There was an encouraging note of optimism on Monday evening’s Easton Town Council meeting as President Frank Gunsallus began with a statement reaffirming his commitment to civility and respect in conducting council meetings after last month’s rare breakdown of decorum during a procedural discussion. The president’s remarks are included in the highlight reel above.
Much of the agenda was to hear public comments on the somewhat complex subject of zoning amendments slated to be approved by the town council this year. In short, after a review of some 150 pages of proposed changes, some in the community have a growing concern about how and when local zoning will permit middle housing rather than traditional free-standing homes.
The Spy was particularly interested in the comments made by Pamela Reynolds, who summarized the concerns of many in the audience of what seems like a carte blanche use of middle housing, which would seriously impact Easton’s residential communities.
In the end, the Council agreed to seek more information about the proposed middle housing amendments before the discussion continued at their December meeting.
This video is approximately seven minutes in length.
SD Swan says
Nice work, Pamela!
Michael Hash says
Thank you Pam for all the research and effort you gave to proposed housing types at Poplar Hill. If allowed, it would clearly increase the density and number of residents who depend on the local infrastructure. In addition, the style of these residents in a single development would appear to be a significant and unattractive departure from the single family housing that was thought to be the intent of the developer. Fortunately, thanks to your diligence the Council has given residents of Easton more time to understand these proposed changes and have an opportunity to provide input.
Donna Kostens says
Great presentation Pam.
Thank you for taking your time in this!
Reed Fawell 3 says
Unless very carefully limited these “middle housing provisions” will work to GUT necessary and proper zoning ordinances, particular as traditional zoning laws are necessary to protect fragile and historic lands and neighborhoods such as Poplar Hill and the Club properties across Oxford Road from Poplar Hill.