The Daily News today covers the rezoning issue for two parcels on Storey Ave.
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x811213367/Council-blocks-rezoning
You can see the ordinance here: http://www.cityofnewburyport.com/Planning/Planning%20Board/Council-Order-Storey-Avenue-ReZoning-10-11-2011.pdf
The area via a google map is here
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As the story says, the vote was 6-5 in favor of rezoning these two parcels. Voting against were me aka Ed Cameron, Robert Cronin, Ari Herzog, Steve Hutcheson and Kathleen O'Connor Ives. Because changing zoning requires a 2/3 vote, the measure failed needing 8 votes.
The reasons for my 'no' vote are pretty simple:
- Usually matters like this are vetted extensively in committee with lots of public input before they come to the Council floor. This proposed zoning change was introduced to the Council on October 17 with little explanation as to the rationale other than it was for a CVS and there was a possibility that the City would get open space. The Planning and Development Committee spent approximately 20 minutes covering the topic at a Joint Hearing with the Planning Board....just before the full Council meeting last night.
- Although it's only two small parcels, the implications of rezoning, especially for an incredibly intensive use in an already poorly managed area, need to be carefully examined by the Council and not simply rubber-stamped to keep to a developer's timetable. The At-Large Council candidates got an earful in October at a forum with residents of the Woodman Way area who pointed out the poor management and planning of traffic flow both by the City and MassHighway. If you've tried to take a left into Russell Terrace from 113 or take a left from Guiseppe's onto Low Street, you'll understand the point.
That said, there were good reasons to vote for this, as expressed last night by supporters, including the City gets a large chunk of open space, the City would be encouraging business, and increasing the tax base.
Councillor Herzog today filed a notice of reconsideration. So there will be more to come.
