Date: 4/13/2022
My name is John Matthews, and I am running for reelection for the town of Hampden Planning Board. The Planning Board operates under Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 40a. I have been a member of this board for 13 years. My time on the board has provided me the opportunity to develop a broad knowledge of the many aspects of the board’s responsibilities, such as, but not limited to, zoning and development. My experiences also include working with board members and the citizens’ committee to develop and revise the solar bylaw adding regulations that are a benefit for the town. My tenure on the Planning Board also includes collaborative work to incorporate the medical marijuana bylaw, revise the wireless communication bylaw, work with developers for two new housing developments and address numerous requests for special permits and site plan reviews.
My experiences as a member of the Planning Board are diverse and extensive. In the coming year, the town of Hampden will continue to face growth challenges, along with the process of reviewing and revising the town’s master plan. The last revision was done in 1983 and another review is long overdue, as the plan should be reviewed/renewed approximately every 10 years. This master plan helps guide the zoning bylaw revisions and provides some direction as to where the town would like to improve. If reelected, I would look to engage residents in discussion to gather input to identify the desired future directions for our town.
The composition of the Planning Board is an important aspect that voters should be aware of. Presently, due to member turnover, the Planning Board members are relatively new. Experience and familiarity with the rules, regulations and responsibilities of the board is critically important as our town moves forward. My 13 years of experience on the Planning Board would prove beneficial to Hampden.
In closing, I hope the voters of Hampden will see the importance of having an experienced, honest, and responsible person to help guide Hampden in the future years. I would appreciate voters casting their vote for me. Thank you.
John Matthews
Hampden
