfinished finished areas with ceiling heights less than
seven (7) feet and etti-R,- unfinished areas of attached or detached garages
with access (doors, driveway) for motor vehicles. As used in these by-laws, the term "finished
area" shall mean the heated enclosed area within a Dwelling Unit that is suitable for year-round
use, embodying walls, floors, and ceiling_s that are similar to the rest of the area within the
Dwelling Unit."
So as to read:
"Residential Gross Floor Area (RGFA): The sum of the total Floor Area — Gross, as defined
herein, of the finished area of above grade floors or portions of floors in an individual Dwelling
Unit, excluding finished areas with ceiling heights less than seven (7) feet and unfinished areas
of attached or detached garages with access (doors, driveways) for motor vehicles. As used in
these by-laws, the term "finished area" shall mean the heated enclosed area within a Dwelling
Unit that is suitable for year-round use, embodying walls, floors, and ceilings that are similar to
the rest of the area within the Dwelling Unit."
Or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that the Cohasset Zoning Bylaws Section 2.1 be amended as follows (removed
language shown with sti4keeut, added language is underlined):
Residential Gross Floor Area (RGFA): The sum of the total Floor Area — Gross, as defined
herein, of the finished area of above grade floors or portions of floors in a residential s*,.,,,,tufe,
an individual Dwelling Unit, excluding tmfiaishe finished areas with ceiling heights less than
seven 7 feet ands unfinished areas of utheated spuee attached or detached garages
with access (doors, driveways) for motor vehicles. As used in these by-laws, the term "finished
area" shall mean the heated enclosed area within a Dwelling Unit that is suitable for year-round
use, embodying walls, floors, and ceilings that are similar to the rest of the area within the
Dwelling Unit."
So as to read:
"Residential Gross Floor Area (RGFA): The sum of the total Floor Area — Gross, as defined
herein, of the finished area of above grade floors or portions of floors in an individual Dwelling
Unit, excluding finished areas with ceiling heights less than seven (7) feet and unfinished areas
of attached or detached garages with access (doors, driveways) for motor vehicles. As used in
these by-laws, the term "finished area" shall mean the heated enclosed area within a Dwelling
30
Unit that is suitable for year-round use, embodying walls, floors, and ceilings that are similar to
the rest of the area within the Dwelling Unit."
A 2/3"vote required. Motion adopted.
Article 23: Zoning Bylaw Amendment—Section 9.7 (8)b— Special Permits
To see if the Town will vote to AMEND the Zoning Bylaws Section 9.7 (8)b Special Permit
Uses as follows:
"b: The If the land W is subject to tidal action or adjacent to tidal waters, the proposed
structure or use is not less than ten feet above mean sea level;"
So as to read:
"B: If the land is subject to tidal action or adjacent to tidal waters, the proposed structure or use
is not less than ten feet above mean sea level;"
Or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that the Cohasset Zoning Bylaws Section 9.7 (8)b Special Permit Uses be amended as
follows (removed language shown with stfikeeut, added language is underlined):
"b: The If the land if is subject to tidal action or adjacent to tidal waters, the proposed
structure or use is not less than ten feet above mean sea level;"
So as to read:
"B: If the land is subject to tidal action or adjacent to tidal waters, the proposed structure or use
is not less than ten feet above mean sea level;"
MOVED that the Cohasset Zoning Bylaws Section 9.7 (8)b Special Permit Uses be amended as
follows (removed language shown with stfikee , added language is underlined):
"b: T4+e If the land 4 is subject to tidal action or adjacent to tidal waters, the proposed
structure or use is not less than ten feet above mean sea level;"
So as to read:
"B: If the land is subject to tidal action or adjacent to tidal waters, the proposed structure or use
is not less than ten feet above mean sea level;"
A 2/3"vote required. Motion adopted.
31
Article 24: Zoning Bylaw Amendment—Section 2.1 Definitions—Definition of Dwelling
Unit and Family
To see if the Town will vote to AMEND the Zoning Bylaws Section 2.1, Definitions by striking
the definition of "DWELLING UNIT" in its entirety and replacing the definition of
"DWELLING UNIT" with a new definition so as to read:
"Dwelling Unit: A single housekeeping unit providing independent facilities for one or more
individuals living together as a single family, including permanent provisions for cooking,
eating, living, sleeping, and sanitation."
And, by striking the definition of "FAMILY" in its entirety and replacing the definition of
"FAMILY"with a new definition so as to read:
"Family:
(a) One or more persons related by blood, kinship, adoption, marriage, guardianship or other
authorized custodial relationship, living together as a single housekeeping unit, including no
more than two domestic or health care workers, and/or
(b) Three (3) or fewer persons not related by blood, kindship, adoption, marriage,
guardianship or other authorized custodial relationship, residing as a single housekeeping
unit, excluding minor children, shall also constitute a family."
Or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that the article be indefinitely postponed.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 25: Zoning Bylaw Amendment—Section 4.3 (14)—Inclusionary Zoning
To see if the Town will vote to AMEND the Zoning Bylaws Section 4.3 (14) Inclusionary
Zoning as follows (removed language shown with strikeout, added language is underlined):
4.3 (14). Inclusionary Zoning. In any residential development of multifamily or- apaAment tmits
containing 5 or more units, proposed onT�2006 within any district with the
exeeption of the VB Distfiet and under any portion of the Bylaw, a minimum of one (1) unit or
ten percent (10%) of the total number of dwelling units, whichever is greater, shall be eligible
"alifieation as required to be a "Local Action Units" (as defined in 760 C.M.R. 45.02 56) in
accordance with the standards and conditions set forth in 760 C.M.R. 45.03 56, so as to be
eligible for inclusion within the "Subsidized Housing Inventory" (as defined in 760 C.M.R.
45.02 56), of the Town. In the event that the 10% calculation results in fractional units, there
shall be a rounding up to the nearest whole number.
Fees-in-lieu-of-units option: If authorized by the Planning Board as an alternative to the
requirements indicated above, an applicant may contribute to the established, "Cohasset
Affordable Housing Trust," to be used for the development of affordable housing in lieu of
constructing and offering affordable units within the locus of the proposed development or at an
off-site locus.
Calculation of fee-in-lieu-of units. For the purposes of this bylaw/ordinance the fee-in-lieu of the
construction or provision of affordable units will be determined as a per-unit cost as calculated
32
from regional construction and sales reports. The SPGA will make the final determination of
acceptable value.
Schedule of fees-in-lieu-of-units payments. Payments shall be made according to the schedule
set forth below. Upon receipt of the payment the Cohasset Affordable Housing Trust shall notify
the Planning Board Office and the Inspector of Buildings. One-half of the cash contribution
shall be made prior to the issuance of a buildings permit for a project. The remainder of the cash
contribution shall be made prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for the project. If a
temporary Certificate of Occupancy is sought by the applicant 10% of the balance of the
remaining cash contribution shall be paid prior to the issuance of such temporary Certificate of
Occupancy with the remaining balance being paid prior to the issuance of the final Certificate of
Occupancy.
If a specific provision of this bylaw or of applicable state or Federal law requires a greater
number or percentage of "Local Action Units" or so-called "affordable housing units" than
required by this provision (for example, Bylaw Section 16, MGL c. 40B), then the greater
requirement shall control.
(4/l/06 Article 13; 11/13/07 Article 4),
Or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED that the Cohasset Zoning Bylaws, Section 4.3 (14) Inclusionary Zoning,be amended as
follows (removed language shown with stfikee , added language is underlined):
4.3 (14). Inclusionary Zoning. In any residential development of multifamily ^r apaftment units
containing 5 or more units, proposed on or- after-cr T y 1, 2006 within any district with the
exeeptienafthe VB Distfiet and under any portion of the Bylaw, a minimum of one (1) unit or
ten percent (10%) of the total number of dwelling units, whichever is greater, shall be fifer
quali fio atio as required to be a "Local Action Units" (as defined in 760 C.M.R. 45.02 56) in
accordance with the standards and conditions set forth in 760 C.M.R. 45.03 56, so as to be
eligible for inclusion within the "Subsidized Housing Inventory" (as defined in 760 C.M.R.
45.02 56), of the Town. In the event that the 10% calculation results in fractional units, there
shall be a rounding up to the nearest whole number.
Fees-in-lieu-of-units option: If authorized by the Planning Board as an alternative to the
requirements indicated above, an applicant may contribute to the established, "Cohasset
Affordable Housing Trust," to be used for the development of affordable housing in lieu of
constructing and offering affordable units within the locus of the proposed development or at an
off-site locus.
Calculation of fee-in-lieu-of units. For the purposes of this bylaw/ordinance the fee-in-lieu of the
construction or provision of affordable units will be determined as a per-unit cost as calculated
from regional construction and sales reports. The SPGA will make the final determination of
acceptable value.
33
Schedule of fees-in-lieu-of-units payments. Payments shall be made according to the schedule
set forth below. Upon receipt of the payment the Cohasset Affordable Housing Trust shall notify
the Planning Board Office and the Inspector of Buildings. One-half of the cash contribution
shall be made prior to the issuance of a building_permit for a project. The remainder of the cash
contribution shall be made prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for the project. If a
temporary Certificate of Occupancy is sought b, t�pplicant 10% of the balance of the
remaining cash contribution shall be paid prior to the issuance of such temporary Certificate of
Occupancy with the remaining balance being paid prior to the issuance of the final Certificate of
Occupancy.
If a specific provision of this bylaw or of applicable state or Federal law requires a greater
number or percentage of "Local Action Units" or so-called "affordable housing units" than
required by this provision (for example, Bylaw Section 16, MGL c. 40B), then the greater
requirement shall control.
(4/l/06 Article 13; 11/13/07 Article 4),
A 2/3"vote required. Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 26: Zoning Bylaw Amendment-Large Home Review Process
To see if the Town will vote to make the following amendments to Section 5.5 of the Zoning
Bylaw, "Large House Plan Review", as follows:
By Deleting Subsections (2)thru(4), and replacing them with the following:
2. Where the RGFA exceeds these limits, the proposed work shall be submitted for a Large
House Site Plan Review by the Planning Board with the objective of making the proposed plan
harmonious with, and not harmful, injurious or objectionable to existing uses in the area. The
Applicant will submit the following minimal information, or such information that may be
required by any applicable Rules and Regulations passed by the Planning Board:
A) a site plan showing the location of the subject house, and the existing and proposed site
conditions, topography, building elevations, extent of shadows cast, setbacks, lot
coverages, floor area ratios, grading and landscape design;
B) for an existing house, photographs of all sides, and for both existing and proposed houses,
a drawn or computer-generated depiction of how the house is proposed to appear post-
construction, including building & siding materials and colors;
C) a map and narrative description of the surrounding neighborhood with data regarding
house styles, house sizes and dimensions, and building & siding materials, and
photographs of all houses within a 300-ft. radius of the proposed house location;
D) a certified list of abutters, as defined herein; and
E) required filing fee.
The Planning Board may, in any particular case where it determines such action to be consistent
with the purpose and intent of the Zoning Bylaw and otherwise in the public interest, waive strict
compliance with these application requirements.
34
3. If changes to a pre-existing, non-conforming house will require a finding or relief under MGL
c. 40A, s. 6 or under Section 8 of the Zoning Bylaw, such relief shall be obtained prior to filing
for Large House Site Plan Review.
