[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]
I'Al 4F vp AP 4 N � *+V %,0 Cj t@ 41@@ 0 sq@ - , ot 0 a 4C) 4@N yA A) 'N" 0 4 P 0 v '$ 0 A$' 0 4@ 4ke op 9. 4 y @+ 4 4@ e No a N, sz, (;ev 4V A$W 'a, <@p coo@L Z-0 CA, 't, AT IZO, "':4 P- My A tO 40 llc@ - ir, gp NOV A 4@ 04 110 @ IV (,A @Y 4e AQ AL 't) 4,@ Vo Aq:O 00 *41 HT 404 123.5 Nl 41 .m4 P47 1977 About the Cover: The cover for this report has.been put together from newspaper headlines from stories dealing with the various stages of the Growth Policy Act. Funding Credits: The preparation and publication of this document was financed: in part through a cornr hensive planning assistance grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Devel.opmentunder t%pro visions of Section 701 of the Housing Act of 1954 (as amended); in part through a gran .t from-the Natio- h @17 Science Foundation; and in part through a grant from the Rockefeller Brothers Fund. The preparation of th Local Growth Policy Statements was in some cases assisted by grants from the American Revolution Bicent nial Administration; altogether, 168 grants were made to Local Growth Policy Committees. 0 Perspectives on Growth Excerpts from Local Growth Policy Statements An Interim Report on The Massachusetts Growth Policy Development Act Chapter 807 of the Acts of 1975 Commonwealth of Massachusetts U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA Michael S. Dukakis, Governor COASTAL SERVICES CENTER Assembled by 2234 SOUTH HOBSON AVENUE The Office of State Planning CHARLESTON, SC 29405-2413 Frank T. Keefe, Director January, 1977 COASTAL ZONE INFORMATION CENTER Property of csc Library Publication of this document approved by Alfred C. Holland, State Purchasing Agent 6M-1-77-129301 Estimated cost per copy $.85 DEC 18 1998 5352722 Acknowledgements The real credit for this document must go to the thousands of citizens throughout the State who developed the Local Growth Policy Statements represented here. The Office of State Planning accepts full responsibility for any mistakes in editing and assembling this report. The staff who have worked on this project are listed below. FrankT. Keefe, Director of State Planning Joseph L. Flatley,' Project Director Interns: Marjorie Spodi Kurt E. Schork, Deputy Director Paul M. Carey, Principal Planner Mary Johnston Peter L. Schneider, Senior Planner James MacKen John J. Judge, Principal Planner Margueritte M Dennis O'Reilly, Grapbics Frank Kinsler Lorraine Mancuso, Administrative Assistant Jean Gallivan, Secretary Levone Gainey, Secretary Loretta Spinale, Secretary The Massachusetts Growth Policy Development Act was initiated and sponsored by the Special Commission on the Effects of Growth Patterns on the Quality of Life in the Commonwealth. Their ongoing participation and cooperation has contr 4buted much to its success. Table of Contents introduction ............................. 1 Chapter 5 Some Particular Concerns Chapter I Housing ............ ........ The Growth Policy Process .............. 3 Commercial Development ...... Chapter 2 Transportation ............... Growth: Past Trends and Agriculture ................. Future Implications ..................... 7 Chapter 6 Past Growth and Its Impact .................. 7 Regionalism ............. Growth: Costs and Benefits .................. 10 Communities and Their Neighbors Future Growth and Its Consequences .......... 14 Regional Identity ............. The Desired Future ........................ 17 Resolving Common Problems ... Chapter 3 Chapter 7 The Community and Growth .......... 22 State Government ........ Community Character ...................... 22 An Evaluation of Past Performance Assets and Liabilities ....................... 25 Recommended Changes ....... Zoning .................................. 27 Home Rule ............................... 29 Index ..................... Chapter 4 The Economy and Taxes ............... 32 Jobs .................................... 32 Economic Development ..................... 34 The Economic Climate ...................... 36 Taxes ................................... 38 Introduction About one year ago, a unique piece of legislation was enacted in Massa- of a community@ position can only come from chusetts. 7hat legislation has resulted in a process whereby literally thou- entirety. The Office of State Planning apologize sands of citizens throughout the Common wealth have devoted themselves to advertently may have lifted an excerpt out of coi a critical examination of where we have been and where we are going. That 7he statewidepolicy developmentprocess is i legislation was Chapter 807 of the Acts of 1975, the Massachusetts Growth several key next steps to he undertaken based, Policy Development Act. The Growth Policy Act set in motion a process Growth Policy Statements. First, the state's designed to generate widespread participation in the development of future agencies are now completing Regional Growth growth policies, for cities and to wns, for regions, and for the state as a whole. regional agencies hasprepared a DraftReport, Local Growth Policy Committees, comprised of key local officials as well as the respective local statements within their cjtY,-en representatives, were established earlier this year in 330 communi- regional issues and opportunities, and iinallyre ties, representing over 98 percent of the state's population. These Commit- ernment. After additional citizen involvement th tees have been hard at work, articulating local growth problems ondpriori- regional level, and adoption by the regional ties and advising state government on how it might best foster that future Reports willbe forwarded to the Office of State Jc@ its citizens desire. ne next step will then involve the preparc Perspectiveson Growth is a progress report on thatprocess, andyetitis policy report to summarize the proceedings the a part of the process itself. For a clear goal of the process is devoted to the point, and to make specific draft recommendati sharing of information, the sharing ofperceptions, the sharing of values - Special Commission on Growth. The Special so that we may learn from one another @ experiences, and so that we may then be sponsoring a series of public hearings better understand one another @ points of view. Some may disagree with the to pro Ode local officials and citizens with an opp opinions expressed herein. But that is an important element of theprocess as ment upon the draft recommendations containec well. These differences must be understood in order to be addressed (or All of this - the work of the Local Groi4 respected and left alone). State government must certainly learn howitcon regional reports, the statewide report, andthep be more responsive to and supportive of the needs and values ofits citizenry. Commission - must ultimately result in action if As you will see, many of the excerpts are critical of how well state govern- ing. That action may take the form of legislativE ment has done in the post. Local governments can also learn from this self- Commission to the Massachusetts General Co examination how they can best address their own needs. And, we all can changes for state government implemented by continue to learn to better anticipate future problems and opportunities, and The important thing is that the dialogue betw together to better control our collective destinies. member comm unities should continue. The Growth Policy process is based on a notion of 'bottom -up "participa- In the Statewide Growth Policy Report, the 0. tion, rather than a "top-down "imposition of standards (as attempted in other attempting to summarize the results of the p, states). This document attempts to emulate thatphilosophy. It was assembled fashion than is possible here. But, in many respe by the Office of State Planning, but it js truly the product of the deliberations Statements stand on their own. In analyzing thE of the citizens of the Commonwealth. In selecting excerpts for inclusion here, found that reading them is the only reasonal we have attempted to choose those which are representative and which local views on various issues. If we have learn stand on their own. It must be remembered, however, that each of these ex- communities are individual and distinct from on cerpts comes from a much longer and more substantial Local Growth Policy ferences must be respected. We have been e@ Statement (typically 30 pages or more), and that a complete understanding candor and thoughtfulness of these Local State, 2 Introduction was incumbent upon us to share some of the thoughts contained therein. We only regret that we cc uldnot have 'bxcerpted "more. -- To date, we have received statements from about 300 communities, and we expect to receive at least 30 more. In this report, at least one 'bxcerpt " from each community has been selected for inclusion (see index). Further, we have attempted to structure the report by clustering the excerpts along the lines of major issues raised by communities (see table of contents). It is likely that some of the excerpts do not fit neatly within a particular topical heading. But that is a reflection of the individuality of the Local Growth Fblicy Statements, as well as an indication of the range and diversity of opinions by the citizens ofMassach usetts on the issues of growth confronting all of us. We hope that you wZ agree with us and find the statem en ts included here both interesting and controversial. We are impressed by the quality of the statements, the work that went into preparing them, and the intelligence and concern they represent. It is the citizens of the Commonwealth who hove mode this process work. This document illustrates but a smallpart of that contribution. The G Chapter I We do not see the c The naire as the end of t % We hope that the Growth Policy officials of the Co need for better rel Process and local governm the first step in cl Some of the most candid and interesting state- between state and 1 ments made by the more than 300 Local Growth Policy Committees concerned their ex- periences with this unique process itself. While A The Growth Policy many communities found the process to be valu- b too much grass and able, some of the excerpts included here are critical of that process. Their inclusion is no acci- dent: state government can - and must % In reading Grovela learn from such criticism. Growth Policy QUE By using the phrase "growth policy process" have noticed the r we simply mean the procedures set in motion by % particular sections NN the Growth Policy Act. That Act specified a SN 0 fact, been toned do number of steps to be accomplished within a set . @e @,q A the message of th timetable. Based on a questionnaire from the which it was intend Office of State Planning, each Local Committee of good intention a 04 was to develop a Local Growth Policy State- values which have ment, after holding two public hearings. (For THE SILENT MAJOR more information, see the Local Growth Policy % 104 Handbook prepared by the Office of State % 4@41 Planning.) % As a general "next it is altogether appropriate that this process Growth Policy book designed to evaluate the most desirable % other communities future growth for the cities and towns of the '16 th the recommendatio Commonwealth - shoulditselfbe evoluatedby h A theparticipants of thatprocess. We were deeply di Q apathy towards ou why; as we oursel what this was all ab A@A 4 The Growth Policy Process The town should consider appointing some In 1976 at the request of the State Legislature The members of the Gr kind of committee similar to the Growth and the Governor, the City of Boston along tee, in completing thei Policy Committee that is representative of the with the other cities and towns in Massachu- Statement, are unanim( community at large. This committee would setts is stopping to take a look at its prospec- an on-going activity o be responsible for monitoring growth trends tive and its desired future. What is our future? begun would be in the and attempting to inform townspeople and What can it be? How can Boston change its town.... The commit officials of significant changes. Auburn relationship with its surrounding cities and there be initiated a t towns and with the State to make the future committee to be kno After many hours of tedious labor, the com- what we want it to be? These are the main Planning Committee. mittee agreed to abandon the questionnaire questions that the Committee addressed and in favor of individual statements. The reason which we will try to answer in this report. The Special Commissi for this decision is that many questions simply Boston after careful review o did not fit Hancock, while others were vague Our committee was organized in mid-Feb- Policy Questionnaires, and difficult if not impossible to understand. initiate legislation tha This left us with the fear that our answers ruary and met weekly throughout the spring town. Legislation shoul might be misconstrued by individuals with months and the early summer ones. We found sideration to the popu the most honorable intentions. It is sincerely ... the kinds of discussions we had the most fiscal condition of each hoped that our thoughts will be beneficial in valuable part of the study, and we are richer the formation of the Regional Growth Policy for the experience. We hope that Lenox will Statement. be too. Despite the lack of nt Hancock Lenox hearing, the enthusiasn did attend extended We trust that you will receive these docu- We were pleased to participate, in the spirit lengthy session during ments as an initial step in the dialogue to of this Bicentennial event, with the Office of and conclusions coinci which we look forward with positive expecta- State Planning in preparing our Growth which have been discus tions. Together we may represent a new Policy Statement. It is hoped that surround- over the past several mc source of energy which can be directed ing communities will all join us in local and toward the challenges confronting our Com- regional planning for the future. Communi- We appreciate the opp monwealth in this Bicentennial Year. ties should have grounds to explore each State Planning Office' Belchertown other for common or different needs. hope that our positi The Town of North Attleboro has arrived at a Blackstone preciated and accepte crucial point in its development. Establish- that the Almighty will ment, then implementation of a total growth ours to a greater unders policy will encourage the planned, meaning- of each other, and of our ful, effective growth that a community with its face to the future must have. North A ttleboro The G This questionnaire has enabled us to take a Unfortunately there 'o IF 4" specific inventory of ourselves and our town. :P skepticism in our L e, The reality is that we are small, and are feel- mittee regarding f being such. Everything that Questionnaire. Th ing the impact o 4;P appliesto cities does not automatically apply pervades the group to small towns, and this should and must be Xo what the townspeo AP 0 A 4$' recognized by the Great and General Court. will do what it wan Halifax ch as this to be hel su ed to educate and e 'o One concern that the Committee has had 6 0 That approach has @@P' 9 with Chapter 807 is that the Act appears to C"i 'Z@ + planning process fo Y be founded on the premise that the State does 1P v, Q In other words, a tr not know what cities and towns want. Fra- e e"C' lip lished before citize mingham has repeatedly expressed its con- N@ effort into an exer 4'@ NP cerns about various aspects of growth to the committee we wo Governor, the various Secretaries, the Legis- progress reports r lature, and the several regional organiza- state policies devel tions to which it belongs. Despite evidence Z 74@ naire. that the State is not paying attention, the Committee has prepared this statement with X, NP 6 so - "Q I'll !0 %1 pq, 4@Z @Z 1@1 The State Legislat Iq 0 the expectation that it will be carefully re N. Z "Z Z" questionnaire seri N viewed by the State. e a Framingham V51 N. appropriate legisla IN vz 'so o@l The Local Growth Policy Committee of ep, 41 4$' A growth policy mu Worcester is aware that nearly all of our rec- N use decisions. Alth ommendations for regional and State aid to N, attempted to mak 4 help facilitate growth in our City will he de 5s@ @$' 4 Z'@' e- 01@1 Z 4 q, would limit conflic pendent upon favorable action by the State Zt, Z@p "N clearly legitimate 'o Legislature. Therefore, we strongly recom- RN Co _@O 4@ regarding the use mend that if the cities in our state are going to Z@' fl-;. e . C" '.k continue to support the survival of the Com- ,-N kN these competing in q�> major decisions, th monwealth, the Legislature must be commit- N5 :o. .4@1 4@1 .; q, 4e .4A 1'0@ such decisions ca ted to this issue as a top priority. 