Chelmsford Town Meeting Passes Key Zoning Changes, 114-1 Vote

UPDATE: The Chelmsford Town Meeting concluded on October 12, 2023, with significant zoning and bylaw changes aimed at shaping the town’s future. A pivotal vote on the creation of a new Roadside Commercial Light District (CBLT) passed overwhelmingly, reflecting community support for development that protects residential areas.

The session, held Thursday evening, saw a bundle of 12 articles passed with a vote of 107-3, spearheaded by Chelmsford Planning Board Chair Chris Lavallee. Lavallee emphasized the importance of voting on all articles together to avoid redundancy: “If we approve all 11, and then vote down the 12th, all of that time on the first 11 will have been wasted,” he stated, highlighting the efficiency of the process.

The new CBLT zoning, focused around Kate’s Corner at the intersection of Acton and Maple roads, aims to create a transitional area between light industrial and residential zones. Lavallee noted it will lessen impacts on surrounding neighborhoods, which include facilities like Lockheed Martin.

“You want to build a distribution center? Fine, there are areas where you can put that in town. You cannot put that next to someone’s residential home,”

said Town Meeting Rep. Annita Tanini, reinforcing the community’s commitment to responsible development.

The meeting proceeded with Article 27, applying the newly established CBLT zoning to the area of Kate’s Corner, which passed with an overwhelming majority of 114-1. Lavallee assured attendees that the new zoning would not affect the Lockheed Martin facility but would prevent inappropriate future developments if the facility were ever to relocate.

In response to questions about community feedback, Lavallee reported “very widespread support” from local residents during discussions leading to the formation of the CBLT zone. He acknowledged that while some residents expressed concerns, they recognized the protective nature of the new zoning.

Another significant topic was Article 29, which sought to redefine “family” in town bylaws to comply with the Fair Housing Act. This change passed with 88-22 votes, moving away from a restrictive definition to one that recognizes diverse living arrangements while ensuring compliance with federal standards. Lavallee clarified, “We’re only trying to define it in terms of zoning, which defines the use of a unit.”

Town Meeting Rep. Matthew Castle voiced strong support for the change, stating, “I don’t think it is the job of our town government to police who lives in the house with us.” This sentiment highlights the growing emphasis on inclusivity in housing policies.

Article 30, which sought to remove references to school impacts from special permit considerations, also passed with a vote of 86-23. Lavallee explained that by law, planning boards cannot consider school impacts, a point echoed by Town Attorney John Eichman, who said, “Providing an education is seen as a duty of the town.”

This Town Meeting marks a critical moment for Chelmsford, as residents engage in shaping their community’s future. The swift passage of these articles signals a commitment to balanced development that honors both industrial growth and residential peace.

As Chelmsford moves forward, the community will need to monitor how these changes impact local development and the overall quality of life for residents. The next steps will involve implementing the new zoning definitions and continuing discussions with stakeholders to ensure a harmonious balance between growth and residential needs.