4. Review and Decision:
A) The Planning Board shall hold a hearing within 35 days of receipt of a completed
Application. Notice of the hearing shall be sent by mail, postage prepaid, to the abutters and
abutters to the abutters within 300 feet of the property line of the Applicant, as they appear
on the most recent applicable tax list at least 10 days prior to the public meeting. Owners of
land directly opposite the Applicant on any public or private street or way shall be considered
abutters under this Section. The Planning Board may seek the recommendations of other
Town Departments depending on the nature of the application.
B) The Planning Board is not empowered to deny a building permit or prohibit construction of
the proposed house under this Large House Site Plan Review process. As a site plan review
process, its decision shall be either "approved as submitted" or "approved with conditions",
such conditions consistent with the factors listed in subsection(D)below. The Board may not
add as a condition a change to any dimensional requirement of the Zoning Bylaw that is more
restrictive than that the Bylaw would permit as of right.
Q The Planning Board shall prepare its decision and provide it to the Applicant within 21 days
of the close of the public hearing, with copies to the Building Inspector and Zoning Board of
Appeals as may be appropriate. If the Planning Board has not issued its decision within that
time, the project, as described in the submission, shall be deemed approved as submitted.
D) Under Large House Site Plan Review, the Planning Board will consider any or all of the
following factors as are applicable to the proposal:
1) Scale of Buildings. All houses being reviewed shall, as best as practicable,be sited and
constructed in a manner that is consistent with the scale of other structures in its
vicinity through the use, by way of example, of appropriate massing, screening,
lighting, building materials and other architectural techniques such as variation in
detail, form and the use of vegetated buffers.
2) Preservation of Landscape. Unique natural areas, topographic features such as ledge
outcrops, significant trees and landscaping, and historic features shall be saved or
enhanced insofar as practicable.
3) Lighting. Exterior lighting shall minimize the impact on neighboring properties.
4) Open Space. Open space shall be as extensive as is practicable and designed so as to
add to the visual amenities of the neighborhood for persons passing the site or
overlooking it from nearby properties.
5) Drainage. The development shall incorporate measures that are adequate to prevent
pollution of surface or groundwater, to minimize erosion and sedimentation, and to
prevent changes to groundwater levels, increased rates of runoff, and minimize
35
potential for flooding. Drainage shall be designed so that the rate of runoff shall not
be increased at the project boundaries.
6) Circulation. Walkways, drives and parking shall be safe and convenient and, insofar as
practicable, not detract from the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties and Town
streets.
The above criteria may be supplemented by the requirements and criteria of other permits
that may be needed for the proposed house to be constructed. Where another permit is
needed, the Board's conditions hereunder shall defer to, and incorporate by reference,
such permit.
The above criteria may be supplemented by any future specific and applicable design criteria
promulgated by the Planning Board or by the provisions of any other General or Zoning
Bylaw.
5. Revision and Amendment of Plans: Any revision, amendment or new information relating to
an LHR application shall be considered as follows:
A) Pending LHR Applications. Revision or amendments relating to a pending LHR application
that is before the Planning Board for review shall be accepted by the Planning Board as part
of the original submission.
B) Previously Approved LHR Applications. Revisions or amendments to an LHR Application
that has previously been approved by the Planning Board must be submitted to the Board for
a determination as to whether the revisions are major or minor and shall be processed as
follows:
1) Minor. If the Board determines the proposed revisions or amendments to be minor,
the Board shall notify the Applicant within one week of the Board's determination.
2) Major. If the Board determines the proposed revisions or amendments to be major, the
Board shall notify the Applicant within one week of the Board's determination. The
revisions shall then be reviewed in the same manner as the original application
through a hearing.
6. The Planning Board is authorized to promulgate regulations to further application and
enforcement of this bylaw, including but not limited to, regulations setting forth application
procedures and review procedures consistent with this bylaw.
7. Appeals. An Applicant, or any person receiving notice under Subsection 4(A) above, may
appeal the Planning Board's approval as submitted, approval with conditions or plan
modifications to the Zoning Board of Appeals in accordance with Section 12.3 of the Zoning
Bylaw. The appeal review shall be limited to the Planning Board's compliance with the
procedures and review criteria of the Bylaw, and the reasonableness of its decision in light of
the intent of the Bylaw.
Or to take any other action related thereto.
36
MOVED
To see if the Town will vote to make the following amendments to Section 5.5 of the Zoning
Bylaw, "Large House Plan Review", as follows:
By Deleting Subsections (2)thru (4), and replacing them with the following:
2. Where the RGFA exceeds these limits, the proposed work shall be submitted for a Large
House Site Plan Review by the Planning Board with the objective of making the proposed plan
harmonious with, and not harmful, injurious or objectionable to existing uses in the area. The
Applicant will submit the following minimal information, or such information that may be
required by any applicable Rules and Regulations passed by the Planning Board:
A) a site plan showing the location of the subject house, and the existing and proposed site
conditions, topography, building elevations, extent of shadows cast, setbacks, lot
coverages, floor area ratios, grading and landscape design;
B) for an existing house, photographs of all sides, and for both existing and proposed houses,
a drawn or computer-generated depiction of how the house is proposed to appear post-
construction, including building & siding materials and colors;
Q a map and narrative description of the surrounding neighborhood with data regarding
house styles, house sizes and dimensions, and building & siding materials, and
photographs of all houses within a 300-ft. radius of the proposed house location;
D) a certified list of abutters, as defined herein; and
E) required filing fee.
The Planning Board may, in any particular case where it determines such action to be consistent
with the purpose and intent of the Zoning Bylaw and otherwise in the public interest, waive strict
compliance with these application requirements.
3. If changes to a pre-existing, non-conforming house will require a finding or relief under MGL
c. 40A, s. 6 or under Section 8 of the Zoning Bylaw, such relief shall be obtained prior to filing
for Large House Site Plan Review.
4. Review and Decision:
A) The Planning Board shall hold a hearing within 35 days of receipt of a completed
Application. Notice of the hearing shall be sent by mail, postage prepaid, to the abutters and
abutters to the abutters within 300 feet of the property line of the Applicant, as they appear
on the most recent applicable tax list at least 10 days prior to the public meeting. Owners of
land directly opposite the Applicant on any public or private street or way shall be considered
abutters under this Section. The Planning Board may seek the recommendations of other
Town Departments depending on the nature of the application.
B) The Planning Board is not empowered to deny a building permit or prohibit construction of
the proposed house under this Large House Site Plan Review process. As a site plan review
process, its decision shall be either "approved as submitted" or "approved with conditions",
such conditions consistent with the factors listed in subsection(D)below. The Board may not
37
add as a condition a change to any dimensional requirement of the Zoning Bylaw that is more
restrictive than that the Bylaw would permit as of right.
C) The Planning Board shall prepare its decision and provide it to the Applicant within 21 days
of the close of the public hearing, with copies to the Building Inspector and Zoning Board of
Appeals as may be appropriate. If the Planning Board has not issued its decision within that
time, the project, as described in the submission, shall be deemed approved as submitted.
D) Under Large House Site Plan Review, the Planning Board will consider any or all of the
following factors as are applicable to the proposal:
1) Scale of Buildings. All houses being reviewed shall, as best as practicable,be sited and
constructed in a manner that is consistent with the scale of other structures in its
vicinity through the use, by way of example, of appropriate massing, screening,
lighting, building materials and other architectural techniques such as variation in
detail, form and the use of vegetated buffers.
2) Preservation of Landscape. Unique natural areas, topographic features such as ledge
outcrops, significant trees and landscaping, and historic features shall be saved or
enhanced insofar as practicable.
3) Lighting. Exterior lighting shall minimize the impact on neighboring properties.
4) Open Space. Open space shall be as extensive as is practicable and designed so as to
add to the visual amenities of the neighborhood for persons passing the site or
overlooking it from nearby properties.
5) Drainage. The development shall incorporate measures that are adequate to prevent
pollution of surface or groundwater, to minimize erosion and sedimentation, and to
prevent changes to groundwater levels, increased rates of runoff, and minimize
potential for flooding. Drainage shall be designed so that the rate of runoff shall not
be increased at the project boundaries.
6) Circulation. Walkways, drives and parking shall be safe and convenient and, insofar as
practicable, not detract from the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties and Town
streets.
The above criteria may be supplemented by the requirements and criteria of other permits
that may be needed for the proposed house to be constructed. Where another permit is
needed, the Board's conditions hereunder shall defer to, and incorporate by reference,
such permit.
The above criteria may be supplemented by any future specific and applicable design criteria
promulgated by the Planning Board or by the provisions of any other General or Zoning
Bylaw.
5. Revision and Amendment of Plans: Any revision, amendment or new information relating to
an LHR application shall be considered as follows:
38
A) Pending LHR Applications. Revision or amendments relating to a pending LHR application
that is before the Planning Board for review shall be accepted by the Planning Board as part
of the original submission.
B) Previously Approved LHR Applications. Revisions or amendments to an LHR Application
that has previously been approved by the Planning Board must be submitted to the Board for
a determination as to whether the revisions are major or minor and shall be processed as
follows:
1) Minor. If the Board determines the proposed revisions or amendments to be minor,
the Board shall notify the Applicant within one week of the Board's determination.
2) Major. If the Board determines the proposed revisions or amendments to be major, the
Board shall notify the Applicant within one week of the Board's determination. The
revisions shall then be reviewed in the same manner as the original application
through a hearing.
6. The Planning Board is authorized to promulgate regulations to further application and
enforcement of this bylaw, including but not limited to, regulations setting forth application
procedures and review procedures consistent with this bylaw.
7. Appeals. An Applicant, or any person receiving notice under Subsection 4(A) above, may
appeal the Planning Board's approval as submitted, approval with conditions or plan
modifications to the Zoning Board of Appeals in accordance with Section 12.3 of the Zoning
Bylaw. The appeal review shall be limited to the Planning Board's compliance with the
procedures and review criteria of the Bylaw, and the reasonableness of its decision in light of
the intent of the Bylaw.
Or to take any other action related thereto.
A 2/3"vote required. Motion defeated. Seven Voters stood to call for hand count.
Hand count taken. In favor 161; Opposed 105. Motion is defeated.
Article 27: Creation of a Scenic Roads Bylaw
To see if the Town will vote to create a new Article XVII of the General Bylaws, "Scenic Roads
in Cohasset":
Article XVII—Scenic Roads in Cohasset
Section 1. Authority&Purpose:
The Planning Board's authority and jurisdiction shall be consistent with M.G.L. c. 40, s. 15C.
This Bylaw is intended to protect the natural beauty that exists within the rights-of-way of select
public ways designated as Scenic Roads in the Town of Cohasset by providing the necessary
39
criteria and standards for designation of and regulating certain activities within the right-of-way
of a Scenic Road.
Section 2. Definitions:
In the absence of contrary meaning established through legislation or judicial action pursuant to
M.G.L. c. 40, s. 15C, these terms contained in that statute shall be construed as follows:
Abutter: 1) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with the portion of the right of way
containing the proposed Disturbance Area;
2) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with land within the preceding
definition(1);
3) Owners of land directly opposite the proposed Disturbance Area;
4) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with land within the preceding
definition (3);
all definition including abutting owners of another town, if applicable.
Disturbance Area: The area of land within the Scenic Road's right of way where regulated work
is to be performed.
