Changes to open space bylaws under study

Date: 2/7/2011

Feb. 7, 2011

By Chris Maza

Reminder Assistant Editor

WILBRAHAM — The Planning Board is considering bringing proposed changes to the Open Space bylaws to the Annual Town Meeting.

According to Planning and Community Development Director John Pearsall, the changes would be more of a tweak to the open space conservation design process that already exists in town.

"We already have what you'd call flexible zoning, which is kind of a second-generation design," Pearsall said. "What we're considering is almost a version 3.0."

Pearsall said the changes are designed to create more leeway for developers. However, the bylaws will continue to protect conservation land. The proposed changes would improve the manner in which the board identifies land that should be saved for conservation and open space, while offering more options to builders on the land they are allowed to develop.

"The main thing in general is the changes will put more flexibility into the bylaws while putting an emphasis on conservation," Pearsall said.

"These aren't dramatic changes to the process. This is just a more thoughtful, clearer approach," he added.

No decision has been made on whether or not the proposal will be added to the warrant for the Town Meeting.