1@ people of the comm Worcester P, q, q$' 4@'0 1b, 6 The Growth Policy Process This report (i.e., the Questionnaire) prepared In many cases, legislation goes into effect This Committee wishe., by the Office of State Planning is certainly an without a funding scheme, or the burden is ness to work with other example of non-responsive government. It is placed on the local community. Case in point region and the state to written in a nebulous manner as if someone - Massachusetts Growth Policy Act has re- eral quality of life for needs 'research material for a doctorial thesis. quirements for advertising of public hear- proved in the@,f uture. The questions are written in such a way as to ings, holding hearings, and naturally re- promote answers which are definitely biased quires secretarial help, etc. Each community The Office of State Plan toward greater State control of the cities and is expected to absorb the cost. In this case, towns in the Commonwealth. The they are minor, but, in the case of other pro- late and pay careful z preparation and costs for this project far out- grams, they are much more expensive. and recommendation weigh the expected advantages. It is a good Pittsfield policy committee in de example of trying to force more government and responsible growt down the throats of the citizens of the Com- If the work and thought which has gone into monwealth. monwealth, rather than the better govern- growth policy on state and local levels is to ment, which we expect with the increasing mean anything, the communication should A citizen's committee deficit we keep receiving. We do not wish to continue - within the town and between the ommended growth pla surrender Burlington's individualism to State town and state boards. Warren cate those areas that ar jurisdiction during this Bicentennial Year (or for development and any other year for that matter), moderate or serious pr Burlington We applaud the State for the purpose and in- and rock conditions, tent of the Growth Policy Act.... The public availability of public se The work of the Growth Policy Committee in apathy towards your efforts was completely planning and defining the issues comes at an underestimated. Dracut appropriate time. Being the only citizens' group, the Committee feels its work should The committee has come to the realization continue as long as this kind of input is that the scope of the questionnaire is irrele- needed by the Selectmen, appointed and vant and possibly wholly non-applicable to a elected boards, and by consulting firms who community such as ours. The questionnaire is are now charged with dealing with sensitive over burdened with opinions and hypotheti- local issues. The Committee has performed a cal possibilities but very few questions deal- further function.As an example, the Growth ing with our problems. Policv Committee, working with the Com- WestNewbury mittee on Town Government and the Select- men, have brought the issue of more efficient town government before the Special Town Meeting in the form of an article on the warrant. Merrimac Past Gi Chapter 2 Past Growth and Its Impact Growth: A "status quo" condition ... has been in effect The character and for about 25 years. There is every indication dergone dramatic Past Trends and that this trend will prevail into the indefinite teen years. The to future. The continuing protective attitude veloped remarkabl Future Implicaflons and desires of the residents, with their at- Howeve Ir, the rapi tendent political power, will tend to protect community has sh One of the most important tasks facing Local the status quo, encourage upgrading of some lems which can o( Growth Policy Committees was to respond to a blighted areas and prevent change in the monitored by long number of questions critical to any growth town from its single family/two family char- sider the overall I policy. What has been the impact of post growth acter. Belmont munity. and change in the community over the post ten to fifteen years? Based on the community@ own Obviously, the task of lumping together the Open space has values, has that impact been good or bad? entire list of development changes, both trolled by the Town Based on post trends, how can the city or town good and bad, which have impacted upon our services and be expected to grow and change in the future? the City with the intent of ascertaining the pace with our gro What is the "desired future" of the community? net effect of these changes will at best pro- not as good as they Many Growth Policy Committees made a dis- duce only a subjective determination. Given political climate. tinction between where their community was this limitation, it is suggested that the overall headed and where they would like it to go. The impact of past development changes would The influx of buil various descriptions of the difference between be perceived as moving the City in a positive brought with it a m the most likely future and desired futures of the direction. This is not to say Quincy has ex- lation who former cities and towns across the Commonwealth un- perienced a boom. Rather, that the City as a derscore an increased awareness and sensitivity mature urban area has been able to maintain areas and who exp to the complex growth issues facing Massachu- a stable base which, in itself, is an accom- setts. The statements included in this chapter plishment. The balance, is however, tenuous. reflect a growing concern among our citizens Without a constant monitoring of the condi- The most importar regarding the social, economic, and environ- tion in areas such as apartment unit develop- that it has left very mental costs and benefits associated with ment, local employment opportunities and truly suitable for fu growth and change. CBD development, or without an immediate Finally, the descriptions of the "desired response to problems su6h as Quincy Bay Shutesbury is a rur futures" of the communities included in this pollution and the declining quality of ulation of 788 resic chapter can be viewed, in one sense, as the housing in certain sections of the City, this thelast 10to 15 ye "growth policy" of those particular cities and balance could easily shift the City, overall, to is that our populat towns. a negative direction. (1) uin cy the last 10 years. 8 Past Growth and Its Impact Past growth has created a middle and upper At first, it was a colon middle class bedroom community with most attracted by the lake residents working outside of the Town. De- weather and the town velopment of business and service industries then, as time went on has been discouraged. The reputation of the tant cities became les school system (deserved or otherwise) and many, the town took o other attractive features of the Town greatly of a bedroom com increased the demand for housing raising dramatic increase in property values and screening out low- who found Ashfield's c income residents. Rapid growth resulted in an ideal spot to enjoy large capital outlays for increased Town and finally, expansion services and caused an escalating tax rate. Massachusetts contrib As growth threatened environmental quality, ployees and students the character of the Town, and the mainte something of a dorm nance of open space, the community re- campus. sponded by becoming increasingly Rapid growth in almost all facets of our com- conservation minded. Although more open munity can best describe what has been hap- Lifestyles have chang land has been preserved in Lexington than in pening in Westfield for the past fifteen years. have throughout the most communities inside Route 128, develop- Westfield single persons, both ment has progressed too rapidly for a really people and single-par successful preservation program as has oc- What's been happening in terms of growth smaller families. The curred elsewhere in this region. Lexington is and development: There has been very little housing demand, retE now approaching the end of its growth as reside.ntial or commercial growth in the last 5 tion program. available, buildable land is nearly used up. years in Colrain. Most of the growth has been Further significant growth can occur only if the expansion of the Kendall Mills, the major zoning permits more multiple-unit housing. industry in town. The mill is now planning to Then came the WachL Lexington construct a waste disposal plant in Colrain taking of mills and ho which would be favored by town officials. The M.D. C. now owns The north migration of non-whites in the Colrain approximately 1/3 lower economic income into Boston caused Boylston. The mills ne an,outward migration of higher income mid- From 1754 when this area was bought from of the people displac( dle class ethnic groups, largely Jews and the Stockbridge Indians, the population rose many years before the Irish. Better highways improved access to to a peak of 474 in 1810. Then a long period Canton. The median income rose as more of decline set in; The 1860 U.S. Census professional middle class moved in. Quality showed that there were 350 residents.... In The principal growth schools followed the entrance of the profes- 1970 there were 45 year round residents. been residential and sional class, and the schools then attracted Mount Washington Town center, along e more people. Canton around the major lake Past The town of Leyden is a small populated hill Business and industry has played a minor role It is possible that town. Its major asset is an environment of in the growth of the town. Growth has result- could have att open space, farm and woodland resources ed from increased residential building, pre- commercial use t which we would like to preserve. The land is dominantly apartments. Since 1970, for without sacrificing suitable for planting and grazing as well as every five residences built, at least four were town. Planning Ion growing apples. While Leyden's residents en- apartment units. This apartment growth has the difficulty whi joy (and treasure) the rural way of life, we find accounted for over 70% of the new residents respect to Plum Isla it difficult, if not impossible, to control in town over .the last five years. Boxborough water, lack of se-o orderly use of timberline and agricultural crowding. land. Leyden The establishment of Hanscom Field in 1942 introduced probably the greatest change for Tewksbury's past r Uxbridge remains a quiet New England town Bedford. After World War II, Lincoln Lab, and the character of th and enjoys the benefits of such. The town still the forerunner of the Air Force Electronic Sys- facilities and servi has abundant open space, a relatively clean tem Division moved to Hanscom. Together keep up with its pop environment and has many aesthetic features with the construction of Rt. 128, this helped which are attractive and contribute to the to touch off a boom in electronics related in- character and quality of life which its dustrial development that continued well Nahant is a water- residents value. However, the stagnation and into the 60's. This "spin off" from Hanscom depends upon clea disinvestment which have occurred have had Field had a major impact on the economy. for our municipal st negative impacts. Uxbridge Bedford semi-industrial aur There has been an influx of high income not adverse to t Monson has enjoyed steady growth at the white-collar people to live in the new higher polluting industry rate of 1% annual increase in population for income apartments such as Granada High- economic health of the past 100 years. This rate of growth has re- lands. More elderly people are moving to the deeply concerned mained unchanged during the 10 years be- city to take advantage of programs and ments. tween 1965 and 1975. Monson housing for them. Young families of moderate income are moving out to find adequate The biggest negati In general, growth is viewed in negative housing within their means, and are being re- to the town is the terms with regard to impact on the previously placed to some extent by low income families been used up and t rural atmosphere of the community. This is from Everett, Chelsea, Somerville, and insufficient. true of impacts on natural resources and tax Boston. rate as well. However, the growth which has Malden occured is viewed as providing betterschools Holden has chaing and services, as well as improving the mix of The scattered development result of uncon- que New England people in Marshfield. trolled growth led to a scattered and costly farms, open fields, Marshfield response to deliver municipal services. burdened suburb o Millbury 10 Growth: Costs and Benefits Growth: Costs and Benefits For Barnstable in particular and the Cape as The Town of, Chelmsford a whole, its assets breed problems. Its attrac- experienced a rate of g tive environment and abundant recreational in the Commonwealt water bring tourism which sustain the growth over a relativel economy. But they also bring people who effected change in the desire to move here.... The tourist and im- ture of the town. No Ion migrants cause great stresses to be applied to sidered only a su-burb o the fragile water-edge environments, had become a bedroo destroying the goose that lays the golden sprawling Route 128 eggs. Barnstable cal complex. While there is still room for more residents, A low tax rate, low po uncontrolled growth at anything like this rate much open space are p over the next ten years would ruin the town's uncontrolled growth th rural character (its most precious asset), ful to the continuatio pollute the water table by overtaxing the Now that Ashfield has become conscious of charm. facilities for waste disposal, and so increase what uncontrolled growth can do to a com- the demand for schools and municipal munity, there is significant concern for its Chatham expects resid services that the tax rate would rise more future. Many fear that we may be on the verge off which will cause tr rapidly than the tax base could support or the of a massive burst of adverse growth and de- decline which will cau summer residents could continue to accept velopment which the town would be helpless leave causing a declin( on their second homes. West Tisbur to control, much less prevent. There is mount- causing per pupil cost t Y ing pressure for further By-law revisions and We associate increased costs with growth other restrictive measures to insure that the more than increased benefits because of lack community's atmosphere and environment In the last few years, He of control over growth. We hope the town can be preserved. Ashfield come to appreciate moi control its growth which means the town has with which some of th to offer more than its neighbors so we can ex- curring, largely as th ercise control over, for example, type of in- If the present growth continues there will be taken outside Hawley dustry we accept. deterioration of our older business districts steps have already bee Plain ville and ethnic neighborhoods.... There will be a the residents of the Tom loss of wetlands through illegal fill and build- decisions. In 1974, a S Rutland is a vanishing resource - a unique ing (commercial and road) unless the laws authorized the Town's S "quality of life" which is highly vulnerable to are enforced. There will be an influx of apart- Hawley Planning Board encroachments. ments, gas stations and strip joints unless the Town has begun the R u t1an d zoning laws are enforced. Revere subdivision control, to real estate developme minimum standards. Growt A positive side Of the recent growth is that it The rapid growth has enabled the community to become more sophisticated and aware of the factors of growth and what it which in turn rai means to the future development of the com- factors of the Tow munity. The citizens have taken an active in- placed on educati terest in planning for the future of the Town, tion and cultural and during the recent recession the Town's buyers were prim growth rate has slowed slightly and has growing families a given the Town the opportunity to examine in the school plant the growth and control the growth once the rapidly increased t Town returns to a normal level. Mansfield ness. The overall impact appears bad, because the Increase in popula quality of life has not improved, growth has increased demand The positive aspects the influx of new peo- been improperly supervised, and the over- whichinturnhascE ple and ideas, and the increased involvement crowding of land has not been addressed As the general re of citizens in town government, while sub- properly. Lowell new job opportunit stantial, do not equal the price paid by the outside of Town, community. Unless we recognize that our The major negative impact of growth has creased through past growth has had a negative impact, it will been the change in the character of the com- arteries, and a shr be difficult to form the commitment munity. Growth has increased the gap be- nesses. The latter n necessary to prevent a recurrence in the tween the "haves" and "have nots" and the and decreased eml future. Such changes are neither inevitable result has been a polarization of the residents nor uncontrollable. Milford that did not exist in the past. NorthAndover Open land has be ment conversions f The impact of growth, the transition from There is a widening certainty that growth creased the numbe rural to suburban character was accelerated, does not measure health or happiness, lation. Stable cha tax burdens increased by larger school popu- dignity, compassion, beauty or delight and velopment has sta lations, and the social fabric (formerly small that these are certainly worthy aspirations. rate is gradually c town and tight knit) unraveled and was re- Somerville (Tentative Statement) the tax base lags. placed by separate family units acting more a high rate. Olde independently. Richmond couples have troub price range. Growth has brought a broader social and economic base to the community - good for Longmeadow and the area. Longmeadow 12 Growth: Costs and Benefits With rapid commercial, industrial and The most important factor in determining It has been said by son housing growth during the past 10 years, Saugus' future is the level of services the Town has a schizo'phre Burlington is experiencing an identiy crisis citizens are willing to pay for, coupled with good or bad for the Tow as a community. Is this community evolving programs and/or legislation that are an inconsistent outloo into a Boston bedroom community or another mandatory upon us. As demands rise, costs dents dislike higher lo commercial and industrial city in its own will also rise. This leaves two courses of the tax increase in past right? It cannot be both. BurlYngton action: either expand the base upon which the unwillingness of the the revenues are generated or reduce some of for fewer "services" ( the Town's services. If expansion is the course land aquisitions, etc.). I Newburyport's population growth has been followed at some point Saugus may lose its is a desire often expre small in terms of numbers but significant in its residential flavor. Population growth can be type facility in Town to new found diversity.... Overall impacts of influenced by the community through people can get togethe growth, change, and development in New- zoning. Saugus ly on a day-to-day basi buryport are positive with community experi- such a facility would pr encing renewed sense of pride and spirit in The natural and environmental resources of a in a Town Meeting. Th the city's character. Some problems still exist town are undeveloped woodlands and green one would have to s (i.e., high unemployment) but the community areas. These have been reduced by home negative effects of the feels confidence in its ability to overcome building on large tracts. The character of the light of other commu them. . . . Growth in the last decade has had a town is now more suburban than rural. possible that some of t positive effect on the quality of life in New- Family housing generally results in a fiscal the past could have bee buryport, (and has clearly planned pressures disadvantage to the town because the costs of foresight and planning on low income people). Newburyport municipal services for police, fire, highway, the loss of our fa sewer, and particularly schools, are more pressures which will I Loss of employment opportunities, popula- than the taxes the municipality can levy on valuation, and the nece tion loss (primarily in the young adult popula- the land receiving the benefits. servation land in large tion), lack of investment in property, and de- Westwood the Town's character an clining tax base has increased community problems while reducing the resources to The Town of Marion has experienced a slow deal with the problems. and constant growth rate, which has allowed The broadening of the HaverMl it to maintain its character as a rural seacoast feature about our most community. It has been able to maintain a loss of open space and There have been no significant changes in stable tax rate because the demand for in- are the worst features. existing physical'conditions. There has been creased services have been well-planned substantial rehabilitation and reinvestment and astute financial planning has permitted in older residential and commercial-in- the Town to increase its productivity. Maron dustrial structures, helping to stabilize old and aging areas of the town (e.g., the CBD/in- town area and Shawsheen). 