Posting: The marking of a tree or stone wall on the right-of-way on a Scenic Road for the
purpose of a Scenic Road public hearing. For Protected Trees, such marking as described
in M.G.L. c. 87, s. 3. For Protected Stone Walls, a ribbon or other appropriate "flagging"
material temporarily affixed to the stone wall at issue in a Scenic Road hearing and
viewable from the paved road.
Protected Stone Wall: A contiguous arrangement of stone, cut or otherwise, dry-fitted or
mortared, in excess of 20 years of age, or otherwise deemed by the Historical
Commission to be of historical significance, located wholly or partially within, or on the
boundary line of, the right-of-way of a Scenic Road. Includes any of its appurtenances
including but not limited to gates, terminuses, cut granite stone or large individual
stones. Does not include walls constructed of manufactured concrete block.
Protected Tree: Any living Specimen Tree of any size, or any other living tree whose trunk has a
diameter of four (4) inches or more as measured one (1) foot from the ground located
wholly or partially within, or on the boundary line of, the right-of-way of a Scenic Road.
Right-of-way: The area on and within the legal boundaries of the Scenic Road. If the boundaries
are unknown, any affected Protected Trees or Protected Stone Walls shall be presumed to
be within the right-of-way until shown to be otherwise.
Specimen Tree -A native, introduced or naturalized tree which is important because of its impact
on community character, its significance in the historic/cultural landscape or its value in
enhancing the effects of wildlife habitat. Any tree with a dbh of 6" or larger is eligible to
be considered a specimen tree. Trees that have a small height at maturity or are slow
growing, such as flowering dogwood or American holly with a dbh of 4" or larger are
eligible to be considered specimen trees.
Section 3. Procedure for Designation of Scenic Roads:
40
A) A proposal to designate a public way as a Scenic Road may be instigated by any of the
following: the Planning Board, the Board of Selectmen, the Conservation Commission, the
Historical Commission, or by petition of thirty (30) registered voters, half of whom must be
residents of the proposed Scenic Road.
B) The Planning Board shall hold a public hearing on the request for Scenic Road designation
with notice to the Town Clerk, the Board of Selectmen, the Tree Warden, the Department of
Public Works, the Conservation Commission, the Historical Commission, and the Building
Inspector, and advertising twice in a newspaper of general circulation, the last publication at
least seven days prior to the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the
Planning Board shall make a recommendation to the next gathering of Annual or Special
Town Meeting on the merits of designating the proposed way as a Scenic Road.
C) The Planning Board's written recommendation shall address the following criteria:
1)Age and historic significance of affected roads, trees and stone walls;
2) Contribution of the affected trees and/or stone walls to scenic beauty;
3)Exceptional qualities of affected trees in terms of age, spread, species or specimen;
4)Protection of natural resources as well as scenic and aesthetic quality of area;
5) Bordering land uses, nearby architectural features, present and prospective, and how
they impact the importance of retaining the affected trees and/or stone wall;
6) Scenic vistas of the area.
D) The proposal shall be brought forward as a warrant article of the Planning Board with its
recommendation. If the Planning Board recommendation is negative, the proponent of the
designation shall present the proposal at Town Meeting. A majority vote of Town Meeting
will be required. Approval of the designation shall be effective as of the date of Town
Meeting action. Any work not physically commenced as of the date of the designation shall
conform to this Bylaw.
E) Following the designation of a Scenic Road, the Planning Board shall notify all municipal
departments, the Massachusetts Highway Department, the Commissioners of Norfolk
County, all utility companies servicing properties abutting the Scenic Road, and all property
owners along the Scenic Road.
Section 4. Regulated Activity:
The following are the activities regulated under this Bylaw and through the Scenic Road Work
Permit process:
A) Utility & Road Work: Any roadway repair, maintenance, reconstruction or paving work,
utility installation and repair work done within the right-of-way of a Scenic Road by any
person or agency, public or private, including construction of new driveways or
alterations of existing ones to the extent such work takes place within or accessing the
right of-way, and roadside cutting for clearance for vehicles or for improvement of line-
of-sight, except as allowed in the next subsection.
41
B) Cutting or Removal of Trees: The removal of one or more Protected Trees, trimming of major
branches, or cutting of roots to a degree sufficient in the Tree Warden's written opinion
to cause eventual destruction of a tree. Not included is the clearing of nuisance growth,
routine or emergency tree maintenance which removes only permanently diseased or
damaged limbs, trunks or roots and dead whole trees, or thinning out of overcrowded
trees as determined by the Tree Warden, but shall include such cutting or removal done in
contemplation of, or following the repair, maintenance, reconstruction or paving work for
a road.
C) Tearing Down or Destruction of Stone Walls: The defacing, removal, physical covering
(other than naturally occurring plant covering) or rearrangement of at least five (5) square
face feet (height x length of stone wall "face") of a Protected Stone Wall. The temporary
removal of a Protected Stone Wall is permitted without Planning Board approval if the
Department of Public Works (is notified before the work begins. The DPW may inspect
the work upon completion of restoration to confirm proper replacement at the same
location with the same materials in a contiguous and consistent arrangement to the
adjoining stone walls. Repair of a Protected Stone Wall, not involving the tearing down
or destruction of it, is not covered by this Bylaw.
D) Municipal Sidewalks: When construction of a municipal sidewalk within the right of way of a
Scenic Road is deemed a public safety necessity by the Town and its construction has
been approved by Town Meeting, a Protected Tree may be removed if there is no feasible
alternative, subject to the compensation set out in Section 5(H)below.
Section 5. Scenic Road Work Permit:
A) Any work designated under Section 4 above shall be required to obtain a Scenic Road Work
Permit from the Planning Board prior to commencement of the activity, or as soon after an
emergency activity as is possible.
B) Filing Instructions—Any person or entity seeking a Scenic Road Work Permit shall do so on
an application form supplied by the Planning Board, together with the following:
1) a written description and plans or drawings showing the location and the nature of the
proposed Disturbance Area;
2) a statement explaining the purpose and need for the proposed impact upon a Protected
Stone Wall or Protected Tree;
3) a statement outlining possible alternatives, proposed compensatory actions, and
mitigation measures including restoration, to the proposed impact upon a Protected
Stone Wall or Protected Tree;
4) a list, certified by the Assessor's office, of abutters, as defined herein;
5) except in the case of town agencies, a Scenic Road Work Permit fee as specified in
the Planning Board's Fee Schedule;
6) photographs of all Protected Stone Walls or Protected Trees within and adjacent
within 50 feet to the proposed Disturbance Area prior to any work;
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7) any other explanatory material useful to adequately inform the Planning Board and
Tree Warden prior to the public hearing.
C) Posting - A Posting, as defined above, is required at least seven (7) days prior to a Scenic
Road public hearing.
D) Public Hearing - The Planning Board shall hold a public hearing as soon as practical but in
no event later than forty-five (45) days from the date on which the application for a Scenic Road
Work Permit is received unless a longer time is agreed to by the applicant. Notice will be given
by the Board to other Town Departments and the public as set forth in Section 3(B) above.
E) Coordination with Tree Warden—As stated in the Scenic Road Act and whenever feasible,
the Planning Board hearing shall be held in conjunction with that held by the Tree Warden acting
under M.G.L. Chapter 87. In the event of such a joint hearing, the advertisement shall be made
by the Tree Warden or his deputy. Consent to an action by the Planning Board shall not be
construed as inferring consent by the Tree Warden or the reverse, nor shall execution of this
Bylaw in any way lessen the Tree Warden's duties under M.G.L. Chapter 87.
F) Considerations - In acting on a Scenic Road Work Permit, the Planning Board shall consider
the following in making its determination:
1)public safety;
2) scenic and aesthetic characteristics and quality of the area;
3) quality and extent of shade and tree canopy;
4) accident history within five hundred (500) feet of tree(s) and stone walls at issue;
5) commentary contributed by the Tree Warden, town agencies, abutters and other
interested parties;
6)preservation of natural resources and environmental systems;
7)preservation of historical and cultural resources values;
8) compatibility with surrounding neighborhood;
9) recreational uses of the proposed Scenic Road, taking into account the nature and
extent of such uses;
10) relationship of the road design to the standards of the Planning Board's Subdivision
Rules and Regulations but recognizing that a waiver from the standards should be
allowed when a way has been designated as a Scenic Road by the Town Meeting;
11) adequacy and value of compensatory actions proposed, such as replacement of trees
or stone walls or restoration of the same;
12)traffic patterns, volume, congestion and posted speed limit;
13) consistency with articulated Town policies and the Cohasset Master Plan;
14) feasibility for avoiding disturbance to trees or stone walls by proposing a safe
location for a walkway, driveway or road elsewhere; and
15) other sound planning principles and considerations.
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G) Decision - The Planning Board shall make a decision to issue or deny a Scenic Road Work
Permit within twenty-one (21) days after closing the public hearing, and shall be filed with the
Town Clerk within that time. Copies of the decision shall be sent to the applicant, the Board of
Selectmen, the Tree Warden, the Department of Public Works, the Building Inspector, the
Conservation Commission and the Historical Commission. The approval of a Scenic Road Work
Permit shall be valid for one (1) year. Any work outlined in the issuance of a Scenic Road Work
Permit not completed within one (1) year after issuance will necessitate a new and separate filing
for a Scenic Road Work Permit. Appeal of a decision shall be done in accordance with the
provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 17.
H) Restoration—
1) Protected Stone Walls — Unless waived, any restoration ordered within a Decision
shall consist of replacing the Protected Stone Wall on a square face foot per square
face foot basis. Stone walls shall be replaced so as to reconnect in a consistent manner
with undisturbed walls wherever physically possible. Where feasible and appropriate,
any unused removed stones from such stone walls shall be used to repair other
sections of the stone wall. No Protected Stone Wall shall be cut without construction
of an appropriate stone terminus—i.e. stone piers or granite posts.
2) Protected Trees — Unless waived, any restoration ordered within a Decision shall
consist of replacing the removed Protected Trees with nursery grade trees on a one (1)
square inch per two (2) square inch replacement basis, at locations specified by the
Planning Board and the Tree Warden. A one (1) square inch per two (2) square inch
replacement is calculated by finding the diameter of a tree in question at four point
five (4.5) feet up from the base above the ground and determining its trunk area (3.14
x tree radius squared). The resulting figure is halved and that square inch total
becomes the equal to the square inch total of the replacement tree(s). The restoration
shall be verified by the Tree Warden. The species of replacement tree(s) will be
determined by the Tree Warden, or otherwise will be consistent with the species of
the removed tree(s). The Tree Warden may determine a compensatory value for
which the applicant shall be responsible, in lieu of replacement tree plantings, which
is equal to the value for nursery grade tree stock and installation. Such value and
subsequent payment due the Town of Cohasset shall be outlined in the Scenic Road
Work Permit.
Section 6. Enforcement:
A) Failure to File—Failure to file for a Scenic Road Work Permit where needed shall result in an
immediate stop work order from the Planning Board and/or Building Inspector, shall
necessitate an immediate filing as detailed above, and may result in an order for
restoration measures to be taken.
B) Failure to Comply — Failure to comply with the terms of a Scenic Road Work Permit may
result in an order requiring remedial measures to be taken, may include fines as set forth
below, and may result in enforcement through non-criminal disposition under M.G.L.,
Chapter 40, Section 21D.
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C) Fines - Anyone who violates the provisions of this Bylaw may be fined through non-criminal
disposition under M.G.L., Chapter 40, Section 21D, at a fine of$300 per day, with each day's
failure to comply constituting a separate and distinct offense.
