7/9/2018 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

Home Browse Search

4 Board of Selectmen Minutes July 9, 2018 APPOINTMENTS & HEARINGS Discussion of Form-Based Code: Mashpee Commons: Arnold Chase in attendance representing Mashpee Commons LLP to review the proposed Mashpee Commons Form-Based Code with members of the Board of Selectmen and interested public. The document dated July 9, 2018 is lengthy and deemed a cutting edge with respect to a proposed change from current zoning and use. The Mashpee Commons by Design process has culminated with an idea to advance a new zoning chapter with a Form-Based Code that would be applied to the land owned by Mashpee Commons Limited Partnership. This action would require a zoning change to be approved by the voters of the Town of Mashpee at Town Meeting. Mr. Chase indicated that Mashpee Commons Limited Partnership (MCLP) has presented Mashpee Commons as a mixed use development of the Cape Cod building tradition. After engaging with the citizens of the Town of Mashpee, public interest has revealed a demand for retail to a perception of the need for housing. In considering the thoughts of the residents, it is the intention of the MCLP to develop a plan using the best practices for mixed use development while maintaining the Cape Cod traditional appearance. It is the intention of MCLP to work with the Mashpee Planning Board to refine the language of the Form Based Cod over the summer and early fall. It is anticipated that discussions would be held at every Planning Board meeting to continue this process to hopefully reach consensus and present the code as a part of the October Town Meeting warrant. The deadline to finalize the October warrant is September 11,2018. Mr. Chase commented on the gratifying process, noting there is a lot of interest in affordable housing, and housing appropriate for seniors, and young people who desire to remain in the Mashpee community. This project is also expected to expand the job base, doubling the 1,100 employees employed by Mashpee Commons now. It was explained that plans include the connection of Mashpee Commons to the Quashnet River Greenway. Although Mashpee Commons may not be the sole developer of this project, it is anticipated MCLP would work in partnership with other developers in a context that is agreed upon. This would include the retention of architectural review and oversight. Mr. Chase noted that more hands would lead to quicker development. Mashpee Commons Limited Partnership is aware of the Town Manager's need to expand the Town of Mashpee tax base. This project would support the need and demand in today's economy. With Town Meeting approval in October, the project is anticipated to commence next year. In an attempt to deal with environinental issues relative to nitrogen loading, this plan was inspired by the Cape Cod Commission under their Regional Policy Plan. It is the desire of Mashpee Commons Limited Partnership to be a part of the solutions and contributions with ongoing communication with Town Officials. The Board of Selectmen agreed that it is hopeful this dialogue would continue. Presently it is difficult to see what a Form Based Code would look like on paper. Continued conversations on this matter are an important issue and if discussions are not complete, it is recommended the May Town Meeting be considered for the zoning amendment.