4ndover Growtf There are definitely costs and benefits asso- By being naive the town has made mistakes. Principal failure w ciated with growth and development, which However, the concern of the town to preserve control the rate at would spill over municipal boundaries. its assets and minimize or eliminate its liabili- governed largely However, the town of Essex desires to remain ties has resulted in improving policies decisions. This fail as independent as possible. We feel that due (Zoning, Conservation, Wetland restrictions, in areas more imm to the small size of the town and the method of Board of Health) that will help insure quality diction. our government, we are able to react much development. If we continue to generate con- better to the needs of the townspeople and cern, our policies and town will continue to Growth in Amher are able to provide these needs on a much improve. Boxborough balance of social a more economical basis. Essex town and that it hF The impact of commercial growth, develop- and interests of the In all this growth, the homeowner needs and ment and change has been both positive and it has those of other wants more services and he presently finds he negative: along with a desirable increase in can no longer afford to pay for these services the availability of consumer services has (negative). The cost of streets and drainage, come in some instances a negative impact on The proposed n etc. make Billerica an expensive town in water quality and the environment (in- Montague would which to live (negative). We have lost creased traffic problems, encroachments in beneficial effects o industry over the years, e.g., mills and B. & M. the flood plain, for example) and an in- growth would be (negative). High costs of schools, town creased demand for town services. At this property values wo services, drainage, streets, etc.; no point, fiscal costs to the town of this com- conception of future generation needs mercial growth may have outstripped (negative). Better mix of people, ethnic, revenues generated by this development. We would like a f financial, educational; schools, sewer, police Acton alleviate the tax bu and fire protection is on the way to becoming The change from a rural vacation/farmmig by the residential h adequate (positive). High taxes to pay for the cal purposes). services (negative). Town grew like "topsy" community into a suburban bedroom com- (negative). munity of Boston with a substantial economic Billerica base of its own (i.e., Mall, Industrial Park, The lack of much cc Clinic), and the regional clean industries dicate that the ma Not long ago, one dragged a useless machine from towns (e.g., Bedford). It has. been posi- reasonably conter into the back pasture and it mouldered down tive in terms of development of the town and happened hereabo into the ground. Now it is illegal to have more providing a broader economic base, service probably most wo than one junk car on the premises. Peru facilities, and job opportunities for an ex- goodthi .ngs we alre panding populace.- Negative aspects are the encroachment on the environment, and the overdevelopment of the rural New England atmosphere endemic to us all. Burlington 14 Future Growth and Its Consequences Future Growth and Its Consequences The prospects of "uncontrolled" growth in The comparatively h terms of natural resources is especially fright- surrounding towns ening for a seaside community such as Dux- pressure for new growt bury. Duxbury attractions that also pro growth are the more p The people of Cheshire do not want rapid and environment and growth - they like the rural characteristics schools. Sewerage I and they want to see them maintained. There (should it be forced upo are not, however, adequate regulations in ef- make possible a dens fect at this time to insure meeting this goal. It raise taxes considerab is felt the best vehicle at this time would be important single factor improved and more restrictive zoning laws. development of this c These would include larger lot size to insure ability to mobilize and e independence from municipal water and to take on the respons sewage; expansion of present trailer parks by long range planning in and responses given her permit coupled with restrictions on mobile homes on individual lots; and laws which would allow a maximum number of new home The local Conservatio building permits per year to restrict the rate of growth. with State and Federal Cheshire flood control, etc., hav on growth. This is not Newly arrived residents see Bolton as a fresh, Eventually, it will resul unspoiled country town. They revel in its sim- and more valuable deve plicity and countryness. Almost unanimous- ly, however, they envision Bolton becoming Pressures for growth will probably be modest The construction of apa just like those towns to the East from which in Princeton. Owing to lack of water and versally opposed. Urbz many' of them have emigrated, a town sewer utilities it is unlikely that large busi- and subsequent loss of burdened with major suburban problems. ness/industrial establishments will be I at- cried by old-timers and These people feel that the more attractive tracted to the community. Princeton they try to make the town, the more others will want to move in. The constant question is, Extensive suburban development would We are a "rural island' why does Bolton have to be like its neighbors destroy the small town "feeling" of Shirley, rapidly submerged by to the East? What can Bolton do to preserve and would help turn people off from involve- and development. With its own image, and still contribute to the ment in town affairs. Many things could be it is, it is hard to assess t general benefit of the region? Bolton improved without spoiling the character of shape of developm6nt ir the town. Shirley Future Growth ar Growth in Somerville has to be identified with If we realize now that we are growing and Drastic changes ar rejuvenation. The city has no vacant land on plan now for future growth, this impact will Change is occurrin which development can take place, but not be shocking. It is important to elect and ceptably. Increasir cities, eventually developed, continually appoint people to positions in town govern- Street is an exampl change... . Growth must be concentrated on ment who realize where we are and where we spots such as Wyo arresting decay and stabilizing neighbor- are going. All assets can be protected if the and at the hospital hoods, on modernization, on maximizing the growth is steady, reasonable, and planned - caused by outside f use of open space and injecting new life to an Northbridge that the city now h old city. The focus must be on the elimination destiny. The abili of blight, first by detecting the blighted Growth does not have to mean industrializa- Appeals Committe areas, and then by drawing up a realistic pro- tion, pollution, or increasing our population. is an example. gram for eliminating the blight, for removing It can mean a growth more desirable - the influences which produce blight, and for aesthetically, ecologically and economically. The town will bec strengthening all neighborhoods in the city. This is a direction, it is hoped, that the town lated, and also wil Somerville would take in future planning. Charlemont business establishn It is difficult to determine whether there will many of these gra be any growth whatsoever. There are many There are some people in town who are satis- presently zoned re factors which the town cannot control; fied with the present conditions in Colrain fairly large increa perhaps a major highway will go through the and are therefore content to see it remain the dwelling units, gr town or an industry will decide to relocate same. There are others who would like to the MBTA's rapid t here. Hanson strengthen the town's economic base and town) and even fu believe that Colrain will not be able to local rule can We believe that with proper controls the town survive without economic development. If welcomed. of North Andover can accommodate growth is kept to a minimum, then the ever-in- balanced growth without appreciable ad- creasing burden of town expenses will be laid Woburn most likel verse effects on the economy or the ecology of on a small town population who will soon be more of a center the town. New planning techniques must be unable to bear that burden. Colrain performing many employed and future planning must continu- towns as well as th ally take into account the effects of growth on Quality life for individuals should be main- eral governments. equity, the economy, and ecological factors. tained or enhanced in a way that treats all planner, priorities NorthAndover citizens equitably, but is still efficient. In- as to types and clude in quality of life - natural world, man- while keenly mind In view of these circumstances the current made world, and' social organizations, the people. trend seems to be to gloss over the problems, whereby people work together in business build too much on too little, and intrude into and government. Petersbarn the harbor-front open space. Provincetown 16 Future Growth and Its Consequences Unless certain steps are taken, Rochester will Because of the restrictive zoning practices, as Our natural environme continue to have increased residential well as general economic conditions, the watered, green habitat growth with some very spotty commercial de- high costs of construction 'and land, it has ideal for low density s velopment based on individual variances or been very difficult to encourage new industry But as development co permits from the Board of Appeals. Rochester to locate within the City. For the same current rates, this natv reasons, it has been very difficult to en- be compromised. To r courage the development of housing that ment is unrealistic, The probable impact of the most likely future would satisfy all of the needs of the City. direction and pace of d is bankruptcy. A small town such as Rowley Open land now available for development is course. could not support rapid expansion without too expensive for the development of single some sort of tax base other than personal family homes or low and moderate income property taxes. Multi-family apartments will multi-unit housing. The only open land Most members of the pr give us a transient population uninterested in potentially available for development is on express doubts about t the future of the town, while it depletes our re- the fringe of the City where facilities such as in terms of existing buil sources. Rowley public transportation, shopping areas, play- development at a reas ground areas and schools are not convenient. words, Rutland is, to a Newton mercy of developers. Factors influencing future growth, develop- plan and goals for the ment, and change will most likely come from needed. regulations, both state and federal, which The Town of Bridgewater is no different than will make public low-cost housing a definite other small communities and we are very well future with individual communities having aware of this. In talking with other communi- We will be overbuilt; all little to say on such regulation. ties such as ourselves and being world ob- expanded." Unattracti Bellingham servers, we realize that we cannot afford any ture of housing, comme type of large home building under the dustry. There has been a continuous trend toward present conditions. Being a bedroom type urban sprawl and spread-out activities with- community, so to speak, wishing to retain in the city of Chicopee. It results in the lack of some of our rural atmosphere, the tax base As the town is still only support for city-wide projects and the contin- would not exist to allow the multiplicity of sensitive long-range pl uation of the strong neighborhood system. municipal services that would be demanded; pitfalls posed by unche Chicopee schools, fire, police, highway, water, sewer, in nearby communities. etc. To expect that this would be funded by The amount of time consumed in policy- individual property owner taxes is ridiculous. The impact of the most making by the legislature is detrimental to all It is expected that within the next fourteen spiraling taxes and a lo concerned. In most cases, programs lack ad- years that there would be an increase of community. ministrative capabilities such as in welfare about 6,000 people in our population. where a few benefit, and others are left be- Bridgewater hind, such as the elderly as far as housing and medicalcare. Tewksbury The Desired Future We would like whatever growth comes to Slow growth of the town was cited as being a One "fact" should blend into what is here and not to show at all. good way to insure the preservation of our report, we might c There are ways to encourage future growth to scenic beauty. Florida problems, and exac do ju!it -that. We recommend that the town dot the i's, but we offer incentives to developers who are willing Our present growth committee favors non- should remain a to reuse existing buildings and landscapes. If growth. The term is a poor one for in the Uni- unique communit we really care about keeping our castles from ted States it has negative connotations. We century is done. A n other eras, we must use every available tool wish we could coin a new word but it means meet in 2000 A.D. at our disposal to make their reuse attractive we do not want to grow in population, have to those with the means for providing it. shopping centers, attract industries, etc., but Lenox to maintain and improve the quality of life Our goal is to pe that we now have. Stockbridge community, our s Residential growth should be encouraged to honesty and integr progress at a moderate pace so that the com- The desired future for this community would in collusion, shoul munity may gradually absorb the cost of ex- be one in which residential, agricultural, and ideals and values t panding services, such as education, fire and limited light industry could harmonize ever, we would st police protection. The rate of residential de- together in keeping with the rural character honesty and integr velopment can be controlled and monitored government. by increasing the minimum size for a resi- of the community. South Hadley dential lot. This may be indirectly ac- The desired future complished by tightening the regulations for In the end (if there is one) Boylston will remain cester see is one t subsurface sewage disposal. a bedroom community, but will simply have achieve. Many of North A ttleborough many more bedrooms. Boylston front the City are Based upon our survey of the town, the one answer - the sol vastly overriding issue and desire of the In conclusion, the Newton Local Growth within the power o citizens of West Newbury is to maintain its Policy Committee is in favor of moderate the Council, the Bo existing rural atmosphere. The people of growth, development and change in an im- to one end. There West Newbury want to maintain the char- aginative well-planned manner which tion and a lack of acter of the town exactly as it is today. insures that the trade-offs of decisions are who can work withi WestNewbury clearly articulated. Newton wealth. Many task are achieved. The For Monterey, the best growth policy is a no- Town has time to determine future direction will take it. growth policy. Aside from small growth 111 the of growth. Town officials simply have to present business district and construction of recognize this as an opportunity and then a Community center, the desired growth of take advantage of it. Monterey is to keep its open spaces, farms, Colroin forests and land lakes just as they are. Monterey 18 The Desired Future The worst possible future impact would result A healthy community requires a blend of The desired future w from an influx of transient people causing young and old, native and newcomer, all of utilize its resources in residential growth without industrial growth. whom have something to contribute to the talents of a diversified Salisbury community in solving the problems of today. ship of its skilled profes Hancock of its historic heritage, p The desired future would include an in- working class citizenry, creased awareness of the potential inherent Most people who live in Middlefield do so be- sectional one-upmansh in existing structures for adaptive reuse, the cause it is a small rural town and they like it together to provide a f a potential of the Merrimack River as an that way and want to keep it that way. solution to the very real aesthetic and recreational resource, and the Mjdclleheld woven in the fabric of ou stabilization of neighborhoods. The signifi- If we exercise local controls and take effec- cant difference between the most likely tive part in regional decisions, the most likely Our community needs g future and the desired future is the aggres- future can be the desired future.... We are a recreational opportuniti sive revitalization of the "downtown" area of the city for a mixture of commercial, resi- suburb. We like it. Most residents, rather than of the Merrimack River dential, and light industrial uses. being born here, cliose Wellesley. The De- downgraded as a recre ,@10ver@ill sired Future is like the likely future because of Heritage State Park and We would like to see Groveland remain a bed- the desire of the citizens. Wellesley tural Park should be de There should be more c room community-with no change in its basic The overwhelming desire would be to not University of Lowell fac character. The addition of some commercial swimming pool, opera establishments and light industry would be have the town grow in population. As this is gym, baseball fields, e beneficial. Grovelan unrealistic, the difference between the most established a reputati d likely future and the most desired future or where everyone wouldfE growth pattern could be in the areas of rede- study programs should Active efforts to cooperate with nearby towns velopment of the center of town, the improve- to solve problems so that state involvement ment in the appearance of Rt. 1, lack of in- city in image, improved will not be necessary. Cohasset creased industrial zoning and loss of autonomy. The more esthetically attractive a The objective is to pro We will continue to be a "Bedroom Com- community is, the more it attracts people and munity that embraces t munity" until we have proper water, sewer- industry and the stronger the town can be in facilitated by housing ar age and a better tax base. enforcing zoning which in turn gives the com- the citizens of the town. Acushnet munity more control over its future. Long range planning is essential to the future and should help a town retain its identity in spite of the pressures which could leave it un- noticed in the Boston to Washington megalopolis. Plainidlle Direciion: The town should take positive Although one could interpret the response to steps to guide its future rather than leave it to our Growth Policy Questionnaire as chance. Whatever happens to Plymouth in indicating a strong desire on the part of the the years to come should be controlled by the Townspeople to be "left alone" or that we do town rather than by external forces. Town not desire growth, the big problem is the government has moved a long way in this affordability of growth with its increase in the