Section 7. Severability:
If, in any respect, any provision of this Bylaw, in whole or in part, shall prove to be invalid for
any reason, such invalidity shall only affect the part of such provision which shall be held invalid
and in all other respects, this Bylaw shall stand.
Or to take any other action related thereto.
MOVED
To see if the Town will vote to create a new Article XVII of the General Bylaws, "Scenic Roads
in Cohasset":
Article XVII—Scenic Roads in Cohasset
Section 1. Authority&Purpose:
The Planning Board's authority and jurisdiction shall be consistent with M.G.L. c. 40, s. 15C.
This Bylaw is intended to protect the natural beauty that exists within the rights-of-way of select
public ways designated as Scenic Roads in the Town of Cohasset by providing the necessary
criteria and standards for designation of and regulating certain activities within the right-of-way
of a Scenic Road.
Section 2. Definitions:
In the absence of contrary meaning established through legislation or judicial action pursuant to
M.G.L. c. 40, s. 15C, these terms contained in that statute shall be construed as follows:
Abutter: 1) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with the portion of the right of way
containing the proposed Disturbance Area;
2) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with land within the preceding
definition(1);
3) Owners of land directly opposite the proposed Disturbance Area;
4) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with land within the preceding
definition (3);
all definition including abutting owners of another town, if applicable.
Disturbance Area: The area of land within the Scenic Road's right of way where regulated work
is to be performed.
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Posting: The marking of a tree or stone wall on the right-of-way on a Scenic Road for the
purpose of a Scenic Road public hearing. For Protected Trees, such marking as described
in M.G.L. c. 87, s. 3. For Protected Stone Walls, a ribbon or other appropriate "flagging"
material temporarily affixed to the stone wall at issue in a Scenic Road hearing and
viewable from the paved road.
Protected Stone Wall: A contiguous arrangement of stone, cut or otherwise, dry-fitted or
mortared, in excess of 20 years of age, or otherwise deemed by the Historical
Commission to be of historical significance, located wholly or partially within, or on the
boundary line of, the right-of-way of a Scenic Road. Includes any of its appurtenances
including but not limited to gates, terminuses, cut granite stone or large individual
stones. Does not include walls constructed of manufactured concrete block.
Protected Tree: Any living Specimen Tree of any size, or any other living tree whose trunk has a
diameter of four (4) inches or more as measured one (1) foot from the ground located
wholly or partially within, or on the boundary line of, the right-of-way of a Scenic Road.
Right-of-way: The area on and within the legal boundaries of the Scenic Road. If the boundaries
are unknown, any affected Protected Trees or Protected Stone Walls shall be presumed to
be within the right-of-way until shown to be otherwise.
Specimen Tree -A native, introduced or naturalized tree which is important because of its impact
on community character, its significance in the historic/cultural landscape or its value in
enhancing the effects of wildlife habitat. Any tree with a dbh of 6" or larger is eligible to
be considered a specimen tree. Trees that have a small height at maturity or are slow
growing, such as flowering dogwood or American holly with a dbh of 4" or larger are
eligible to be considered specimen trees.
Section 3. Procedure for Designation of Scenic Roads:
A) A proposal to designate a public way as a Scenic Road may be instigated by any of the
following: the Planning Board, the Board of Selectmen, the Conservation Commission, the
Historical Commission, or by petition of thirty (30) registered voters, half of whom must be
residents of the proposed Scenic Road.
B) The Planning Board shall hold a public hearing on the request for Scenic Road designation
with notice to the Town Clerk, the Board of Selectmen, the Tree Warden, the Department of
Public Works, the Conservation Commission, the Historical Commission, and the Building
Inspector, and advertising twice in a newspaper of general circulation, the last publication at
least seven days prior to the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the
Planning Board shall make a recommendation to the next gathering of Annual or Special
Town Meeting on the merits of designating the proposed way as a Scenic Road.
C) The Planning Board's written recommendation shall address the following criteria:
1)Age and historic significance of affected roads, trees and stone walls;
2) Contribution of the affected trees and/or stone walls to scenic beauty;
3) Exceptional qualities of affected trees in terms of age, spread, species or specimen;
4)Protection of natural resources as well as scenic and aesthetic quality of area;
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5) Bordering land uses, nearby architectural features, present and prospective, and how
they impact the importance of retaining the affected trees and/or stone wall;
6) Scenic vistas of the area.
D) The proposal shall be brought forward as a warrant article of the Planning Board with its
recommendation. If the Planning Board recommendation is negative, the proponent of the
designation shall present the proposal at Town Meeting. A majority vote of Town Meeting
will be required. Approval of the designation shall be effective as of the date of Town
Meeting action. Any work not physically commenced as of the date of the designation shall
conform to this Bylaw.
E) Following the designation of a Scenic Road, the Planning Board shall notify all municipal
departments, the Massachusetts Highway Department, the Commissioners of Norfolk
County, all utility companies servicing properties abutting the Scenic Road, and all property
owners along the Scenic Road.
Section 4. Regulated Activity:
The following are the activities regulated under this Bylaw and through the Scenic Road Work
Permit process:
A) Utility & Road Work: Any roadway repair, maintenance, reconstruction or paving work,
utility installation and repair work done within the right-of-way of a Scenic Road by any
person or agency, public or private, including construction of new driveways or
alterations of existing ones to the extent such work takes place within or accessing the
right of-way, and roadside cutting for clearance for vehicles or for improvement of line-
of-sight, except as allowed in the next subsection.
B) Cutting or Removal of Trees: The removal of one or more Protected Trees, trimming of major
branches, or cutting of roots to a degree sufficient in the Tree Warden's written opinion
to cause eventual destruction of a tree. Not included is the clearing of nuisance growth,
routine or emergency tree maintenance which removes only permanently diseased or
damaged limbs, trunks or roots and dead whole trees, or thinning out of overcrowded
trees as determined by the Tree Warden, but shall include such cutting or removal done in
contemplation of, or following the repair, maintenance, reconstruction or paving work for
a road.
C) Tearing Down or Destruction of Stone Walls: The defacing, removal, physical covering
(other than naturally occurring plant covering) or rearrangement of at least five (5) square
face feet (height x length of stone wall "face") of a Protected Stone Wall. The temporary
removal of a Protected Stone Wall is permitted without Planning Board approval if the
Department of Public Works (is notified before the work begins. The DPW may inspect
the work upon completion of restoration to confirm proper replacement at the same
location with the same materials in a contiguous and consistent arrangement to the
adjoining stone walls. Repair of a Protected Stone Wall, not involving the tearing down
or destruction of it, is not covered by this Bylaw
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D) Municipal Sidewalks: When construction of a municipal sidewalk within the right of way of a
Scenic Road is deemed a public safety necessity by the Town and its construction has
been approved by Town Meeting, a Protected Tree may be removed if there is no feasible
alternative, subject to the compensation set out in Section 5(H)below.
Section 5. Scenic Road Work Permit:
B) Any work designated under Section 4 above shall be required to obtain a Scenic Road Work
Permit from the Planning Board prior to commencement of the activity, or as soon after an
emergency activity as is possible.
B) Filing Instructions—Any person or entity seeking a Scenic Road Work Permit shall do so on
an application form supplied by the Planning Board, together with the following:
1) a written description and plans or drawings showing the location and the nature of the
proposed Disturbance Area;
2) a statement explaining the purpose and need for the proposed impact upon a Protected
Stone Wall or Protected Tree;
3) a statement outlining possible alternatives, proposed compensatory actions, and
mitigation measures including restoration, to the proposed impact upon a Protected
Stone Wall or Protected Tree;
4) a list, certified by the Assessor's office, of abutters, as defined herein;
5) except in the case of town agencies, a Scenic Road Work Permit fee as specified in
the Planning Board's Fee Schedule;
6) photographs of all Protected Stone Walls or Protected Trees within and adjacent
within 50 feet to the proposed Disturbance Area prior to any work;
7) any other explanatory material useful to adequately inform the Planning Board and
Tree Warden prior to the public hearing.
C) Posting - A Posting, as defined above, is required at least seven (7) days prior to a Scenic
Road public hearing.
D) Public Hearing - The Planning Board shall hold a public hearing as soon as practical but in
no event later than forty-five (45) days from the date on which the application for a Scenic Road
Work Permit is received unless a longer time is agreed to by the applicant. Notice will be given
by the Board to other Town Departments and the public as set forth in Section 3(B) above.
E) Coordination with Tree Warden—As stated in the Scenic Road Act and whenever feasible,
the Planning Board hearing shall be held in conjunction with that held by the Tree Warden acting
under M.G.L. Chapter 87. In the event of such a joint hearing, the advertisement shall be made
by the Tree Warden or his deputy. Consent to an action by the Planning Board shall not be
construed as inferring consent by the Tree Warden or the reverse, nor shall execution of this
Bylaw in any way lessen the Tree Warden's duties under M.G.L. Chapter 87.
48
F) Considerations - In acting on a Scenic Road Work Permit, the Planning Board shall consider
the following in making its determination:
1)public safety;
2) scenic and aesthetic characteristics and quality of the area;
3) quality and extent of shade and tree canopy;
4) accident history within five hundred(500) feet of tree(s) and stone walls at issue;
5) commentary contributed by the Tree Warden, town agencies, abutters and other
interested parties;
6)preservation of natural resources and environmental systems;
7)preservation of historical and cultural resources values;
8) compatibility with surrounding neighborhood;
9) recreational uses of the proposed Scenic Road, taking into account the nature and
extent of such uses;
10) relationship of the road design to the standards of the Planning Board's Subdivision
Rules and Regulations but recognizing that a waiver from the standards should be
allowed when a way has been designated as a Scenic Road by the Town Meeting;
11) adequacy and value of compensatory actions proposed, such as replacement of trees
or stone walls or restoration of the same;
12)traffic patterns, volume, congestion and posted speed limit;
13) consistency with articulated Town policies and the Cohasset Master Plan;
14) feasibility for avoiding disturbance to trees or stone walls by proposing a safe
location for a walkway, driveway or road elsewhere; and
15) other sound planning principles and considerations.
G) Decision - The Planning Board shall make a decision to issue or deny a Scenic Road Work
Permit within twenty-one (21) days after closing the public hearing, and shall be filed with the
Town Clerk within that time. Copies of the decision shall be sent to the applicant, the Board of
Selectmen, the Tree Warden, the Department of Public Works, the Building Inspector, the
Conservation Commission and the Historical Commission. The approval of a Scenic Road Work
Permit shall be valid for one (1) year. Any work outlined in the issuance of a Scenic Road Work
Permit not completed within one (1) year after issuance will necessitate a new and separate filing
for a Scenic Road Work Permit. Appeal of a decision shall be done in accordance with the
provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 17.
H) Restoration—
1) Protected Stone Walls — Unless waived, any restoration ordered within a Decision
shall consist of replacing the Protected Stone Wall on a square face foot per square
face foot basis. Stone walls shall be replaced so as to reconnect in a consistent manner
with undisturbed walls wherever physically possible. Where feasible and appropriate,
any unused removed stones from such stone walls shall be used to repair other
sections of the stone wall. No Protected Stone Wall shall be cut without construction
of an appropriate stone terminus—i.e. stone piers or granite posts.
