Planning Board

The HCAM Planning Board meeting on August 18, 2026, focused extensively on several procurement and development-related matters. Key discussions included the approval of an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for 12 Maple Street Extension, appointments to the zoning advisory and economic development advisory committees, and detailed deliberations on proposed updates to the town charter affecting board sizes and roles. The board voted to maintain the current size of the planning board, rejecting a reduction proposal. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing site plan amendments and storm water management permits for multiple development projects, including a major site plan amendment for 87 Hayden Row involving building expansion and parking changes, and a multifamily mixed-use development at 0 and 14 Main Street and 10 Walcott Street by Capital Group Properties. The board discussed traffic impact, parking, storm water management, and public concerns, ultimately deciding to require a major site plan amendment with a public hearing for the Hayden Row project. They also scheduled a site walk for the multifamily development to better assess the project. Additionally, the board approved an earth removal permit with specific conditions for 55 Wilson Street. Throughout, the board emphasized compliance with storm water regulations, public input opportunities, and coordination with peer reviewers and town departments to ensure proper oversight of capital improvement and development projects.