direction, but it still has a long way to go. Bal- expense of all services. Phillipston has a very ance: There is no doubt that balance should limited tax base and the taxpayer is very con- be considered the underlying theme to scious of every proposal that will cost him growth policy decisions. Balance of land uses more money. Perhaps in the future, as well as such as housing, industry, commerce, and now, State and Federal grants, more distribu-, open space should have as its goal a town tion of State and Federal funds to small com- which has broad appeal in terms of economi- munities, or any other form of "outside" help cal, social and recreational opportunities. will permit our desired future without e Plyrn o u th cessive burdens on the local taxpayer. phi]lipston The growth pol This desired future is preferable due to recommendations aesthetic reasons and for planning for those Bolton needs a more diversified population to only the first stage who "come after." We have this beautiful make it a genuine and interesting town. It strict further dev town, and those who come after have a right needs to keep its older citizens and its The town is now al to enjoy it as we do. We have the power to pre- younger couples with moderate means.... To sequences to date serve it as it is, and this is our deep responsi- keep the population from exploding would achieve a desirab bility. insure an adequate water supply, open tion, high costs ai Levereft spaces, recreation, and refuge for the metro- able natural oper Our vision of "desired future" for Tyngsboro politan area towns to the East.... To allow familiar with the would include a partial revival of farming, more apartments in existing large residences growth in neighl and the location of a number of manu- would help the problem of broad diversifica- heavy through-tra facturing or assembly-type plants that would tion - provide housing for the elderly, as and noise) and of t well as for singles and young couples. corrective facilitie add perhaps 500 salary and wage jobs full B01t0n decisively and pro time in the plants and maybe 50 to 100 tion by adopting summer jobs for young people of farms and in If continued suburbanization is inevitable, the measures advo plants. Tyngsboro we must seek sound management on town, regional, and state levels. We would like to see the process of suburbanization slowed Town must continu down, so that the pressure on our assets is re- and good governm lieved, and the character of the town pre- served. We would seek strong Town govern- ment, and support from the state. Manchestar 20 The Desired Future The over-riding goals, objectives and valu es The desired future is fc of any future growth are freedom of choice, continue to serve the c retention of the democratic process, effective not only to be the cultur and responsive government and a physical center, the educational environment beneficial to life. Basic constitu- mental center, but to E tional rights, freedom of choice in housing and improve these serv employment, educational and more available and mor opportunities, and world-wide peace and co- oil the urban magnet that n recreationai operation between nations, states, regions live in Waltham or Pe and communities must be guaranteed. The instead of living in Eas desired future shall be free from strife. We City or Utica. The succe should live in peace and harmony with ample this alternative require job opportunities, a variety of housing choice between Boston and its for persons of all ages, races and creeds. Boston and the Comm Public transportation should be accessible iation of the an apprec within and beyond the community. The cost taxpayers have been of living should be stable; the tax rate equit- citizens of this region for able. We should be able to live in freedom important, it requires a from fear. Crime should be non-existent. costs. We speak not only Open space and recreational opportunities cents terms, or in term should be ample, as well as areas for wildlife speak of costs in terms o refuge and solitude. Medical care should be pollution, noise pollutio a right without being a financial burden. We speak of services Natural resources and room for growth minority families. We s should be preserved for future generations. land that pays no taxes Food should be abundant. Racial strife port and aircraft noise. should no longer exist. There should he more In the long run, the cheapest, least wasteful, and their impact on r opportunities for leisure to enjoy life, pursue most beneficial, healthiest way to live is ac- hoods. All of these are happiness and enjoy inter-relationships with cording to life-styles that are as much in Boston city residents each other. Weymouth harmony with the natural order of things as is benefit to all the residen feasible. Certainly the land must be used to support our lives, but use does not have to result in destruction or depletion of land No change. We like it t value (actual or potential value). In fact man we feel that people in can improve the land by wise and knowl- satisfied with the com edgeable land use practices. Berkley The town lacks a set of carefully thought out Desired future: No change. We like it the way The committee gen goals and a committee is needed to make and it is. This desired future is preferable: like to see Conwa revise them as required and to annually mea- Because we feel that people in the Com- taxes must be kep sure progress toward them. Such a committee munity are satisfied with the Community the provide city servi on goals and their achievement should report way it is. Westfield expect to receive t1. annually to the town meeting and work with the parallel to the Finance Committee in re- viewing each year the town's operation and The Town of Russell expects to grow, and we No big new industr in responding to articles in the warrant. feel that we have adequate controls for the town atmosphere Peters.hom future. We expect that the desired future and desirable. Growtl the most likely future will be the same. Bussell them. Current loca Our "Desired Future" includes: (1) limited help to maintain thi controlled growth; (2) preserved water The vast majority of Franklinites favor a "No quality; (3) sewerage system (around lake Growth" or "Slow Growth" policy. Typical of first); (4) preserved open space/agricultural this is the report of our Residential Growth It is probably des land; (5) utilization of town and state land Task Force, who earlier this year, after ex- negative growth th town forest management; (6) limited in- haustive study recommended a slow to no dustry; and (7) strict zoning laws-controls. growth policy for the town, until the services There should be a Wrenthom have time to catch up with the people. Franklin as a core commun The all-encompassing objectives are to main- this by means of sta tain the present rural atmosphere and the We need the dollars and desire of local gov- effect, discourage s spirit of the community. These can best be ernment officials to make it happen. Better achieved by recognizing use of voluntary cooperation between town boards and an in- regionalization when appropriate; and formed citizenry. West Stockbridge developing better and more flexible planning tools - e.g., zoning, etc. Dover The major goal that the town of Leicester faces is the unity of the people for the good of To see that the desired future of Watertown is the town as a whole. The separate Sewer and realized, we must force the developer to think Water Districts, separate Postal Zip Codes of the good of the community not as an after- and even a Fire Company located in each thought, but as the most important factor in district stop this goal from being a reality. his plan. Watertown Leicester 22 Community Character Chapter 3 Community Character The It was noted that character had to be defined Perhaps the most signi before a meaningful response could be given Brookfield's growth in t Community and to this answer. If character is open rural com- has been the Positive Ck munity then the factor has changed some its inhabitants exhibit a Growth from recent development. The character of and strengths. The char the community has definitely been improved continually emphasizec As mentioned previously the Growth Policy because the recent development has made compromise when nece Act allowed an opportunity for communities to the community more accessible to surround- mon goal. tell state government about their growth priori- ing areas. Mansfield ties. An overall theme of "enhancing community There was debate on character" emerged as the cities and towns be- In general, we believe Plainfield partakes of neighborhood system or his strong senti- gon to take that opportunity T the economic ups and downs of the district system was the ment was expressed repeatedly by all types of immediate and larger regions of which we City of Chicopee. The cities and towns. Our older urban centers often are a part. We may, however, be able to issues such as having to pointed with pride to the vitality of their ethnic weather the downs better: many home social and cultural a neighborhoods. Suburban towns noted a freezers and cellars are packed with locally serving a good distrib '@pecial feeling" of community identity or ex- grown produce and meat; many residents groups throughout the pressed confidence in their local governments. never were"hooked" on the conspicuous con- centration of any one t Rural communities identified quality of life and sumption, throw-away economy of the nation type of activity. lifestyles as important priorities. Small towns as a whole. Members of our committee re- cherish their "town atmosphere. " Coastal com- member the experience of friends who lived munities noted deep historical traditions as Val- in the cities during the Depression - people A less tangible, but very uable assets. Each community repeatedly residents is the loss of emphasized its own uniqueness as an asset that really were cold and hungry; others on the mosphere" that was he should be preserved and maintained. In order committee remember Plainfield then - years ago. to plan for orderly growth and development there was almost no money, but there was and thus to enhance "community character, " plenty of food, and houses were warmed by Pride in the community Local Growth Policy Committees have most wood. The question, in Plainfield's past, has looked as an important often cited local zoning as a key land manage- been: what do we really need? The answer, ment too] available to loco] governments. usually, has been: if one needs it, one puts it goal of visual improven The tradition of a strong local government together with what one has at hand. as public recognition co Plainfield re-emergence of develo and vigorous '@home rule" in Massachusetts has the visual aspect of thei long been established. But the vigor with which functional aspect. communities Wew the protection of these powers has been underscored through this process. In this chapter we have included local perceptions and priam@es concerning communitypride and character, their assets and 1jabiliti es, zonin g, an d h om e rule The environmental quality of the town and Cambridge has N the region have been high, and each wave of in the country. Thi comers has been attracted by the cosmopolitan peo new pastoral beauty, the low price of land and the is one of the dense low taxes and has resisted the advent of the a high percentag groups that followed. makes a sense of Charlton tain, it brings a sin In large measure the town's remoteness, rugged topography, and difficult access are West Brookfield h 7 _J@ the very essence of its continuing appeal. The eral feeling by the majority of residents is tra.ctive Common gen t for most of poin -,M @7 to leave it as it is, and to resist invasion by activities which ft outsiders" who think of growth only in terms concerts, antique of concrete and steel. Lk NewMarlborough formal and inforin Granville has not participated in the pro- mon is surrounded grams of the "Commonwealth's Special Com- Pelham citizens want to maintain the char- maintained and mission on the Effects of Growth Patterns on acter of their town - its rural atmosphere, Century homes w the Quality of Life in the Commonwealth" healthful environment, beautiful country- cluded in an Histc because of the unique patterns of land owner- side, and cooperation among its citizens. At The sense of hist ship in our community and the environmental the same time, they look forward to limited science of the pe considerations that accompany them. growth within the framework of the afore- sites involve me Gran ville mentioned goals. While recognizing its re- wealth's early beg sponsibility to cooperate with its neighbors There is evidence of more than average in- and the authority of the State, the town of Pel- Holliston has cha terest and pride on the part of a majority of ham values its independence and identity. tural town with bl Falmouth residents, both in their town and in Pelham collar middle cl their particular village or ea. Individually The educational and collectively, people in!1rhe main work to The rural atmosphere and way of life in West churches have b maintain what makes their property, their Tisbury must be maintained; the open fields more social organ and woodlands must be preserved . The street, their town attractive, often at con- on the community siderable cost, in time and money, to them- public, social Value of open, unused land is haschanged. selves. Falmouth great and mustbe protected. West Tishury 24 Community Character There has been a change in the easy, natural There is a major problem in this city to main- Middleton is unique in i relationship with the heritage which so richly tain and protect a sense of community on a tural character and in surrounds Concord. Under the encroachment small town basis; shared values, personal in- people. It is often of growth and development and of progress timacy, high commitment to the very sort of Englanders, as opposed which combine to threaten this heritage, we social situation upon which the country was country, are cold and have organized to formally preserve this based. Westfield that our people are war heritage by "establishing" historic sites, garious - perhaps an a paving accompanying parking areas, install- Conservation of the built environment, most and open green spaces ing brass plaques and reproducing former particularly those buildings, sites, and areas in concrete jungles. We curios. Much that was enjoyed in quiet casual which are important to its political, worked diligently to att respect is now being set apart for official reg- economic, social , cultural or architectural rural character and whe ulated observance. Concord history, is an important goal for Boston.... located within the popu Perhaps most important is that in conserving Shore, this can be can Merrimac looks back with pride upon a heri- buildings and historic areas we are con- -complishment. We, its ci tage of craftsmanship, when commerce and serving much of the character and flavor that for our children in a rural life coexisted with a prosperous focus on make Boston Boston. In today's world of ever- growing faster than its a the manufacture of horse-drawn carriages. increasing interchangeability, a city with Merrimac character has a valuable asset both in We have a variety of n Carlisle has more than doubled its popula- financial and social terms. The new Quincy velopment in Newbury; tion since 1960, yet in general the rural, Market is an excellent example of financial and distance from Bost small-town character of the town has been return to the State for historic preservation. has basically continuec maintained. As mentioned previously, in Much of Boston's character comes from its over three centuries. time, given existing zoning, there is the well-designed and expertly crafted older become aware of what I danger of losing this "ruralness" and buildings, its winding narrow streets, its controlled residential, becoming simply a nice subdivision. More re- beautiful open spaces and parks, and the dustrial development t cent zoning (floodplains and wetlands) will inter- relationships of these in our downtown setting. The characte prevent overdevelopment. in many areas of and neighborhoods. These are our irreplace- change drastically and the town which should not be developed for able heritage which we are determined to short time. For this reas both environmental and aesthetic reasons. protect and enhance. Boston of the people here pref Carlisle zoning has prevented urban "blight" growth to preserve ou or "sprawl" along its main roads. Until re- Middleborough lacks unity and pride. The acter. cently, this along with subdivision planning streets are a mess with litter, and local crime has been the crux of the town's zoning is just about out of control. Nobody "seems to policies. car,,sie give a damn" about anybody except them- selves and it seems that some of our citizens don't even go that far. Middleborough Assets and Liabilities Whether it is particular or peculiar to Salem, The town will con this city of only 7.99 miles and about 40,000 issues which have people, because of its diverse mix of popula- in the attempt to c tion and attendant mix of goals, problems for the town's futt and solutions, is in a state of "becoming" or opinion that Linc NX striving" rather than "being" or "finally green areas and achieving," which accounts for its assets and these linked to Lin liabilities. Salern the tangible and i town should contin One of the town's assets is: The willingness to continue to serve be small. Cuminington tural resource for G The listed assets at The liabilities have, in fact, helped to pre- life in our comm serve the assets of New Braintree. assets have contr Like other Cape towns our assets also tend to NewBraintree educational and c create our liabilities. Our environment Special attention attracts persons who desire to remain, but it Rather than list separate assets and liabili- ability of land for also attracts visitors who sustain the ties, we are listing six significant assets and, water harbor whic economy. Together the tourist and the "new as liabilities, we will present the negative for economic grow citizen," have caused great stresses to be' aspects of each of these. The attempt is to ty of oil and gas pr applied to our natural environmental, social show that all that glistens is not gold. Bank and the Ba and commercial resources, endangering the NorthAndover Local property ta attributes which are the backbone of the been created by t economy. Proi?incetown Open woodland is an asset but taxwise it has acting laws, but i become a liability. Landowners who preserve to fund implemen Franklin is the largest town in area in the Nor- open land for hunting; fishing and develop- State should ab folk County. This fact confronts the town with ment of wildlife should not be penalized thru education enabli several dichotomous situations. Although taxation for such land. Town taxation should vide equality in this vast land area can be a valuable re- not be levied the same as Boston, industrial property owners