2) Protected Trees — Unless waived, any restoration ordered within a Decision shall
consist of replacing the removed Protected Trees with nursery grade trees on a one (1)
49
square inch per two (2) square inch replacement basis, at locations specified by the
Planning Board and the Tree Warden. A one (1) square inch per two (2) square inch
replacement is calculated by finding the diameter of a tree in question at four point
five (4.5) feet up from the base above the ground and determining its trunk area (3.14
x tree radius squared). The resulting figure is halved and that square inch total
becomes the equal to the square inch total of the replacement tree(s). The restoration
shall be verified by the Tree Warden. The species of replacement tree(s) will be
determined by the Tree Warden, or otherwise will be consistent with the species of
the removed tree(s). The Tree Warden may determine a compensatory value for
which the applicant shall be responsible, in lieu of replacement tree plantings, which
is equal to the value for nursery grade tree stock and installation. Such value and
subsequent payment due the Town of Cohasset shall be outlined in the Scenic Road
Work Permit.
Section 6. Enforcement:
A) Failure to File—Failure to file for a Scenic Road Work Permit where needed shall result in an
immediate stop work order from the Planning Board and/or Building Inspector, shall
necessitate an immediate filing as detailed above, and may result in an order for
restoration measures to be taken.
B) Failure to Comply — Failure to comply with the terms of a Scenic Road Work Permit may
result in an order requiring remedial measures to be taken, may include fines as set forth
below, and may result in enforcement through non-criminal disposition under M.G.L.,
Chapter 40, Section 21D.
C) Fines - Anyone who violates the provisions of this Bylaw may be fined through non-criminal
disposition under M.G.L., Chapter 40, Section 21D, at a fine of$300 per day, with each day's
failure to comply constituting a separate and distinct offense.
Section 7. Severability:
If, in any respect, any provision of this Bylaw, in whole or in part, shall prove to be invalid for
any reason, such invalidity shall only affect the part of such provision which shall be held invalid
and in all other respects, this Bylaw shall stand.
Or to take any other action related thereto.
Motion adopted unanimously.
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Article 28: Citizen's Petition -New Land Alteration Regulations
Part 1:
To see if the Town will vote to delete Section 11 of the Zoning Bylaw, "Regulations Governing
Earth Removal", in its entirety, and replace it with new Section 11 titled "Section 11 — Land
Alteration Management"
11.1. Purpose:
To promote land development and site planning practices which are responsive to the scenic,
archaeological, historic and aesthetic character of Cohasset without preventing the reasonable
development of land, by: regulating earth removal, ledge removal, grading and clearing activities
associated with land development;
limiting alteration of natural topography prior to development review; preserving as much as
practicable existing trees, vegetation and land forms from damage or removal during site
development; preventing erosion and sedimentation and controlling stormwater runoff, and
preventing fragmentation of wildlife habitat and loss of vegetation.
11.2. Applicability:
All Clearing, excavating, filling or Grading activities proposed to take place on any lot in any
zoning district, unless specifically exempted under Sect. 11.3, or below the thresholds for
regulation established under Sect. 11.4, shall obtaining a Site Alteration Special Permit from the
Planning Board pursuant to this Section 11. "Subdivision Approval Not Required" projects shall
be subject to this Bylaw.
11.3. Exemptions:
The following activities are exempt from having to obtain a Site Alteration Special Permit:
A) Removal of hazardous trees (a tree with a structural defect or disease, or which impedes safe
sight distance or traffic flow, or otherwise currently poses a threat to life or property).
B) Routine maintenance of vegetation and removal of dead or diseased limbs and/or trees
necessary to maintain the health of cultivated plants.
C) Activity required by a D.E.M. approved Forest Management Plan, or to remedy a potential
fire or health hazard or threat to public safety;
D) Construction and maintenance of public and private streets and utilities within town-
approved roadway layouts and easements or in connection with a subdivision approved in
accordance with the town's Subdivision Rules and Regulations.
E) Work conducted in accordance with any prior and still-valid earth removal or building permit
issued pursuant to the predecessor version of this Section 11 or other sections of the Cohasset
Zoning Bylaw.
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F) Agricultural activities in existence at the time this bylaw is adopted, work conducted in
accordance with an approved Natural Resource Conservation Service Agricultural Plan or
agricultural uses on parcels of land of more than five acres as specified in MGL c. 40A,
section 3.
G) Exploratory work associated with the siting of a new or replacement individual sewage
disposal system, provided that such activity shall be limited to the minimum area necessary
to maneuver a backhoe or other construction equipment, and which is otherwise being
monitored by the appropriate boards having jurisdiction.
H) Maintenance of existing landscaped areas that exceed Clearing limits herein, as long as such
areas are not expanded.
11.4. Land Alteration Limitations:
A) In the case of Clearing, the limit that may be cleared is:
1) In the RA District 70%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
75%Developed/Improved Lots
2) In the RB District 50%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
60%Developed/Improved Lots
3) In the RC District 40%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
50%Developed/Improved Lots
4) In the DB, WB &VB Districts 85%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
85%Developed/Improved Lots
5) In the HB, LI, TB Districts 70%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
75%Developed/Improved Lots
6) In Overlay Districts According to the respective underlying District
7) In the OS District 0%, or the minimum necessary for any
permitted or grandfathered structures thereon
B) In the case of excavation of soils, gravel or ledge for permanent removal from the site, no
more than ten (10) cubic yards may be removed in a given calendar year, excepting the
amount necessarily excavated in connection with the lawful construction of a building,
structure, foundation, basement, septic system, or other utility.
C) In the further case of excavation, and in the case of filling and grading, outside the footprint
of any building or structure foundations, Post-Construction Grade shall differ from Pre-
Construction Grade by no more than a two-foot or five-percent (5%) change in grade, plus or
minus, whichever is greater.
C) In the further case of excavating, chipping, blasting or otherwise altering or impacting upon
Exposed Ledge Face, as well as being subject to the limitations of subsections (B) and (C)
above, removal of Exposed Ledge Face shall be limited to no more than a 15% decrease in
52
height of the Exposed Ledge Face relative to Pre-Construction Grade at all points, and to no
more than a 2-foot deep removal into the Exposed Ledge Face.
D) In the further case of grading and filling, where new slopes are created by the permitted
grading and filling activity, such slopes shall be limited to no greater than a 2:1 slope, while
preserving, matching, or blending with the remaining natural contours and undulations of the
land to the greatest extent possible.
E) Required Mitigation Measures. If work is permitted, the following mitigation measures will
become part of the Decision as are applicable
1) Any Clearing of vegetation and alteration of topography shall be mitigated with native
vegetation planted in disturbed areas as needed to enhance or restore wildlife habitat.
A minimum of 4" of topsoil shall be placed on all disturbed surfaces which are
proposed to be planted. Post-Construction Grade shall be no higher than the trunk
flare(s) of trees to be retained. If a grade change of 6" or more at the base of the tree
is proposed, a retaining wall or tree well may be required.
2) Clearing for utility trenching shall be limited to the minimum area necessary to
maneuver a backhoe or other construction equipment. Roots should be cut cleanly
rather than pulled or ripped out during utility trenching. Tunneling for utilities
installation should be utilized wherever feasible to protect root systems of trees.
11.5. Application Requirements:
A) Unless determined otherwise by the Planning Board, or until detailed regulations of the
Planning Board are passed, all applications for a Site Alteration Special Permit shall adhere
to the filing requirements of the Stormwater Permit process under Article XV of the General
Bylaws and the Subdivision Rules and Regulations process as are applicable.
D) Before seeking to obtain a Site Alteration Special Permit, applicants should first obtain any
necessary permits from the Zoning Board of Appeals (special permits or variances), the
Board of Health (for septic system permitting), the Sewer Commission (for sewer line
location), and Conservation Commission (for wetlands and stormwater permits).
11.6. Review and Decision:
A) The Planning Board shall act on applications according to the procedures and time limits
specified in Section I2.4(1)(b)(1), (2), (3) and (4) of the Zoning Bylaw. Appeals shall be
governed by M.G.L. c. 40A, s. 17.
B) The Planning Board may grant a Site Alteration Special Permit after a public hearing only
where such conditions and safeguards as required by this Section have been made, and only
after a determination that such grant would not be detrimental to the public health, safety,
53
welfare, comfort, or character of the neighborhood and would not be adverse to the town's
economy and environment. The Planning Board will consider the following factors as part of
its determination:
1) The availability of reasonable alternatives to the site alterations proposed.
2) Comparison to neighboring properties for consistency in topography.
3) Compliance with the performance standards under the Stormwater Permit process
under Article XV of the General Bylaws, even if a separate Stormwater Permit is not
required, and the degree of preservation of natural drainage channels on the site.
4) Avoidance of impacts upon rare and endangered species and wildlife habitat on a site,
and maintenance of contiguous forested areas.
5) Priority shall be given to retention of existing stands of trees, trees at site perimeter,
contiguous vegetation with adjacent sites (particularly existing sites protected through
conservation restrictions), and Specimen Trees.
C) The Planning Board is authorized to promulgate regulations to further application and
enforcement of this bylaw, including but not limited to, regulations setting forth application
procedures, review procedures, specific review standards and specific design criteria
consistent with this bylaw.
11.7. Security:
The Planning Board may require a performance guarantee in a form acceptable to it to cover the
costs associated with compliance with this bylaw, in the same manner and on the same
conditions as are applicable to performance guarantees related to subdivision projects as may
then be applicable.
11.8. Severability:
If a court of competent jurisdiction holds any provision of this bylaw invalid, the remainder of
the bylaw shall not be affected thereby. The invalidity of any section or sections or parts of any
section or sections of this bylaw shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the Town's
Zoning Bylaw.
Part 2:
In furtherance of the passage of Part 1 of this Article, to see if the Town will add and amend
Definitions in Section 2 of the Zoning Bylaw as follows:
Additions:
Clearing: The complete removal of ground vegetation or trees down to a height of 2" or less,
and/or the complete removal of areas of tree canopy.
54
Exposed Ledge Face: Any portion of rock ledge lying above a height of two feet or greater above
Pre-Construction Grade at any given point.
Grade: The surface, level and/or elevation of the ground.
Pre-Construction Grade: The Grade of a lot or site prior to the Development proposed.
Post-Construction Grade: The Grade of a lot or site upon completion of the Development
proposed.
Amendments:
Under the definition of Development, to add the following two sub-definitions:
Developed/Improved: A lot or site that has previously been altered from its natural state
by the addition of still-existing, man-made Buildings or by man-made
Clearing done for the purpose of adding still-existing Buildings.
Undeveloped/Unimproved: A lot or site 1) that has not been altered from its natural state,
or 2) if developed in the past, that no longer has any man-made Buildings
upon it(but which may still have a fence or stone wall), or 3)which was
cleared for agricultural use, or 4) upon which the sole human activity has been
exploratory work for a septic system or other Development.
Under the definition of Height, to change the words "pre-construction ground" to "Pre-
Construction Grade".
