Zoning identifies the process by which a new building, addition, or change of use is reviewed and a decision made. Residents and businesses want land use and development review processes that clearly identify the City’s expectations, that lay out the steps to be followed and guide an applicant towards the desired outcome in the shortest amount of time possible. Property owners often say a quick no can be better than a long yes.
Zoning Redesign offers an opportunity to provide clear regulations and procedures that result in predictable, efficient, and coordinated review processes.
Join us on Thursday, April 12 from 6:30-8:00pm in the Druker Auditorium of the Newton Free Library (330 Homer St., Newton) as we discuss ways to tailor the zoning process such as:
- Creating a hierarchy of review and decision-making bodies tailored to the nature of the request;
- Incorporating design review;
- Creating a master plan process for educational campuses;
- Establishing a clear process and criteria for Special Permit amendments and consistency rulings.
The Zoning Redesign project is a comprehensive look at updating and improving Newton’s Zoning Ordinance in more than 60 years. This presents an opportunity to better align Newton’s core value of environmental sustainability with best practices in regulation to achieve climate resilience, clean water, and quality of our environment.
The Zoning Redesign initiative also aims to create a zoning code that is more flexible, predictable, and context-based in order to encourage development and redevelopment within Newton that is in keeping with the city’s celebrated character, while directing growth and economic development to the most appropriate areas.
The City’s Pattern Book represents several months of effort collecting first-hand data and analysis. You can find the complete draft online at: www.courbanize.com/newtonzoning and a printed copy at the Newton Free Library (290+ pages). The Zoning Redesign event series runs through May 2018.
Check out the series online and RSVP HERE.
Contact zoningredesign@newtonma.gov with questions.
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