source, it can also cause the town many cities or exclusive above average income through property t serious problems. Franklin areas. CLarlemont Assets: location on the coast and abundance As an inner suburban community, our assets of rivers, marshes and beaches. Liabilities and liabilities are similar to other like com- are obvious and not unique. Marshfield munities. However, the quality of govern- ment is considered a distinct asset. Arlington 26 Assets and Liabilities Our assets became liabilities because they Assets: Cohesive comm attract further development. The impact of ment, visual amenities, growth has meant higher taxes, less open high quality environme space, change of community "character" air, and agricultural la from rural to more suburban. Stow ties: Lack of broad tax b people, state interferen What we do not provide in the way of services agement. and location appears to be what has drawn many here. We consider our "lacks" to be an The greatest asset av asset to our quality of life and essential to the munity is the degree of town's character. A change would attempt to The Committee and cit make Plympton "all things for all people" and development of this sta would, most likely, destroy it. Plympton degree of public involv will continue to be the Our community is primarily an upper-middle mining force and c class residential area with attendant social Liability: "Honky-Tonk" image: Amusements borough's future growth problems. High degree of volunteer partici- area in conjunction with MDC beach and too pation in local government and retention of many bars and lounges in relation to size of Our assets as a commu small town characteristics based upon three town and needs of local population. Hull follows: good people, c centuries of historical evolution have been 'Clean environment, low assets to the community, but there has been a The historical, archaelogical, architectural, friendly atmosphere. lack of professional help available to local and cultural heritage of Great Barrington is boards. Medfield among its most important environmental One of the community assets. Because the rapid social and eco- nomic liabilities inhere Rockport is truly unique - distinct from the nomic development of contemporary society countless other communities that surround threatens to destroy the remaining vestiges of the Commonwealth of M Boston. Our prime asset is our character. this heritage, it is strongly recommended that 750,000 people visit the Town each year, the town in the public interest, engage in a k- comprehensive program of historic preserva- Sherborn's desire to mai which is testimony to the uniqueness of Roc tion. vironmental character n port. Our very success threatens our prime GrectBarrington this is what makes Sherb asset, however. The overwhelming trend toward shops which cater to tourists at the ex- Items which might have tended to pense of Town residents, artist and artisans discourage growth were identified as a Hubbardston's assets should be stopped or at least discouraged. shortage of local jobs, the limited capacity of thought of in relation to Rockport the immediately local highway network, and small, rural New Englan the absence of cultural opportunities. Spencer Zoning We must give consideration to people of all After being inund economic levels in our future zoning regula- prohibited (throu tions. It is apparent that excessive zoning in- any further use of I flicts a hardship on the less affluent members borough.... With of our community, yet development continues is the only one (wi for those who can afford the price. Hancock have apartment than 50% of all r There is a growing awareness of the need for town has refused t Flood Plain Zoning, wetlands protection, ap- apartments, bet plication of the Scenic Mountains Act, con- constructed (750 structed (another servation easements, cluster zoning, and have a higher r planned unit development zoning, along with other benefits now possible under the homes than other t new zoning act. expect to see son Richmond apartment buildi also feel the over Policy to influence commerce and employ- neighboring com ment development would largely be applied creasing job opp to zoning. Our zoning is fairly tight, yet we Devens) will lowe have seen there has been development. In ments. that light, we would not loosen our zoning and might recommend a slight tightening. Wellesley The Committee ha of the town prese The idea of using zoning to solve local prob- We are over-regulated at all levels of govern- far from attractive lems and to capitalize on opportunities was ment, and probably not the least bad effect of ample, being loca discussed with the opinion expressed that all of this regulation, is the cost of enforce- impervious soil, u zoning was not feasible for this town. Florido ment . Traditional zoning has outlawed many thus Creating unn uses, which because of technological innova- tion, are no longer undesirable. When a way The subdivision rules and regulations have is found to eliminate the noise or odor, what exerted little control on the type of develop- logic is there to the continued ban of the use? ment in the town. They have, however, There is an alternative to regulating land use. insured a uniformly high quality of sub- The alternative is simple and it is just. Regu- division development where it has occurred. late the effect of the use rather than the use it- Acton self. This is sometimes called "performance" or "impact" zoning. Westford 28 Zoning The Town must maintain strong local controls Fifty Years ago, in 1926, the present zoning Experience tells us that to keep the growth rate at a manageable ordinances were enacted by the City of are not as responsive to t level. By following existing planning and Everett. Since then, Everett has become a tations of the citizens a zoning the Town should meet most of its needs fully developed City with changes and prob- Norwell, business pays without creating any regional problems. The lems. We are of the opinion that many of these the total tax bill each only exceptions would be regional considera- zoning ordinances and building zoning re- residents carry this town tions for solid waste disposal and schools. strictions are antiquated and some revision proper consideration a Sherborn must be made. Everett matter hearing. Recentl residents appeared at Through stringent zoning regulations, the Warren does not favor land use regulation... Appeals hearing to regh Town could restrict residential and industrial A minimum zoning by-law was passed pro' a proposed business development, everyone in town appears to viding some protection for homeowners. allowing the expansior want orderly development, and the imple- Warren don't think that the wil mentation of a Master Plan and Zoning should be disregarded appears to be the solution. Ecist Brookfield Issue: Above and beyond Avon's attempt to would like to see the Zon determine the nature of its future growth is become an elected bod I by precinct would be n The concensus of the Committee is that the more practical problem of whetherAvon thoughts and intentio growth of the planned-unit-development can properly influence the shape of its future groups. When large variety should be discouraged. That type of growth at all. Comment: Despite a phalanx of appear at a hearing to land use would be out of keeping with the land use controls embodied in the zoning by- site plan, variance req aesthetic and historic character of Hingham. law, the subdivision regulations, wetlands more attention would be In addition, there is great skepticism about administration, building code, etc., there are that have to live next to t the fiscal implications. All zoning and con- numerous factors that hinder local land use servation regulations should be enforced to administration. Regional influences, such as further this objective. employment and shopping facilities and The rate of growth in th Hingham major transportation investments, exert a possibly be at a slower tremendous influence on local land use. The the areas of residential Yes, our community's zoning has been rela- large number of local regulatory agencies, better control in terms tively successful in avoiding high density sometimes working at cross purposes, in subdivision control. The housing, and lessening sewerage problems. Avon also results in complex land use admin- future of the Town of M Otis istration. Over-reliance on the zoning local responsibility that ordinance also does not enable Avon to in- of the Town Meeting. If a fluence the timing and staging of develop- Meeting form of governrr ment. Controlling land use in Avon should be the whole trend toward characterized by an attempt to guide de- within the community co velopment rather than merely to respond to it. Avon Home Rule Pepperell may therefore have been given, Regional and statewide solutions, regula- The Interstate h through no action on its part, a second oppor- tions, and laws are not a substitute for local mixed impact up tunity to formulate a much better local policy government responsiveness to a community's bility on a state-o within which to attempt to attain its desired needs and desires, and ... to have healthy persement of in future. This, as opposed to the future that was and meaningful communities, they must have commercial grow being rapidly forced upon it by the essential- their full measure of autonomy and self-de- aided corridor im ly irresistible forces for development result- termination with a minimum of externally ligible as has mas ing from its many community assets inherent imposed interference. Windsor in its rural character. The time is short to formulate a strong growth policy, and de- Four large shoppi cisive actions to control land use will require The question of Home Rule vs. state mandate the last 15 years, special efforts by the townspeople. is interesting to note that there is no mall, changing t Pepperell unanimity. A compromise that appeared to commercial est have some merit would be a limited control The commercial We do not want the neighborhood concept from the state level subject to an override at the community bL destroyed; we want housing programs that, if the local level perhaps with that same two possible, will rehabilitate, restore, and thirds majority (needed for zoning by-law strengthen neighborhoods and reinforce the amendments). Sheffield Newburyport ha feeling of "community." We are mindful, and massive cost however, of the need for subsidized housing We used a restoration of the concept of Home shopping center c for the poor, working, lower-middle class, Rule in state government, coupled with a and even the middle class people who are priced out of the housing market. respect for - and trust in - Town Meeting Downtown South Chelsea and localized, representative government to serve as a viable alternative to the ill-advised loss of business Participation in Ashfield's civic affairs by prospect of any centralized "regional" centers. Continue those new to the community has' increased, bureaucracy. will add to this los and town meetings are invariably well- Dedham velopment in attended and very active. There is a strong without an equal desire by all segments of the community to be Local communities must commit themselves take the Southbr a part of something small in size where each to long-range planning including methods to pay taxes and sho individual counts. Conversely, there is active achieve the long-range goals. The state and growing hostility toward St 'ate and Na- might help through an offering of funds to There has been tional Government interference in local defer costs of technical assistance (such as velopment in th affairs, and this open resentment, is reflected planning consultants) in a voluntary program years. Commerci in what the people want for Ashfield in the for local community planning. the form of spraw future. Ashfield Holland 30 Home-Rule The values of home rule have been whittled The state taxes us and ta away as more and more public and private community, establishes r services and activities have shifted to OF usually more appropria regional centers or to larger market centers and then dictates under outside Hawley. This deficiency has become the town can get some more severe as the population has shown This policy often works signs of. expanding in the 1970's. There is a New Salem. demand for greater home rule and less inter- ference from outside - while at the same State interference may re time there is continued support for effective al damage and/or econo regional methods of dealing with larger 2 overruling local growth problems. Hawley major mandatory progr provide adequate fundin This is the first time 351 towns have been The locations of a major asked what they want! We might be com- Whatever the view held by the committee or may affect adversely p mitting fiscal suicide. We question use of by members thereof in reference to the ques- cause deterioration. 0 monies returned to towns with stipulations by tionnaire, as I read the document I see it as a changes are anticipated State as to how returns are to be used. It form of self-evaluation - an attempt to have God, such as an earthq makes it difficult to give property taxpayers each community look sharply at itself, to discovery of oil deposits relief. We are a town, act as a town - live as identify what it is, and further to identify the Forest. a town - and we'll die as a town. We would causative factors involved. Therefore ob- like to ask the General Court, or be asked jective evaluation is essential. I feel that We do not want nor ne what we would like and appreciate. We, many items, the findings (or the statements) regional or state planni speaking as a town, prefer to govern our- of the Committee have been less than objec- how to plan for the growt selves, control our own growth, protect our tive, and that the evaluation has become a assets, and, generally, provide for our own grinding stone for the committee's philo- and will do all planning n welfare. If we could assist other towns, then sophical axe of home rule.-A more objective the question of how and why would be de- appraisal, fr1edofphilosophic. considerations, We favor less control by cided by us. The town is strangled by State would seem to be in order. like to see planning an regulations, policies-, etc. which I are Alshbumham more at the local level re mandated rather than suggested. state's responsibility to Halifax The needs and, interest of the smaller com- as a whole must at times Wunities should be- given more seri ous would favor regional apr. att ention. Westfield approaches are not adeq last resort, would we favo The Committee believes that recent trends is 1 in Th,e,:6.it.iz"ens.ofH@citfieldw''htonia'htai con- The major attitu have been toward increased regulation, by tinu6c!'well-balanced@controlled growth if left desire of the com outside bureaucrats which limits local gov- und &r local- supervision. Existing, 'state'laws rural residential ernment -and self-deterriiination. The result si c In 0 i have a , gnifi anti pact on, the _c. mmun ty, growth through has been the creation, of extensive, multi- regi n'@fi8 Commonwealth. Laws are all too home rule. Wenha 10 layer government with duplication of effort restrictive and -aep rive us of local control. Re- region in its maint and function. A policy to-reverse this trend is turn to "Home Rule." a barrier to the a prerequisite" to developing responsible Hatfield gionalization is to local decision-making. that more layers Westhampton The people,of West Newbury would prefer to counterproductiv We feel that the state little by little is taking handle.matters of.growth and future develop- services or mutua important decisions out of the hands of local ment on their own initiative, through the local initiative for governments. The theor Iy of Home Rule is democratic process of town meetings and if affected comm becoming more- of a vague ideal than & goal ballots rather than be subjected to legislation quish some degre to be achieved. With such a prospect-looming promoted by persons located geographically economy or effi in the near future it remains the duty of all distant, not fully understanding or 6p- benefits. towns to band toget 'her in an effort to stop this, preciating the problems of a sniall com- threatening trend. Oxford Munity. WestNewbury@ Correction or easi sentially a local pr All of the above haVE a wide range of possi- The alienated rights ofs'eilf determination will cessfully achiev bilities. What does occur will depend on the influence future growth in this town' and the' brother" in Bosto degree of local:con'trol the town is allowed by state. If current trends in governmei.it ,con- matter how well the state and federal governm Ie.nts to retain. tinue, the only local control will..be that re- frugal we are, ho The less control we have, t' quired to raise taxes to support liberal pro- town for growth in expect to see unwel he faster we can grams sponsored at the state a .n-d federa -I it does little Ior no come, uncontrolled growth and the rapid erosion of the com- level. Groveland are, mandated wi munity's character. from the state or fe Plympton The positive public attitude toward local growth is an optimi Istic indic',ation. Th6@.com- The quality of life mittee implies, however, thdt'more.. gen eral are collected, dire public participation is necessary for'th6 stim- to! satisfy social. p form of governme ulation of local growth. In short, more direct, town meeting -sho involvement by the l0cal'public. A dam s panded within'the direct representa desired by the peo 32 Jobs Chapter 4 Jobs The The Town is dependent upon the continued Industry has added to t availability of continued high-paying profes- town by building attra Economy and TaxeS sional jobs in the core of the Boston metro- planned sites with appro politan region. Those jobs in turn are and such development h In developing and articulating a growth policy dependent upon both the national economy cant disruption of nat for their communities, citizens and local Officials and the New England and Northeast share of systems. By broadening first had to come to grips with how they defined that economy. Brookline viding job opportuniti "growth. " Not surprisingly, it is apparent from relatively few municipal the local statements that to many communities By revitalizing the deteriorated and obsolete growth to date has contr growth means, at least in part, economic industrial/commercial areas, the City can assets. One negative asp growth. (In this sense, "growth" might mean become more self-sufficient in providing the ment, though, as in oth better, rather than more.) opportunity for its residents to work within increased traffic at cert The excerpts included here give an indico- the community in which they live. Town. Additional indu tion of the level of concern over economic Newton may add to this prc issues in the state. For many communities, the stimulating additional r top priority consideration to be addressed is to It is interesting to note that of the 24,341 jobs mercial development. create (or retain) well-paying jobs, and to