Name: Address: Name: Address:
Thomas J. Callahan 35 Hillside Drive Leonard Snyderman 241 Jerusalem Road
Lisey Good 241 Jerusalem Road Susan Playfair 249 Atlantic Avenue
Stephen Crummey 394 Atlantic Avenue Paul Hickey 400 Atlantic Avenue
Maryanne Wetherland419 Jerusalem Road Thomas Wetherland 419 Jerusalem Road
Richard Swanborg 48 Nichols Road Shelley Vanderweil 449 Jerusalem Road
MOVED that Section 11 of the Zoning Bylaw, "Regulations Governing Earth Removal,"be deleted
in its entirety and replaced with the following:
SECTION 11 -LAND ALTERATION MANAGEMENT
11.1. Purpose:
To promote land development and site planning practices which are responsive to the scenic,
archaeological, historic and aesthetic character of Cohasset without preventing the reasonable
development of land, by: regulating earth removal, ledge removal, grading and clearing activities
associated with land development; limiting alteration of natural topography prior to development
review; preserving as much as practicable existing trees, vegetation and land forms from damage
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or removal during site development; preventing erosion and sedimentation and controlling
stormwater runoff; and preventing fragmentation of wildlife habitat and loss of vegetation.
11.2. Applicability:
All Clearing, excavating, filling or Grading activities proposed to take place on any lot in any
zoning district, unless specifically exempted under Sect. 11.3, or below the thresholds for
regulation established under Sect. 11.4, shall obtaining a Site Alteration Special Permit from the
Planning Board pursuant to this Section 11. "Subdivision Approval Not Required"projects shall
be subject to this Bylaw.
11.3. Exemptions:
The following activities are exempt from having to obtain a Site Alteration Special Permit:
A) Removal of hazardous trees (a tree with a structural defect or disease, or which impedes safe
sight distance or traffic flow, or otherwise currently poses a threat to life or property).
B) Routine maintenance of vegetation and removal of dead or diseased limbs and/or trees
necessary to maintain the health of cultivated plants.
C) Activity required by a D.E.M. approved Forest Management Plan, or to remedy a potential
fire or health hazard or threat to public safety;
D) Construction and maintenance of public and private streets and utilities within town-
approved roadway layouts and easements or in connection with a subdivision approved in
accordance with the town's Subdivision Rules and Regulations.
E) Work conducted in accordance with any prior and still-valid earth removal or building permit
issued pursuant to the predecessor version of this Section 11 or other sections of the Cohasset
Zoning Bylaw.
F) Agricultural activities in existence at the time this bylaw is adopted, work conducted in
accordance with an approved Natural Resource Conservation Service Agricultural Plan or
agricultural uses on parcels of land of more than five acres as specified in MGL c. 40A,
section 3.
G) Exploratory work associated with the siting of a new or replacement individual sewage
disposal system,provided that such activity shall be limited to the minimum area necessary
to maneuver a backhoe or other construction equipment, and which is otherwise being
monitored by the appropriate boards having jurisdiction.
H)Maintenance of existing landscaped areas that exceed Clearing limits herein prior to the
adoption of this Bylaw, as long as such areas are not expanded.
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11.4. Land Alteration Limitations:
A) In the case of Clearing, the limit that may be cleared is:
1) In the RA District 70%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
75%Developed/Improved Lots
2) In the RB District 50%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
60%Developed/Improved Lots
3) In the RC District 40%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
50%Developed/Improved Lots
4) In the DB, WB &VB Districts 85%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
85%Developed/Improved Lots
5) In the HB, LI, TB Districts 70%Undeveloped/Unimproved Lots
75% Developed/Improved Lots
6) In Overlay Districts According to the respective
underlying District
7) In the OS District 0%, or the minimum necessary for
any permitted or grandfathered
structures thereon
On a Residential lot that is Developed/Improved prior to the adoption of this Bylaw,
limited expansion over the Clearing limits herein may be permitted without a Site
Alteration Special Permit if the clearing is for necessary utility work or expansion,
only to the extent needed for the utility installation. Limited expansion over the
Clearing limits herein for the purposes of constructing an accessory structure (all
structures but for the main house) may be permitted without a Site Alteration
Special Permit,but limited to the area needed for the accessory structure or 10% of
the remaining non-cleared area of the lot,whichever is less.
B) In the case of excavation of soils, gravel or ledge for permanent removal from the site, no
more than ten(10) cubic yards per 15,000 sq. ft. of lot area may be removed in a given
calendar year, excepting the amount necessarily excavated in connection with the lawful
construction of a building, structure, foundation, basement, septic system, or other utility.
C) In the further case of excavation, and in the case of filling and grading, outside the footprint
of any building or structure foundations, Post-Construction Grade shall differ from Pre-
Construction Grade by no more than a two-foot or five-percent(5%) change in grade,plus or
minus, whichever is greater.
D) In the further case of excavating, chipping, blasting or otherwise altering or impacting upon
Exposed Ledge Face, as well as being subject to the limitations of subsections (B) and(C)
above, removal of Exposed Ledge Face shall be limited to no more than a 15% decrease in
height of the Exposed Ledge Face relative to Pre-Construction Grade at all points, and to no
more than a 2-foot deep removal into the Exposed Ledge Face.
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E) In the further case of grading and filling, where new slopes are created by the permitted
grading and filling activity, such slopes shall be limited to no greater than a 2:1 slope, while
preserving, matching, or blending with the remaining natural contours and undulations of the
land to the greatest extent possible.
F) Required Mitigation Measures. If work is permitted, the following mitigation measures will
become part of the Decision as are applicable
1) Any Clearing of vegetation and alteration of topography shall be mitigated with native
vegetation planted in disturbed areas as is reasonably needed to restore the affected
area to its previous native condition. A minimum of 4" of topsoil shall be placed on
all disturbed surfaces which are proposed to be planted. Post-Construction Grade
shall be no higher than the trunk flare(s) of trees to be retained. If a grade change of
6" or more at the base of the tree is proposed, a retaining wall or tree well may be
required.
2) Clearing for utility trenching shall be limited to the minimum area necessary to
maneuver a backhoe or other construction equipment. Roots should be cut cleanly
rather than pulled or ripped out during utility trenching. Tunneling for utilities
installation should be utilized wherever feasible to protect root systems of trees.
11.5. Application Requirements:
A)Unless determined otherwise by the Planning Board, or until detailed regulations of the
Planning Board are passed, all applications for a Site Alteration Special Permit shall adhere
to the filing requirements of the Stormwater Permit process under Article XV of the General
Bylaws and the Subdivision Rules and Regulations process as are applicable.
B) Before seeking to obtain a Site Alteration Special Permit, applicants should first obtain any
necessary permits from the Zoning Board of Appeals (special permits or variances), the
Board of Health (for septic system permitting), the Sewer Commission (for sewer line
location), and Conservation Commission (for wetlands and stormwater permits).
11.6. Review and Decision:
A) The Planning Board shall act on applications according to the procedures and time limits
specified in Section I2.4(1)(b)(1), (2), (3) and(4) of the Zoning Bylaw. Appeals shall be
governed by M.G.L. c. 40A, s. 17.
B) The Planning Board may grant a Site Alteration Special Permit after a public hearing only
where such conditions and safeguards as required by this Section have been made, and only
after a determination that such grant would not be detrimental to the public health, safety,
welfare, comfort, or character of the neighborhood and would not be adverse to the town's
economy and environment. The Planning Board will consider the following factors as part of
its determination:
1) The availability of reasonable alternatives to the site alterations proposed.
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2) Comparison to neighboring properties for consistency in topography.
3) Compliance with the performance standards under the Stormwater Permit process
under Article XV of the General Bylaws, even if a separate Stormwater Permit is not
required, and the degree of preservation of natural drainage channels on the site.
4)Avoidance of adverse impacts upon rare and endangered species and wildlife habitat
on a site, and maintenance of contiguous forested areas.
5)Priority shall be given to retention of existing stands of trees, trees at site perimeter,
contiguous vegetation with adjacent sites (particularly existing sites protected through
conservation restrictions), and Specimen Trees.
C) The Planning Board is authorized to promulgate regulations to further application and
enforcement of this bylaw, including but not limited to, regulations setting forth application
procedures, review procedures, specific review standards and specific design criteria
consistent with this bylaw.
11.7. Security:
The Planning Board may require a performance guarantee in a form acceptable to it to cover the
costs associated with compliance with this bylaw, in the same manner and on the same
conditions as are applicable to performance guarantees related to subdivision projects as may
then be applicable.
11.8. Enforcement:
A) Failure to File—Failure to file for a Special Permit where needed shall result in an
immediate stop work order from the Planning Board and/or Building Inspector,
shall necessitate an immediate filing as detailed above, and may result in an order
for restoration measures to be taken.
B) Failure to Comply—Failure to comply with the terms of a Special Permit may result in
an order requiring remedial measures to be taken, may include fines as set forth
below, and may result in enforcement through non-criminal disposition under
M.G.L., Chapter 40, Section 21D.
C) Fines -Anyone who violates the provisions of this Bylaw may be fined through non-
criminal disposition under M.G.L., Chapter 40, Section 21D, at a fine of$300 per
day,with each day's failure to comply constituting a separate and distinct offense.
11.9. Severability:
If a court of competent jurisdiction holds any provision of this bylaw invalid, the remainder of
the bylaw shall not be affected thereby. The invalidity of any section or sections or parts of any
section or sections of this bylaw shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the Town's
Zoning Bylaw.
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AND MOVED further that Section 2,Definitions, of the Zoning Bylaw be amended by
adding the following:
Clearing: The complete removal of ground vegetation or trees down to a height of 2" or less,
and/or the complete removal of areas of tree canopy.
Exposed Ledge Face: Any portion of rock ledge lying above a height of two feet or greater above
Pre-Construction Grade at any given point.
Grade: The surface, level and/or elevation of the ground.
Pre-Construction Grade: The Grade of a lot or site prior to the Development proposed.
Post-Construction Grade: The Grade of a lot or site upon completion of the Development
proposed.
AND MOVED further that Section 2,Definitions, of the Zoning Bylaw be amended by
amending the following:
Under the definition of Development, to add the following two sub-definitions:
Developed/Improved: A lot or site that has previously been altered from its natural state
by the addition of still-existing, man-made Buildings or by man-made
Clearing done for the purpose of adding to still-existing Buildings.
Undeveloped/Unimproved: A lot or site 1) that has not been altered from its natural state,
or 2) if developed in the past, that no longer has any man-made Buildings
upon it(but which may still have a fence or stone wall), or 3)which was
cleared for agricultural use, or 4)upon which the sole human activity has been
exploratory work for a septic system or other Development.
Under the definition of Height, to change the words "pre-construction ground"to "Pre-
Construction Grade".
A 2/3"vote required.
Hand count taken. In favor 156; Opposed 95. Motion is defeated.
Article 29: Citizen's Petition to Create a Scenic Roads Bylaw
To see if the Town will vote to create a new Article XVII of the General Bylaws, "Scenic Roads
in Cohasset":
Article XVII—Scenic Roads in Cohasset
Section 1. Authority&Purpose:
The Planning Board's authority and jurisdiction shall be consistent with M.G.L. c. 40, s. 15C.
This Bylaw is intended to protect the natural beauty that exists within the right-of-ways of select
roads designated as Scenic Roads in the Town of Cohasset by providing the necessary criteria
and standards for designation of and regulating certain activities within the right-of-way of a
Scenic Road.
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Section 2. Definitions:
In the absence of contrary meaning established through legislation or judicial action pursuant to
M.G.L. c. 40, s. 15C, these terms contained in that statute shall be construed as follows:
Abutter: 1) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with the portion of the right of way
containing the proposed Disturbance Area;
2) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with land within the preceding
definition(1);
3) Owners of land directly opposite the proposed Disturbance Area;
4) Owners of land sharing a boundary line with land within the preceding
definition(3);
all definition including abutting owners of another town, if applicable.
Disturbance Area: The area of land within the Scenic Road's right of way where regulated work
is to be performed.
