Manchester-By-The-Sea Planning Board Meeting | November 9, 2026

The November 9, 2026 Manchester-by-the-Sea Planning Board meeting included approval of an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan to adjust lot lines among existing properties on Smith Point Road, with no reported change in ownership or driveway access. The board also held a public hearing on proposed commercial-sign zoning amendments, then voted to recommend the article to Town Meeting and approve an amendment to its wording. The proposed rules address sign sizes and types, downtown districts, lighting, and a less burdensome review process; existing signs would generally be grandfathered unless changed.

The main procurement-related update concerned the town’s facilities assessment work for the fire, police, and public works departments. A request for qualifications for owner’s project manager (OPM) services has been issued, with approaches under consideration ranging from a standalone OPM to OPM services combined with engineering and architectural services. The discussion reported approximately 25 respondents and five interviewees, but no selection or project-site decision had been made. About $800,000 in previously appropriated funds was cited for this initial phase. The board also discussed wastewater treatment capacity and ongoing equipment improvements, but no related procurement action or spending vote was reported.