available in Framingham about 54% are stabilize the unemployment rate. Other local held by Town residents, and that of the committees cited the need to provide tax in- 28,013 residents who form part of the labor The town, however, can centives for businesses and to improve the over- force, 48% work in Framingham. This means businesses alone. Some all economic climate of the state. Many coin- that roughly half of Framingham's labor force hard goods or creative i works in Framingham, and that half the jobs will all end up just doin munities also addressed the revenue side of the in Framingham are filled by Framingham laundry and selling each economic issue, and called for alternatives to residents. the property tax as a means of alleviating the Framingham state's economic development problems. The Increased housing gro excerpts iha@cate that to many in Massachusetts Revere as a city has too many of the lower ponding industrial grc economic growth is the most crifical "growth" hierachicial service industries, e.g., gas adverse impact on job op issue of all. stations, strip joints; conversly they need a higher type of industry such as banks, hos- pitals or clinics, and offices. Revere The availability of jobs is Fitchburg. It can or With 1450 Hingham residents working with- adequately if jobs becoin in the town, our reputation as a "bedroom different types of industr community" for Boston is being changed, as more and more people opt to have offices Plainfield has never beer here and to find jobs locally rather than face opportunities. the commute to Boston. Hingham The successful establishment of industrial More jobs for our c parks by the City has increased business op- encouragement of portunities and jobs, and has added to this resently vacant p i4l, industrialized center in that Attleborough Wil formed industrial provides an impressive share of jobs to the and by having area communities. A recent survey by A.I.M. ]i responsible for vividly points Attleborough's leadership out. prospective purcl A revitalization of the railroad service could industrial space, i shift area development more toward the guidance and in Attleborough central line. rules and regulati Attleborough Danvers, and to The major impact of the lack of recent com- concerning the var mercial growth, development, and ch---. prospective purch has been the continuance of a lack of Job op- order to obtain th portunities within the Town. As farmi .ng has particular use. declined and the population increased The overall impact (of past growth, develop- through immigration, and as local commerce ment and change) in economic terms, has There are very f and industry has remained virtually un- been negative - loss of major industries, loss young people in changed (as if preferred by most Carlisle of blue collar jobs, etc. This trend, however, moving out and residents), the composition of the job force as has been countered by a determined effort on families with sch a whole has become increasingly dependent the part of the people to stay in North Adams attracted by a upon commerce and industry elsewhere in and keep it a good place to live. compared to Gree the region for their employment. This lack of NorthAdams the pleasant, rura employment opportunities in Carlisle, while there is a general of no consequence to the majority of the labor There is a problem in terms of the lack of eco- jobs and low wage force (most people move to Carlisle after they nomic opportunities for all levels of employ- able. The impact have secured a job), does pose a problem for ment, especially the young. It was noted that town's expenditur both the young and elderly in Town who Palmer has produced many natives trained town's income is n might seek or need part-time employment. for all walks of life, but there has been an Additionally, decisions not to increase the alarming exodus of these citizens. Palmer In a State where u area zoned for - business in a clearly defined ment rate consis area could result in the request for and Reading's future development as well as that average, City, St granting of variances eventually causing un- of our region as a whole have much the same more closely towa desirable "spot" zoning. Carlisle trends. That is, the employment picture is not access to emplo) particularly bright. Reading workers in the reg 34 Economic Development Economic Development Industrialization, rapid Or heavy, would, in Currently, the Leominster Industrial Devel- Since 1960, efforts of t the long run, destroy the very essence of the opment Commission is preparing to engage a Commission have succee community. The reason people choose to live nationally known and proven economic con- a 42-acre developmen in the town of Granby include: rural, quiet, sultant firm for the express purpose of con- Although less than succ attractive, open areas. Granby ducting a feasibility study and establishment new business to the to of a proper priority basis for industrial devel- businesses needing spaCE Lunenburg cannot look to industry to opment needs in this community. Develop- modern facilities to remai broaden its tax bases. ment problems will be identified and imple- tleborough has been Lunenburg mentation strategies outlined. Leominster holding on to its old firm., wealth as a whole. Brockton has several features which make it The recent growth is a result of the highway (or if developed, could make it) attractive to system as well as the availability of rail and We cannot depend enti new industry. Two hundred acres of in- airport, and availability of municipal and recreation for future dustrially-zoned land are available for de- facilities. The residential growth is not should be made to esta velopment, much of it land where factories occurring because of the industrial growth. light industry in town. I once stood or still stand boarded up or used The residential growth is occurring for the without affecting our ru as warehousing. Vacant space in sound old same reason as the industrial expansion. controls were maintained shoe factories is getting rare. Most of what Even if the town did not have the industrial remains are eyesores which should be torn expansion it would still be experiencing the down. Since private developers don't want to residential expansion. The residential Industrial development i take the initiative, it is up to the City to buy growth has put a larger demand on increase the tax base and dilapidated factory buildings, demolish expansion of municipal services than the tunities. them, and sell the cleared land for new de- industrial expansion. The industrial growth velopment; this is a program which would has provided the town with the tax base require state and federal economic and resources to supply the needed utility We anticipate gradual c urban renewal assistance. Brockton services to service the residential growth. and commercial growth The town has also made the long-range increase in tourism in the An increase in the tax base without a vast investment in its utility system, conservation, out the area. Without inc increase in service costs is seen as attainable and recreation programs. Money for these and industrial growth, by industrial growth. Warren is now rural in expanded systems came from the expanded rate will increase. We w character, yet provides many industrial tax base provided by the industrial develop- significant industrial positions; therefore, industry is not feared as ment. posed of a variety of smz it might be in some small towns. Warren Mansfield commercial business. Industry won't be attracted to town because there is no labor force in Wendell. Wendell Ec During the past 15 years, several new One citizen at the hearing expressed the The Commonweal industries have been added within the city of opinion that growth of the town should be enhancing and p Gardner, - with a mix of light to heavy planned, although it would seem that what position of Boston industry. Gardner he had in mind was that it should be con- U.S. cities as a pla trolled. In any event, it might be said that this ing policies and The new industrial growth in Hudson has person was expressing a concern of many activity between more than offset the loss of the older shoe, citizens that Shrewsbury has grown too fast in communities sh recent years and that it would be desirable Necessary econom machine tool, and agricultural industries for future growth to proceed at a slower pace. seaport expansio which'used to be the major employers in the Shrewsbury power plants, etc. area. A re-training period for some residents they can best serv was required to fill the new technical and The growth and development of Fall River in resulting negative clerical positions available!. Minimal costs the past 10 to 15 years has changed us into shared more equ with substantial benefits were realized and an industrial city rather than the mill town we require a commit less reliance on major employers resulted were. The more mature industries and financial support from a larger number of smaller firms. Most of institutions that have developed have surrounding cities the industrial growth has occurred within two provided more and better job opportunities small industrial parks. Hudson and improved the aesthetics and environ- mental character of the City. FaIlRiver The attraction of In 1963 and 1964, the Route 128 Industrial depend on lo Park was constructed. It includes the Route Our industrial growth has not created any incentives, the av 128 passenger station for Amtrak. There has si at appropriate been increased use of the Norwood airport gnificant local employment. Some of our services; in gen and there has been expansion of the natural and environmental resources have would be most eas electronics industry in this area. been damaged by our industrial growth. Our local cooperation. Westwood local and active conservationist groups are working diligently to protect that which What we need now is. . . more industry.... remains and are also purchasing amounts of Industry brings ir However, before opening the door to any land to be conserved. Sougus more jobs fo Industry which may desire to locate here, we Detrimental effec must evaluate the gains we might have We are a community based on larger, more gradation of nat versus expenses which may also occur. The expensive homes, while other towns get in- services to industr gains would be a help to our tax base and also dustry. We need some industry; in order to get more jobs hopefully for local residents. it we must furnish water, sewerage, and some Howeve r, the losses we may incur would be a form of tax incentive. One of the majo strain on our school system, Police and Fire Norfolk future growth is t Departments. development. Dudley ;36 The Economic Climate The Economic Climate The opinion expressed herein paints a rather However, the Committe uncertain picture, but it is based for the most cern with the curre part upon events in the "external" world - conditions and the I upon forces over which we as Westford policy by the State Ad citizens have little or no control. While it is long-range impact tha possible that the unfavorable business areas will have on Mar climate in Massachusetts may become oc- expand its economic b casionally mitigated by legislative action or accordance with a pla executive fiat, we believe it is unlikely that interventions in many Massachusetts will be able to significantly hampered the growth o improve its poor standing relative to that of and have had a definite neighboring New Hampshire. We therefore economy, particularly expect no industrial growth in Westford. expansion. Mansfield wi Westford a residential nature; h industrial and comme The Massachusetts Environmental Protection The state must do something about the balance development a Act (MEPA), requiring environmental impact current tax structure to attract new industries amenities which all g statements from utilities, eventually adds to and to encourage existing industries to demand. The Committ the costs, of utility users. Public hearings are expand within the Commonwealth. the State adopt a positi not well attended ' generally, but at least Southbridge economic expansion wh some attention is being paid to what the to all communities. utility companies are doing to the land. The The State should develop better business general attitude of the state EPA is one of climate for jobs and tax base, develop popu- criticism; alternative solutions are not pro- lation and resource conservation policies, There has been an abu vided. Environmental requirements can and help towns implement existing laws. scarcity of action de make the cost of doing business in the state North BrookfieJd problems faced by ou prohibitive; this is discouraging growth of There is little faith in the industry or. new industry. State laws have a definite impact on our our Region and conside HoPkinton town. Business and industry cannot get tax State Policy favors th Of additional importance, however, are state incentives, so we are losing out in business Boston and communities and regional decisions which will impact areas. oxford Bo@ylston's course in the next 20 years. The The L.G.P. C. opinion is t future, development of interstate highways, One need not be a Rhodes scholar nor a expansion of Provinceto e.g., 1-1:90, will make the entire Central mental giant to see that Massachusetts that such expansion Massachusetts region a logistic center for the definitely has its growth problems; all you direction of year-round distribution of products in New England. really have to do is read the newspapers and than the highly seas This, in turn, would attract transportation see that businesses are fleeing the Common- currently exists. and warehousing industries to the area. wealth daily. BoyJston L o weJJ "Taxachusetts" image creates a negative A@ Economic distres economic environment. A, which could seri Dennis %A iW L_: property values yv@ j-f. base within the We must be aware that many of our economic result from closi problems are beyond our immediate control. 'complex if the St State and federal programs and policies are partly to blame for the current economic and there is an ov situation. Most often mentioned in this regard defense spe'ndin a@e high taxes and great difficulty in obtain- would clearly. aff ing permits forcing business to leave the residential comm Metropolitan Are state. We should demand that the state and federal government cdordinate their a statewide and programs .to allow and encourage economic endeavor, clos development. Unfortunately, the political climate in the integrated with lo Plyrn o u th state of Massachusetts, which places a heavy burden on the private sector to support an By a skillful, balancing of conflicting land extensive array of public services, combined Mainly, future gro uses, we will work toward finding ways to with the natural economic disadvantages of result of confide resolve the 'roblems of providing a greater the region, has created a very difficult en- region. Unfortuna p tax base, retaining and improving environ- vironment for private industry in Massachu- ing from an identi mental quality and providing adequate setts. The increasing tax burden and that the state is " services. We need to find ways to strengthen declining economic base are mutually and laws. We hav the process, and to broaden its base so that destructive and lead to continued urban and environmental ac decisions made will really reflect community regional decay while people move to grow- wealth. On the desires, and so that intelligent reviews of pro- ing, more responsible sections of the country business investm posed projects can be conducted without for employment. They leave behind fewer with a high stanc creating expensive and time-consuming privately employed citizens to pay the bill for research, and hc delays for their proponents. Lenox higher government spIending creating none, and a large today's unbearable tax burdens. In all, the form of banks and Beyond this, the State should primarily be regional development . pattern will be a large skilled lab concerned with providing a good economic directly affected by the State's determination climate to prevent further deterioration of of fiscal and political, as well as moral, A community w business and jobs. Growth should Ibe directed responsibilities to itself and the working at the redevelopment of older urban areas people it serves. Acton through its polici the status quo wil where services and an employment base are Economic changes in this region will not ma- of negative grow available: Sharbarn terially affect taxes; but changes in the eco- sible decision al nomics of the Boston Metropolitan area will. community. Foxborough 38 Taxes Taxes Reevaluation will inevit ably produce the sale The committee feels that the changes so far The property tax systen and development of some of the large parcels have been absorbed without severe impact, restricts communities wi of 10 acres or more owned by, individuals. but that we are close to a critical point in Because of this, it may (Most of these 60 parcels are completely un- effects on fiscal resources - from the stand- time to time, over a spec developed or occupied by 1 or 2 houses.) The point of education and other services (roads) and benefits to be shar development of same will bring pressure on needed because of growth. In addition, a greater state financial s all Town services especially the school character which depends on open space and of state and local tax str system. There will be added pressure to sell visual quality is highly vulnerable. Pressure due. The property tax on the owners of homes bought many years on the tax base, which is severe, has been support local services ago whose taxes will rise abruptly with the caused, up to now, not by growth but by other limited to residential u change in assessment. Many of these people social programs. Whately community experienci are elderly. Their children have finished dential development. school and in many cases have moved out of We recommend a return to the town of a fixed the house. New owners will increase the statutory percentage of graduated income number of children in the school system. tax, based on taxpayer's residence. We also Property ownership is n Milton recommend state collection of property taxes of capacity to pay in to on industries, with redistribution to towns in cannot change the s) The state and federal governments have proportion to the impact/burdens involved, strongly that changes sh helped Carlisle finance its schools, conserva- for schools, services, etc. level and allocation of tion land acquisitions, road improvements , Horvard burden have an import and some fire, police, and public works extent and shape of fu equipment. However, although the impact of If the tax system were changed and perhaps community. this assistance is beneficial, it should be substituted with a graduated income tax, noted that this aid is simply town money Rowley would be able to attract more (raised through state or federal taxes) being industry. Yes, reliance on the returned to the town, and is not a windfall Rowley influenced