Posting: The marking of a tree or stone wall on the right-of-way on a Scenic Road for the
purpose of a Scenic Road public hearing. For Protected Trees, such marking as described
in M.G.L. c. 87, s. 3. For Protected Stone Walls, a ribbon or other appropriate "flagging"
material temporarily affixed to the stone wall at issue in a Scenic Road hearing and
viewable from the paved road.
Protected Stone Wall: A contiguous arrangement of stone, cut or otherwise, dry-fitted or
mortared, in excess of 20 years of age, or otherwise deemed by the Historical
Commission to be of historical significance, located wholly or partially within, or on the
boundary line of, the right-of-way of a Scenic Road. Includes any of its appurtenances
including but not limited to gates, terminuses, cut granite stone or large individual
stones. Does not include walls constructed of manufactured concrete block.
Protected Tree: Any living Specimen Tree of any size, or any other living tree whose trunk has a
diameter of four (4) inches or more as measured one (1) foot from the ground located
wholly or partially within, or on the boundary line of, the right-of-way of a Scenic Road.
Right-of-way: The area on and within the legal boundaries of the Scenic Road. If the boundaries
are unknown, any affected Protected Trees or Protected Stone Walls shall be presumed to
be within the right-of-way until shown to be otherwise.
Specimen Tree -A native, introduced or naturalized tree which is important because of its impact
on community character, its significance in the historic/cultural landscape or its value in
enhancing the effects of wildlife habitat. Any tree with a dbh of 6" or larger is eligible to
be considered a specimen tree. Trees that have a small height at maturity or are slow
growing, such as flowering dogwood or American holly with a dbh of 4" or larger are
eligible to be considered specimen trees.
Section 3. Procedure for Designation of Scenic Roads:
A) A proposal to designate a road as a Scenic Road may be instigated by any of the following:
the Planning Board, the Board of Selectmen, the Conservation Commission, the Historical
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Commission, or by petition of thirty(30) registered voters, half of whom must be residents of
the proposed Scenic Road.
B) The Planning Board shall hold a public hearing on the request for Scenic Road designation
with notice to the Town Clerk, the Board of Selectmen, the Tree Warden, the Department of
Public Works, the Conservation Commission, the Historical Commission, and the Building
Inspector, and advertising twice in a newspaper of general circulation, the last publication at
least seven days prior to the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the
Planning Board shall make a recommendation to the next gathering of Annual or Special
Town Meeting on the merits of designating the proposed way as a Scenic Road.
C) The Planning Board's written recommendation shall address the following criteria:
1)Age and historic significance of affected roads, trees and stone walls;
2) Contribution of the affected trees and/or stone walls to scenic beauty;
3)Exceptional qualities of affected trees in terms of age, spread, species or specimen;
4)Protection of natural resources as well as scenic and aesthetic quality of area;
5) Bordering land uses, nearby architectural features, present and prospective, and how
they impact the importance of retaining the affected trees and/or stone wall;
6) Scenic vistas of the area.
D) The proposal shall be brought forward as a warrant article of the Planning Board with its
recommendation. If the Planning Board recommendation is negative, the proponent of the
designation shall present the proposal at Town Meeting. A majority vote of Town Meeting
will be required. Approval of the designation shall be effective as of the date of Town
Meeting action. Any work not physically commenced as of the date of the designation shall
conform to this Bylaw.
E) Following the designation of a Scenic Road, the Planning Board shall notify all municipal
departments, the Massachusetts Highway Department, the Commissioners of Norfolk
County, all utility companies servicing properties abutting the Scenic Road, and all property
owners along the Scenic Road.
Section 4. Reizulated Activity:
The following are the activities regulated under this Bylaw and through the Scenic Road Work
Permit process:
A) Utility & Road Work: Any roadway repair, maintenance, reconstruction or paving work,
utility installation and repair work done within the right-of-way of a Scenic Road by any
person or agency, public or private, including construction of new driveways or
alterations of existing ones to the extent such work takes place within or accessing the
right of-way, and roadside cutting for clearance for vehicles or for improvement of line-
of-sight, except as allowed in the next subsection.
B) Cutting or Removal of Trees: The removal of one or more Protected Trees, trimming of major
branches, or cutting of roots to a degree sufficient in the Tree Warden's written opinion
62
to cause eventual destruction of a tree. Not included is the clearing of nuisance growth,
routine or emergency tree maintenance which removes only permanently diseased or
damaged limbs, trunks or roots and dead whole trees, or thinning out of overcrowded
trees as determined by the Tree Warden, but shall include such cutting or removal done in
contemplation of, or following the repair, maintenance, reconstruction or paving work for
a road.
Q Tearing Down or Destruction of Stone Walls: The defacing, removal, physical covering
(other than naturally occurring plant covering) or rearrangement of at least five (5) square
face feet (height x length of stone wall "face") of a Protected Stone Wall. The temporary
removal of a Protected Stone Wall is permitted without Planning Board approval if the
Department of Public Works (is notified before the work begins. The DPW may inspect
the work upon completion of restoration to confirm proper replacement at the same
location with the same materials in a contiguous and consistent arrangement to the
adjoining stone walls. Repair of a Protected Stone Wall, not involving the tearing down
or destruction of it, is not covered by this Bylaw.
E) Municipal Sidewalks: When construction of a municipal sidewalk within the right of way of
a Scenic Road is deemed a public safety necessity by the Town and its construction has been
approved by Town Meeting, a Protected Tree may be removed if there is no feasible
alternative, subject to the compensation set out in Section 5(H)below.
Section 5. Scenic Road Work Permit:
F) Any work designated under Section 4 above shall be required to obtain a Scenic Road Work
Permit from the Planning Board prior to commencement of the activity, or as soon after an
emergency activity as is possible.
B) Filing Instructions—Any person or entity seeking a Scenic Road Work Permit shall do so on
an application form supplied by the Planning Board, together with the following:
1) a written description and plans or drawings showing the location and the nature of the
proposed Disturbance Area;
2) a statement explaining the purpose and need for the proposed impact upon a Protected
Stone Wall or Protected Tree;
3) a statement outlining possible alternatives, proposed compensatory actions, and
mitigation measures including restoration, to the proposed impact upon a Protected
Stone Wall or Protected Tree;
4) a list, certified by the Assessor's office, of abutters, as defined herein;
5) except in the case of town agencies, a Scenic Road Work Permit fee as specified in
the Planning Board's Fee Schedule;
6) photographs of all Protected Stone Walls or Protected Trees within and adjacent
within 50 feet to the proposed Disturbance Area prior to any work;
7) any other explanatory material useful to adequately inform the Planning Board and
Tree Warden prior to the public hearing.
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C) Posting - A Posting, as defined above, is required at least seven (7) days prior to a Scenic
Road public hearing.
D) Public Hearing - The Planning Board shall hold a public hearing as soon as practical but in
no event later than forty-five (45) days from the date on which the application for a Scenic Road
Work Permit is received unless a longer time is agreed to by the applicant. Notice will be given
by the Board to other Town Departments and the public as set forth in Section 3(B) above.
E) Coordination with Tree Warden—As stated in the Scenic Road Act and whenever feasible,
the Planning Board hearing shall be held in conjunction with that held by the Tree Warden acting
under M.G.L. Chapter 87. In the event of such a joint hearing, the advertisement shall be made
by the Tree Warden or his deputy. Consent to an action by the Planning Board shall not be
construed as inferring consent by the Tree Warden or the reverse, nor shall execution of this
Bylaw in any way lessen the Tree Warden's duties under M.G.L. Chapter 87.
F) Considerations - In acting on a Scenic Road Work Permit, the Planning Board shall consider
the following in making its determination:
1)public safety;
2) scenic and aesthetic characteristics and quality of the area;
3) quality and extent of shade and tree canopy;
4) accident history within five hundred (500) feet of tree(s) and stone walls at issue;
5) commentary contributed by the Tree Warden, town agencies, abutters and other
interested parties;
6)preservation of natural resources and environmental systems;
7)preservation of historical and cultural resources values;
8) compatibility with surrounding neighborhood;
9) recreational uses of the proposed Scenic Road, taking into account the nature and
extent of such uses;
10) relationship of the road design to the standards of the Planning Board's Subdivision
Rules and Regulations but recognizing that a waiver from the standards should be
allowed when a way has been designated as a Scenic Road by the Town Meeting;
11) adequacy and value of compensatory actions proposed, such as replacement of trees
or stone walls or restoration of the same;
12)traffic patterns, volume, congestion and posted speed limit;
13) consistency with articulated Town policies and the Cohasset Master Plan;
14) feasibility for avoiding disturbance to trees or stone walls by proposing a safe
location for a walkway, driveway or road elsewhere; and
15) other sound planning principles and considerations.
G) Decision - The Planning Board shall make a decision to issue or deny a Scenic Road Work
Permit within twenty-one (21) days after closing the public hearing, and shall be filed with the
Town Clerk within that time. Copies of the decision shall be sent to the applicant, the Board of
Selectmen, the Tree Warden, the Department of Public Works, the Building Inspector, the
Conservation Commission and the Historical Commission. The approval of a Scenic Road Work
Permit shall be valid for one (1) year. Any work outlined in the issuance of a Scenic Road Work
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Permit not completed within one (1) year after issuance will necessitate a new and separate filing
for a Scenic Road Work Permit. Appeal of a decision shall be done in accordance with the
provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 17.
H) Restoration—
1) Protected Stone Walls — Unless waived, any restoration ordered within a Decision
shall consist of replacing the Protected Stone Wall on a square face foot per square
face foot basis. Stone walls shall be replaced so as to reconnect in a consistent manner
with undisturbed walls wherever physically possible. Where feasible and appropriate,
any unused removed stones from such stone walls shall be used to repair other
sections of the stone wall. No Protected Stone Wall shall be cut without construction
of an appropriate stone terminus—i.e. stone piers or granite posts.
2) Protected Trees — Unless waived, any restoration ordered within a Decision shall
consist of replacing the removed Protected Trees with nursery grade trees on a one (1)
square inch per two (2) square inch replacement basis, at locations specified by the
Planning Board and the Tree Warden. A one (1) square inch per two (2) square inch
replacement is calculated by finding the diameter of a tree in question at one (1) foot
above the ground and determining its trunk area (3.14 x tree radius squared). The
resulting figure is halved and that square inch total becomes the equal to the square
inch total of the replacement tree(s). The restoration shall be verified by the Tree
Warden. The species of replacement tree(s) will be determined by the Tree Warden,
or otherwise will be consistent with the species of the removed tree(s). The Tree
Warden may determine a compensatory value for which the applicant shall be
responsible, in lieu of replacement tree plantings, which is equal to the value for
nursery grade tree stock and installation. Such value and subsequent payment due the
Town of Cohasset shall be outlined in the Scenic Road Work Permit.
Section 7. Enforcement:
A) Failure to File—Failure to file for a Scenic Road Work Permit where needed shall result in an
immediate stop work order from the Planning Board and/or Building Inspector, shall
necessitate an immediate filing as detailed above, and may result in an order for
restoration measures to be taken.
B) Failure to Comply — Failure to comply with the terms of a Scenic Road Work Permit may
result in an order requiring remedial measures to be taken, may include fines as set forth
below, and may result in enforcement through non-criminal disposition under M.G.L.,
Chapter 40, Section 21D.
