Zoning Board of Appeals: November 5, 2026

The Chelmsford Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on November 5, 2026, considered a sign variance and continued review of a Chapter 40B housing proposal. The board unanimously approved a variance for a monument sign at 301 Boston Road, requested by Express Sign and Graphics Inc. on behalf of Waypoint Community Church. The main hearing concerned 243 Riverneck Road, a proposed 23-unit development (seven single-family homes and 16 townhouses), including six affordable units. The applicant described updated wetland plans, stormwater measures, sewer needs, and a proposed conservation area; residents raised concerns about traffic, groundwater and wetlands, rare-species habitat, screening, and school capacity. No development contract or construction award was made.

The board agreed to proceed with a wetlands peer review; a consultant quote of $9,500 was noted against a $15,000 peer-review cap. It deferred decisions on additional peer reviews pending further information. The applicant was asked to provide updated ownership/site-control and landscaping information and to engage with the Board of Health; town departments will be asked to review the revised plans. The Riverneck Road hearing was continued to November 24, 2026. The meeting also tabled discussion of minutes until December. No procurement contract was awarded.