growth and that residents are somehow not paying for. Such a proposed change Since state and federal taxes are inevitable on the property tax) in for such programs, Carlisle's continued par- provide a better chance ticipation in the programs is desired so that get started in the comm the town gets a "fair share" of its own money lessen the chances for f back. cultural lands. This shif Ca,rlisle reliance could definitel growth patterns. The threat of an increase in property valu@ The criteria for the distribution of state aid State fiscal policy a ation as a result of a contemplated property among the various municipalities ought to be is essential for futur improvement is often cited as a cause for not looked at; they probably need to be put on a should take the for making the improvement at all. The More rational basis so as to put the most able, graduated inc imposition of higher property taxes is one of money where there is the most need. Some of with provision for th the main causes for the substantial flight from us have heard horror stories of wealthy this revenue to th New Bedford to some less expensive suburbs. suburbs receiving school construction funds through a state reN Property' taxation can thus be cited as an on exactly the same basis as the worst slums some other modality indirect cause of sprawl and wasteful ex- in the state, and we can hardly believe it. If, penditures for sewers, water, drainage, however, the Dukakis Administration carries Boston's problem 1 roads, and sidewalks. Reliance on a tax out its promises to see that funds for such pur- Federal and Sta which does not respond favorably to poses as the purchase of open space are in- reserved for their o increases in wealth places cities and towns in creasingly channeled to urban areas, the sales taxes which r � fiscal bind - rising costs cannot be met by state should bear in mind that while we're not growth in the City e � sluggish tax; expensive items such as exactly hurting as Boston is, Maynard still with only the prop quality educational facilities cannot be. has many urban characteristics and in many similarly respond. . financedwithout exceptional increases in the respects has a greater need for assistance Boston generated tax rate. Furthermore, the property tax is the than truly suburban towns do. Maynard revenues, yet receiv most unfair tax in terms of the ability to pay. A more responsive, more equitable tax would of total state reven provide cities and towns with greater The state and federal governments must meet dropped to 4.2%. If revenues for such costly items as education, the needs of communities such as Dracut and the money it gener fire, police, capital investments, etc. By provide funds for the impact of growth, or the revenues, it would allowing cities to improve their services, it Teal estate tax will not he able to afford to property taxes at a cover services to attract business and in- ment's insensitivit would be a valuable means of increasing the A ustry. negatively affectin City's attractiveness as a place to live and U Dracut pecially Boston, has work. NewBedlord on City property ow A significant amount of revenue needs to be generated from some source other than land There is no inclin use. Possible taxes on second and third cars, which would rais pleasure horses, motor boats, skimobiles, soft Meeting; thus the i drinks, etc., could help ease the property tax costly buildings, 1 burden. facilities, and mu Leverett foreseen. 40 Taxes Growth in non-productive citizenry, such as People want more industry to broaden the tax older people paying lower taxes, welfare base. Jobs are not a major consideration in recipients, has negatively effected tax base, the desire for more industry. The concern is Southbridge taxes! Taxes! Stoughton Throughout our discussions, the burden of the We have been subjected to increasing tax property tax recurred as an immediate rates as have most other communities across problem. The Committee agreed that the the Commonwealth. The largest portion of property tax is most undesirable in its present the budget has been schools, with the great- form - that is, its tendency to weigh more est impact being the salaries of teachers and heavily on less affluent persons. The administrators. Committee further reflected the-diversity of Wilmington our community on the question of whether the total level of State services is too high. We do, The local property tax greatly affects growth however, continue to fear changes in the tax and development. Under the present system, system which we see as providing an capital-intense industries are burdened Taxes: With the national opportunity to increase overall State more; this has contributed to blight in many nomies suffering, the ide spending. older sections of the city. is unacceptable to all re Newton Fitchburg all issues, seems to rec tion. The present feeling Dependence on the property tax is the key The greater pressures on municipal services two things: 1) new gr factor in local land use and economic have caused the property tax rate to climb at town's need to raise mo development decisions. If the present system a rate that has reached the point of does not pay the full were changed, the private sector would make intolerance to some of our residents, Whether it is because of economic decisions to benefit Worcester and particularly those senior citizens who own Town, or lack of "exclusi would help the City to be competitive with large tracts of land. In order to pay their and its location, a Tr the suburbs which have lower tax rates. The taxes, they are selling this land, often times to spends more tax money State should be more aggressive in achieving developers, thus continuing the cycle of new growth demands than an equitable enforcement of assessments housing and further demands on municipal gives back to the town in through the Commonwealth. Worcester developers. Lakeville town pay or sho luld the nE The costs associated with increased Industrial and business growth has not population have exceeded the tax revenues helped the tax rate. Randolph obtained as a result of growth. Leominster Chapter 5 Housing Some We envision a time phased policy to develop The industrial gro more low and moderate income housing in but the housing gr Particular Concerns Needham. Five to ten years is not too long a not well-controlle period for the town to move with determina- population there It is important to note that the Office of State tion toward such goals as we propose. Consis- mand for services Planning has not attempted to structure the ex- tent with keeping as much decision making acquisition has 1. cerpts along any preconceived notions of what as possible at the local level, the town should space, but not qU the major topics would be. Rather, our strategy act voluntarily to attract low and moderate enough significan has been to let things fall where they may and to income housing. Through its municipal Our community h select the excerpts based on the concerns most agencies, particularly its Housing Authority, moderate housing often raised by communities. the town should give wholehearted support to than any other co The broad issue of housing is a topic of con- the building of low and moderate income It has been an out., cern included in this cho units by others and should encourage aggres- respect. pter Residential de- sive use of all available state and federal velopment patterns, housing supply and de- programs that provide resources to ac- mand, increasing housing costs and the housing complish these purposes. The town should en- Much of the apart market ore specific topics. Includedbere as well courage its realtor associations to seek might have been is what the cities and towns hove said about the affirmatively to attract minority renters and of some town offic issue of providing adequate housing for our purchasers in the town. and ill-considered citizens who need it - both elderly and low- lVeedham ing habits of the in corn e families. ments. Transportation is another overriding concern This committee recommends the policy of of many communities. Many growth policy providing low income family housing by Housing is curre statements noted that transportation investments using the scattered site concept rather than levels. There arE and improvements have had mixed impacts on constructing new housing complexes solely buildings which m growth and development opportunities within for low income families. This policy will moti- habilitation as m their communities. Others noted the need for vate landlords to improve properties builders believe t improved mass transit, railroad development, presently available to low income occupants rewritten with re and airport development as priorities for trans- by insuring them of an adequate income from town size and POP portation policy. their investment, and decrease the number of Another general local concern is the impact substandard and deteriorating houses within of commercial development, particularly the the town. Chelmsford growth of shopping centers and '@trip" develop- ments. Finally, the need for the preservation of agricultural land in the state was identified as a concern by Local Growth Policy Commjttees, from not only rural towns but also from more densely-pop ulated com in unities. 42 Housing Housing programs for low or moderate The nu 'ber of low ar income people should be affiliated with T families in Sudbury m monies to meet the additional school and statistics" would'indic facility needs that such additional'persons 5 many couple's living wit create without the benefit of any -real com- INS and old', in Town are not pensating tax revenue. The State Should look 11quota" @.. required by more seriously at the, scattered site housing becausethey are, not concept. We fear the incompatible project from the -Commonwea type development might be forced on us by their individual efforts State planners looking for short term solu- 11are not valid." We rej tions. ing. Federal-and/or Sta Narton should be designed to initiative, not collective As noted above, the most striking character- . . . . . . . .. . . . . . rate, we are confident t istic of recent residential development has will acco .mmodate mo been the increase of multi-family dwellings. groups. This will'be a 0#6 impact of this development is that since There is a growing, aging population toward alternative lifes Quincy' has been for many years a well de- problems of inflation and its effects for fixed tive sense of th;e term.) veloped City, new development and es- and retirement incomes are cause for con- pecially multi-family projects often must site cern. The lack of adequate numbers of dwell- on marginal lands or use lands from the small ing units suitable for older small families is a We recogni 'ze'the need number of vacant parcels which remain. major problem, with no solutions in sight. vided for low and mode QuincY High taxes and mortgage interest rates tend Weymouth has m.ade a to make home ownership beyond the reach of this area; we expect f The town should allow for a variety of housing younger families. This, with the trend of fewer munities to &likewisE types. Apartments such as townhouses children, point toward a further decrease in more "project" type c should be allowed in Methuen at a very low school population. The decrease in family low income or elderly. T density and only by special permit where size probably will offset any growth due to a for any gro 'up will not ( land use patterns dictate. possible increase in apartment units. utilizing to the fi.illest th Methuen Belmont vidual or provide for t necessary to insure th Available opportunities: There was much de- Whenever the bottom of the economic cycle sIociety and a harmon bate about the meaning of the concern was reached, the state has overreacted by in- committee fee*ls that relating to housing. Too much or too little of a creasing subsidized housing. Both contributi ons of our you given housing type can be a "concern" de- compounding existing economic problems. being used to their f ulle pending on whether a need is felt. Whately Lowell At present 81.4% of the housing units are It should be, point awner-occupied, a slight drop from 84.4% in very complete ci 1963.. We feel that the population should be wholesale, retail, predominantly owners rather than renters, of activities. Its job c mixed ages and with some mix of incomes, range of skills am incl"uding those who Work within Wellesley. supply does the sa The young and the elderly are having trouble sponsibility to pro affording to live here - a function of finances its less fortunate, rather than of age. Low-incorr@e families falling into that cz would need subsidy with the cost of homes, can serve a vari and more help with transportation, jobs, and large and small s social services. We now have 176 subsidized family and three units of housing, with 56 more in the near owner occupancy future. In addition, we subsidized 125 units apartment buildi in the MacArthur Road area by making gifts complexes of over of land just after World War II. From time to time there are proposals to build subsidized Property taxes, real estate values, and home units. If there is such pressure, we would like maintenance costs have increased sub- One suburban tov stantially. As a result, housing in certain itself bring about to be able to give rent or other subsidies for areas within the City has deteriorated. One town, howeN existing homes in scattered sites. Wellesley Families of low and moderate income are less urging the state t able to purchase homes and rent apartments process of which A 240 unit low and moderate income housing within the City because of the inflated values adopt fair and eq project is proposed for North Andover under caused by demand and general economic use guidelines wh Chapter 774. We are generally in favor of conditions. According to the annual census opportunities in a subsidized low and moderate income questionnaire, Newton residents perceive the the region. When t housing because it will provide much needed disappearance of privately owned open any one will be mi housing for our residents. We fear that this space as a serious problem. lines, each muni Ne wton housing development will attract people maintain and d from some of the more affluent surrounding character. towns. NorthAndover There is a strong fear that the State.or Federal government low-cost housing will be There is a question as to how to accept a fair imposed on the town, with its resulting tax share of diversified housing (expected base .ramifications. Lancaster growth of South Shore) in, alt areas (housing types, income, etc.). Norwell 44 Housing Housing problems within the City frequently The net deterioration of housing stock will re- have their origins in housing conditions and inforce undesirable out-migration trends. markets in surrounding communities. The Rents will continue to rise due to increased mix of housing opportunities for various demand by young singles and young child- income groups is an issue both among neigh- less couples. The uncertainty about the borhoods within the City and among quality and cost of the school system will con- communities within the metropolitan area. It tinue to discourage the in-migration and is this larger inter-jurisdictional question of maintenance of middle income and/or owner mixing and balance that requires longer occupant families. The continued failure of range perspective and broad consensus suburbs to respond to the needs of low and among higher levels of government because moderate income populations and their access to many public and private resistance to open housing and metropolitan opportunities in our society is linked to the educational programs will maintain the location of one's housing . . . While Boston pressure on already overburdened contains less than 25% of the total popula- Cambridge taxpayers struggling to preserve tion of the SMSA, we house over 40% of the a reasonable level and variety of social and area's poor and near-poor (i.e., households educational services. Corn-bridge with annual incomes less than $5,000) and over 75% of the area's non-white residents. Opening up housing choices further requires It is one thing to provide for the disregard for elimination of policies which art .ificially Town regulatory by-laws in order to encour- restrict those choices for many groups and age housing for the needy, and yet there individuals, such as overly restrictive zoning ought to be some assurance that such housing codes. Unreasonably high zoning standards will not refute all common sense regulations push the price of housing far beyond the nor create expensive maintenance problems One aspect of multi- reach of moderate and even middle income when such construction occurs on marginal, which will probably be families in some areas.... In sum, we feel that environmentally fragile or otherwise unsuit- future is that of low-c racial and economic integration in the region able locations. Concord elderly. There is certai cannot be accomplished until moderately housing as the ever-p priced or subsidized housing is located so as In the early 1960s many new homes being more and more forces to give low and moderate income households built were retirement homes and the popula- fixed incomes to givf a greater choice from which to choose. The tion was skewed in that direction. In the last residences and move objective is not to force families to live where three to five years homes have been bought housing. At present, they don't want to, but rather to facilitate and built by young families ... who live here available within the t mobility and freedom of choice, which means year round, even when the wage earner would be more appropr eliminating obstacles imposed by local gov- works 150 miles away. Alford housing for our elderly p ernment policies to opening up communities with a wide range of densities, housing types and prices. Boston Corn Commercial Development To compound the situation, shopping centers Large-scale shopp appeared after the construction of Westgate mercial growth I Mall in different areas of the city and con- occurring on Rou tinued to spread out into strip development growth has occurr because of few zoning controls. These poorly numbers and acre planned commercial areas, which lack land- dustrial developm scaping or any softening affects, brought Danvers adversely blight to once residential neighborhoods and areas and increasi open space. An over-abundance of gas acciden ts, noise, stations and fast food chains were built. Be- Downtown: The cause of over-building and hard economic 44 shopping centers times, several now stand vacant. A handful the downtown are already being torn down. Rrockton permanent establ and professional The impact of commercial development has lizing effect. not, in many respects, enhanced the character of the town. The effect of strip With the construct zoning of business along the town's major (jp shopping centers travel corridors has produced an unattrac- merchants have tive visual quality to these streets and result- Encourage -light industry