C) Fines - Anyone who violates the provisions of this Bylaw may be fined through non-criminal
disposition under M.G.L., Chapter 40, Section 21D, at a fine of$300 per day, with each day's
failure to comply constituting a separate and distinct offense.
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Section 8. Severability:
If, in any respect, any provision of this Bylaw, in whole or in part, shall prove to be invalid for
any reason, such invalidity shall only affect the part of such provision which shall be held invalid
and in all other respects, this Bylaw shall stand.
Name: Address: Name: Address:
Lisey Good 241 Jerusalem Road Leonard Snyderman 241 Jerusalem Road
Susan Playfair 249 Jerusalem Road Paul Hickey 400 Atlantic Avenue
Stephen Crummey 394 Atlantic Avenue Thomas Wetherland 419 Jerusalem Road
Maryanne Wetherland 419 Jerusalem Road Shelley Vanderweil 449 Atlantic Avenue
Richard Swanborg 48 Nichols Road Jennifer Dial 21 Rocky Lane
Moved that this article be indefinitely postponed.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 30: Citizen's Petition Amending the Large Home Review Process
To see if the Town will vote to make the following amendments to Section 5.5 of the Zoning
Bylaw, "Large House Plan Review", as follows:
By Deleting Subsections (2)thru (4), and replacing them with the following:
2. Where the RGFA exceeds these limits, the proposed work shall be submitted for a Large
House Site Plan Review by the Planning Board. The Applicant will submit the following
minimal information, or such information that may be required by any applicable Rules and
Regulations passed by the Planning Board:
A) a site plan showing the location of the subject house, and the existing and proposed site
conditions, topography, building elevations, extent of shadows cast, setbacks, lot
coverages, floor area ratios, grading and landscape design;
B) for an existing house, photographs of all sides, and for both existing and proposed houses,
a drawn or computer-generated depiction of how the house is proposed to appear post-
construction, including building & siding materials and colors;
C) a map and narrative description of the surrounding neighborhood with data regarding
house styles, house sizes and dimensions, and building & siding materials, and
photographs of all houses within a 300-ft. radius of the proposed house location;
D) a certified list of abutters, as defined herein; and
E) required filing fee.
The Planning Board may, in any particular case where it determines such action to be consistent
with the purpose and intent of the Zoning Bylaw and otherwise in the public interest, waive strict
compliance with these application requirements.
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3. Notwithstanding the foregoing, changes to a pre-existing, non-conforming house that will
require a finding or relief under MGL c. 40A, s. 6 or under Section 8 of the Zoning Bylaw are
exempt from the requirements of Large House Plan Review.
4. Review and Decision:
A) The Planning Board shall hold a hearing within 35 days of receipt of a completed
Application. Notice of the hearing shall be sent by mail, postage prepaid, to the abutters and
abutters to the abutters within 300 feet of the property line of the Applicant, as they appear
on the most recent applicable tax list at least 10 days prior to the public meeting. Owners of
land directly opposite the Applicant on any public or private street or way shall be considered
abutters under this Section. The Planning Board may seek the recommendations of other
Town Departments depending on the nature of the application.
B) The Planning Board shall prepare its decision and provide it to the Applicant within 21 days
of the close of the public hearing, with copies to the Building Inspector and Zoning Board of
Appeals as may be appropriate. If the Planning Board has not issued its decision within that
time, the project, as described in the submission, shall be deemed approved.
C) In considering approval under Large House Site Plan Review, the Planning Board will
consider the following factors:
1) Scale of Buildings. All houses being reviewed shall be sited, and construction
implemented, in a manner that is consistent with the scale of other structures in its
vicinity through the use of appropriate massing, screening, lighting, building and
siding materials and other architectural techniques such as variation in detail, form
and siting. Consideration shall be given to the need for vegetated buffers. Structures
shall be arranged insofar as practicable to avoid casting shadows or increased
shadows onto abutting property.
2) Preservation of Landscape. The landscape shall be preserved in its natural state insofar
as practicable by minimizing use of wetlands, flood plains, hilltops, any grade
changes and vegetation and soil removal. Unique natural areas, topographic features
such as ledge outcrops, significant trees and landscaping, and historic features shall
be saved or enhanced insofar as practicable.
3) Lighting. Exterior lighting shall be only as needed to accomplish safety and design
objectives and shall be arranged so as to minimize the impact on neighboring
properties.
4) Open Space. Open space shall be as extensive as is practicable and designed so as to
add to the visual amenities of the neighborhood for persons passing the site or
overlooking it from nearby properties.
5) Drainage. The development shall incorporate measures that are adequate to prevent
pollution of surface or groundwater, to minimize erosion and sedimentation, and to
prevent changes to groundwater levels, increased rates of runoff, and minimize
potential for flooding. Drainage shall be designed so that groundwater recharge is
maximized, and so that the rate of runoff shall not be increased at the project
boundaries.
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6) Circulation. Walkways, drives and parking shall be safe and convenient and, insofar as
practicable, not detract from the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties and Town
streets.
The above criteria may be superseded and/or supplemented by the requirements and criteria
of other permits that may be needed for the proposed house to be constructed.
The above criteria may be supplemented by any specific and applicable design criteria
promulgated by the Design Review Board, the Planning Board or by the provisions of
any other General or Zoning bylaw.
5. Revision and Amendment of Plans: Any revision, amendment or new information relating to
an LHR application shall be considered as follows:
A) Pending LHR Applications. Revision or amendments relating to a pending LHR application
that is before the Planning Board for review shall be accepted by the Planning Board as part
of the original submission.
B) Previously Approved LHR Applications. Revisions or amendments to an LHR Application
that has previously been approved by the Planning Board must be submitted to the Board for
a determination as to whether the revisions are major or minor and shall be processed as
follows:
1) Minor. If the Board determines the proposed revisions or amendments to be minor,
the Board shall notify the Applicant within one week of the submittal of such
revisions.
2) Major. If the Board determines the proposed revisions or amendments to be major, the
Board shall notify the Applicant within one week of the submittal of such revisions.
The revisions shall then be reviewed in the same manner as the original application
through a hearing.
6. The Planning Board is authorized to promulgate regulations to further application and
enforcement of this bylaw, including but not limited to, regulations setting forth application
procedures, review procedures, specific review standards and specific design criteria
consistent with this bylaw.
7. Appeals. An Applicant, or any person receiving notice under Subsection 3(A) above, may
appeal the Planning Board's approval, denial, conditions or plan modifications to the Zoning
Board of Appeals in accordance with Section 12.3 of the Zoning Bylaw.
Name: Address: Name: Address:
Thomas J. Callahan 35 Hillside Drive Leonard Snyderman 241 Jerusalem Road
Lisey Good 241 Jerusalem Road Susan Playfair 249 Jerusalem Road
Stephen Crummey 394 Atlantic Avenue Thomas Wetherland 419 Jerusalem Road
Maryanne Wetherland 419 Jerusalem Road Shelley Vanderweil 449 Jerusalem Road
Richard Swanborg 48 Nichols Road Kathryn Cetrulo 577 Jerusalem Road
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Moved that this article be indefinitely postponed.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 31: Citizen's Petition Amendment of the Table of Area Regulations
To see if the Town will vote to delete all portions of the existing Table of Area Regulations
found in Sect. 5.3.1 of the Zoning Bylaw having to do with the RA, RB and RC districts, and all
asterisked notes thereto, and replacing same with the following table, and also deleting Note 4 in
Section 5.4:
USE Minimum Required Lots Minimum Yards Maximum Permitted
Use as Permitted Bldg. Floor Area Coverage Coverage
Table 4.2 Area (SSq ft) Frontage(Ft)Width(Ft) Front(Ft)Side(Ft)Rear Depth(Ft) Height Ft Ratio Structural%
DISTRICT R-A
Single-family
Dwelling 18,000 50 100 20 15* 15* 35 .25 N/A 22
Conversion to a
2-family 24,000 50 100 20 15* 15* 35 .25 N/A 22
From Table 4.2 +6,000 for each additional family more than 2
Permitted community
facility and other
structure or other
principal use 18,000 50 100 20 15* 15* 35 .25 N/A 22
DISTRICT R-B
Single-family
Dwelling 35,000 50 125 30 20* 30* 35 .30 N/A 25
Conversion to a
2-family 48,000 50 125 30 20* 30* 35 .30 N/A 25
From Table 4.2 +8,000 for each additional family more than 2
Permitted community
facility and other
structure or other
principal use 35,000 50 125 30 20* 30* 35 .25 N/A 22
DISTRICT R-C
Single-family
Dwelling 60,000 50 150 30 20* 30* 35 .33 N/A 27
Conversion to a
2-family 80,000 50 150 30 20* 30* 35 .33 N/A 27
From Table 4.2 +10,000 for each additional family more than 2
Permitted community
facility and other
structure or other
principal use 60,000 50 150 30 20* 30* 35 .33 N/A 27
Notes applicable to all Res.Districts
Name: Address: Name: Address:
Thomas J. Callahan 35 Hillside Drive Leonard Snyderman 241 Jerusalem Road
Lisey Good 241 Jerusalem Road Susan Playfair 249 Atlantic Avenue
Stephen Crummey 394 Atlantic Avenue Paul Hickey 400 Atlantic Avenue
Maryanne Wetherland419 Jerusalem Road Thomas Wetherland 419 Jerusalem Road
Richard Swanborg 48 Nichols Road Shelley Vanderweil 449 Jerusalem Road
Moved that this article be indefinitely postponed.
Motion adopted unanimously.
Article 32: Citizen's Petition Expansion of Central Cohasset Waste Water Sewer System
Pursuant to the authority of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 39, Section 10 and Article II,
Section 2(c) of the General By-laws of the Town of Cohasset the undersigned, all being
registered voters of the Town of Cohasset request the insertion of the following article in the
Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting to be held on May 1, 2017.
To see if the Town will authorize the expansion of the Central Cohasset Waste Water Sewer
System District Phase 3 Collection system, which expansion shall begin at it's current terminus at
the Veteran's Pump Station located on the Northeasterly side of Chief Justice Cushing Highway
and run in a generally Northerly direction approximately 2,400 linear ft. and terminating on the
Northeasterly side of Chief Justice Cushing Highway at 380-400 Chief Justice Cushing
Highway, providing sewer connections for the residential and commercial buildings constructed
or to be constructed on the Easterly side of Chief Justice Cushing Highway. The cost of laying,
constructing and installing the sewer connection pipes, manholes and appurtenant equipment
together will all design and permit costs in connection with the extension of the sewer district as
aforesaid, shall be funded by raising a sum of money by grant, taxation, surplus, revenue,
borrowing,private contribution or a combination of any of the foregoing methods of payment,
or act on anything relating thereto.
Name: Address: Name: Address:
Ryan L. Stasko 488 Jerusalem Road Mary C. Sease 34 Atlantic Avenue
Barbara L. O'Pray 172 Beach Street John C. McNutty 468 CJ Cushing Hwy
Charles D. Henry 31 Otis Avenue James S. Conway 434 King Street
Thomas E. Hurwitch 30 Beach Street Michael J. Hurley 136 Border Street
Victoria C. Hurley 136 Border Street Henry A. Rattenbury 7 Briarwood Lane
Moved that this article be indefinitely postponed.
Motion adopted unanimously.
It was moved and seconded that the Annual Town Meeting be dissolved at 10:15 p.m.
A True Record, ATTEST:
Carol St. Pierre, Town Clerk
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