to locate in Sand- shopping areas. I ed in increased traffic congestion and safety wich and to allow additional commercial de- clear intent to pro hazards from numerous curb cuts. The job op- velopment to serve the permanent com- shopping area due portunities created have been limited in munity and visitors. The existing reliance on and retaining tow number and skill required. Commercial de- tourism as the economic base of the town example is the re velopment has not significantly affected the should not be discouraged but community parking locations. natural resources of the town and it has actions should be to enlarge this with other proven to be a fiscal asset to the town, re- job and income activities. However, tourism The town has one quiring few municipal services. should not be neglected, and its growth swallowed by a lar EastLongmeadow should be encouraged. Sandwich resulted in a much There has been no basic impact of com- 3000). (This event mercial growth or change on the environ- The impact of commercial growth on avail- impact on the tax s ment, natural resources, or the character of able opportunities has been stable; on na- municipal and pe the town. Existing businesses have continued tural and environmental resources, it has dustrial properties the New England character of our town in the been detrimental; the character and identity hoped that an act areas most frequented by strangers. of the community changed from rural to semi- sion could effectiv Dolton urban; costs and benefits have been insig- mercial, industrial nificant. Greenfield 46 Commercial -Development The shopping area is important to the town There is definite lack of and to its image and feeling. Our policy is to within the area and the preserve it. We. want to keep the shopping is not cooperating toge areas attractive and usable and would the downtown area. S recommend more shade trees, more land- other communities hav scaping (especially around parking lots) and from the Mansfield com more accommodation to people who want to was felt that as the down sit or to park their bicycles. We would dis- it is a liability in that courage development of peripheral shopping present needs of the co areas which would detract from the central s noted that there is b wa business district. And, we would discourage ties, particularly in i any further mall-type shopping,plazas and improved, provided th urge improvement of the visual aspects of the willing to cooperate witf existing ones. Wellesley Commercial growth in the town has had a There was no real "downtown shopping Regional shopping ce mixed influence, but clearly more positive center." Growth was accelerated by express- towns have directly an@ the City Central Busine than negative. In addition to providing mer- way interchange. This brought a shopping Federal roads enable chandise and services within the town, the mall - primarily an auto oriented shopping reach larger tracts of a new businesses have created jobs, and the in- area. The mall perhaps helped contain the - ready suburban lots creased costs to the town from their operation commercial growth in one area instead of ex- pansion. have at least been offset by fiscal benefits to tensive strip spread. Hanover the town. On the negative side, there has been damage caused to natural resources, Shopping centers are abundant. In general, Being.in transition from and the construction of large shopping to a suburban, purely re %% residents regard the availability of shopping plazas" has been a significant factor in alter- centers as a plus, though not all of the centers we still cling to a rural a ing Milford's "small town" character and have been well located or successful. ment pattern. Resident-c giving the town an appearance indis- Acton commercial developm tinguishable from hundreds of thousands of necessity of going elsew similar communities throughout the country. Downtown: Commercial growth has oc- services. Miffard curred mainly in shopping centers on the city's periphery. This growth has led to a sig- nificant decline in the central business district. Holyoke Transportation Since this park-and-ride facility (i.e., Route 128 has had proposed on Rt. 2 and 495) would be a the town in that regional.f.acility, it would be very inequitable attraction and it ha to require the town in which it would be in the direction of located to assume fifty percent of any Metropolitan Bosto operating deficit, as it would have to do argued as being eit under present legislation. It is both appro- widening of a nurn priate and necessary that the State assume the town, we fe( one hundred percent of any deficit incurred detrimental. From by a service that would be utilized by many trees have be residents from a dozen or more towns and longer the commu cities. years ago. All that Groton complished is that RF, along our town at The prospective terminus of the MBTA line at paid a very high pri Route 128 is an issue with positive and negative. aspects. The benefits of having ready access to the Metropolitan Area are The interstate ha enormous. At the same time, it is necessary to access to bigger examine the potential negative aspects. With shopping areas. A completion of the terminus, the pressure on are shopping less the town for building sites for residential and commercial center. industrial development will increase tremendously. If the town is to avoid making The excellent transportation network within the same kinds of mistakes that occured in the The single most i the Town of Framingham has already been 1950's boom (i.e., the Great Road strip mouth's recent gr alluded to. On a regional level this network is development, etc.), careful planning must be change was the c a mixed blessing. On the one hand, it has un- done in advance in order to minimize the Route 195. Improv doubtedly contributed to making Framing- negative potential of the impact. terstate Standards ham the hub of the South Middlesex area and Bedforcl fluence.... Other S a town of major importance. On the other were later require hand, heavy volumes of commuter traffic, way-stimulated gro headed for Interchange 13 and then onto Route 128 and Boston, use the town as a conduit and contribute greatly to the already severe congestion caused by local traffic. Frominghmn 48 Transportation The development of Route 128 in particular In terms of transpqrtatio has drawn new business and industry into the in having an extensive tr region. Many of Carlisle's new residents are in place to support dow employees who have been hired by these dential neighborhoods firms and who find Carlisle an easy commute. system was a definite as The development of eastern Massachusetts 1@ FRANXIi Cook" the early 20th century FIDPLE M POO 0 entire multi-lane, limited access road system contributing to popula has reduced the automobile travel time be- neighborhoods and eco tween locations in the region. This has town. On the other hand permitted people to live further from their affluence, land use poli jobs while maintaining or even reducing their housing programs in thE commute time. Many people whopre seeking Upgrading of the Framingham Railroad Line combined with the nati a different life-style than that available in the and better bus service can be promoted by had a largely negative inner suburbs have found it possible to live in our MBTA Advisory Board representative. While highways improv a town like Carlisle due to the improvement Wellesley is being urged to provide owners and greatly incr in travel time. Those highways which have commuter bus service within the Town, to the downtown, they als most significantly affected Carlisle in this Riverside transit line and bus, and to our dispersal of the middle manner are: 1-93 and Routes 2, 3, and 128. railroad stations. We see the need for better city population to the st Carlisle and greatly improved rail service. Better use issue in relating transp of public transportation can help to relieve growth policy is to deter However, lack of a similar highway system our own traffic problems as well as make it and regional policy (Rt. 2) in a North-South orientation is expect- easier and more pleasant for us to visit Boston programs serve the ne ed to continue to inhibit economic growth and Framingham. We support the idea of Boston. In other words, arid development by restrictions on the flow intia-town transportation, ieducing the great business access and res of traffic (industrial) to primary markets in the dependence which most citizens have on the provided in the most South. Gardner car, or indeed, on several cars per family, venient, cost-effective, a Wellesley sound manner, while pro Improved transportation facilities - mass of the City's residential passenger, as well as freight - are needed. The neglect by the Federal and State govern- openspace. The Penn Central Railroad line running ment of the railroad has been short-sighted. through Warren has at least not been The destruction of the rail link between the scheduled for abandonment, but continuing mainland of Massachusetts and Woods Hole, The committee was shar action at state and federal levels is needed if the major port of the ferry service to Martha's transportation. Many be it is to benefit Warren or any of the small towns Vineyard and Nantucket, has turned portions would be paying a mou along its path. This would be preferable to of Woods Hole and Falmouth Village into mole-hill of service. large scale highway development. parking lots for people using the ferry Warren service. Falin o u th I!VMTINI@111@@%, Because of Brockton's unique geographical State and federal position in the State, it has the potential of specifically 1-195 h becoming the major trucking center of South- commercial and in eastern Massachusetts. This is presently hampered by an antiquated road system. Several state-numbered highways, which are The highway n also the major arterial streets of the city (and Attleborough area narrow ones at that), are funneled through federal monies inve Brockton's congested Downtown. Further- had a significant more, several sharp turns and jogs at inter- residential and ind sections slow travel on these routes even more. Competition between local and through traffic, combined with parking in commercial Increased housi and industrial areas, has created a traffic abandonment of r nightmare along these routes in all parts of led to more auto the city. roads. Also the tenc Hrockton in Massachusetts in in New Hampshire The regional transit system has had a traffic through tow beneficial impact on local mobility and has made access to the downtown easier. High- way investments have had a positive impact A North-South hi in making the City accessible to a larger increase the grow market area in the Northeast. In conjunction adversely effect th with this, inter and intra-city travel con- The improvements in Route 2 and the residents of this arE venience has improved, as have travel and building of Route 495 have'made travel to It would be very dif safety in neighborhoods which experienced and from our town much easier. This ease of control this factor a thru traffic. movement has attracted people who wanted damage done to th NewBedford to live in suburbs although they have to work in urban areas. Available roads have also To a limited degree, apartment construction helped to attract the Sheraton/Boxborough The state's inves; has changed the character of the town, but Motel. created great pro housing is not the basic factor in this respect Boxhorough borhoods. In addit - rather it is a response to the factor, namely sulted. The recent the University. Amharst is a positive trend. 50 Transportation Building local roads with state aid (Chapter Recommended improvements in transporta- The City's densety-pol 90) requires making them look like super- tion: There was a feeling that better mass can he attributed to a highways which do not fit the character of a transportation, particularly restoration of the past eight years, EVE rural town. Otherwise state transportation commuter rail service to the Boston area, and benefited from ar expenditures have had little effect on local would he of considerable advantage to help rate, which resulted in growth, development, or traveling to improve the quality of life by providing people to our commu convenience, since Route 202 was built years more convenient travel means to jobs, recrea- traffic by-passes, and o ago. tion, and cultural activities. Wareham and out and around Ever New Salem its former congestion Transporation systems which encourage provide rapid transport Route 91 has had the greatest impact of any private modes of movement and travel are a City to various parts change because of the greater accessibility mixed blessing. While perhaps enhancing makes Everett a top car to jobs and opportunities within the region. A the possibility of economic development, the efficient warehouse and lesser impact has been in making Whately contribution of the large numbers of private access ible for residence. Whately vehicles to pollution of all kinds may not be a The most significant in-, wise trade off. Mattopoisett federal funds have bee In reference to the regional highway network transportation. At this and nearby highway interchanges: Although The Mass. Pike has had a negative impact in difficult to discern the I in theory these two factors should encourage that it cut the town, damaged the view this construction. How growth, we feel that due to certain socio- wherever it crossed our streets and generated impact has fostered economic factors, the availability of a nearby noise pollution and some salting of streams. It related problems: parki shopping center, and nearby job oppor- provided some low-skill, low-paying jobs. Also, this service tunities, they have discouraged growth in Charlton development of apartni Lowell. increase in land value, Lowell Auburn's most recent history has been char- the three local substatio acterized by two distinct and unique periods Access and egress has been, or will be im- of growth. The first of these saw the town's proved with projects such as Routes 52, 1- population increase from 6,000 to 15,347 190, 1-290, and the Mass. Turnpike; however, between 1940 and 1965. This period of rapid these projects have also encouraged growth population growth has ended at least tempo- outside City limits at the expense of the City's rarily ... The second period of growth has oc- growth. cured in last decade with Auburn's location Worcester at the crossroads of several major highways, including the Massachusetts Turnpike, 1-290, Route 12 and 20, and the still to be com- pleted Route 52, spurring commercial growth and industrial growth. Auburn Agriculture There has been a steady decrease and an Newly constructed Route 49 was built Locally there has b almost abolition of agriculture within the through farmland, without provision being between growth an city. People have subdivided their farms made to cross the highway. This effectively hand, and availabl when one's parents have passed away. reduced the land available for farming. other. Agricultur Chicopee EostBrookfield dramatically incre the "selling" pressu Yes! To encourage the economic feasibility of The loss of farmland is an issue of great state- farming and to preserve agricultural land for wide concern. The State should consider The continuing de needs of future generations is a state concern. whatever means are necessary to prevent the dairy farms has Massachusetts should consider adopting loss of prime agricultural land to incompati- accompanied by I New Hampshire's tax plan for farming and ble development. Such means include the remaining farms other land uses designed t6-preserve open purchase or transfer of development rights, acreage that has al space and agricultural land. The so-called reform of property tax laws, a tax on property could change over "Connecticut Plan" should also be con- transfers, and state subsidization of local land outstrips the z sidered as it combines the best use of the acquisition of development rights. to pay for it. private and public sector. Under this plan the EostLongmeadow state buys the "development rights" of the land other than the agricultural use which Agriculture is the most important Any significant 1 can be sold or inherited. Essentially the state occupation, employing the largest number of would destroy the bonds the difference in the value of land as people and helping to maintain open space. New Braintree wh agricultural land and its "highest and best Essentially, the plan provides for the county cultural communit use." The owner can then sell the develop- to purchase the development rights from Town, to the St ment rights of his land for this difference in farmers who voluntarily enter the program; consumers would value. Marblehead when he sells his development rights to the in-state agricultur county, the farmer's land is committed to increase in costs Agricultural land lends "character" and agriculture in perpetuity, thereby preserving zoning or the peacefulness to a region. Allowing the farm- it. Alford development right land to become suburbia would deprive is the State's atti present and future generations of a priceless agricultural land. resource. It also provides valuable "aquifer" and "recharge" land for preserving water supplies. NewBedlord 52 Agriculture The preservation of agricultural land is a very Westport was a rural, agr serious problem, and there should be incen- of many large and smal tives to maintaining agricultural land and small ones have been for encouraging agricultural use of existing conditions that demand State land. The State should explore order to succeed. Much relieving tax burdens and development being utilized on a r pressures. operators of the large Sherhorn important that the town Another major problem is the retention of incentives to the few far open land and agricultural uses. Far and to continue and keep this away the most popular reason for people production. locating in Sudbury, according t6 a Planning Board questionnaire, is given as "open land" Farm land is under extre or "rural atmosphere." Some of us will argue velopers. Immediate ac about how "rural" we are. Sudbury government is necessar established a Conservation Commission is left. Tax relief for fa about fifteen years ago and has acquired wet- enhanced. Developme lands, woodlands and some farm land. This taxed rather than own has been done with the assistance of match- land-use plans and ing funds from the Commonwealth. These are requiring environmenta no longer available; this will limit the ability dealing with limiting of the Town to acquire additional open land. separate from land owne Agriculture, in the traditional family farm sense, has almost disappeared. Farmers have Yes this is a major concern subsidized sold their land, their only resource in some in tax breaks, discourage development of Agriculture is still an im cases, for housing and industrial lots. There farmland for residential, business, or ing enterprise in West I are a few family farms left and there is an industrial development. 13-raintree farmland can be attrib active greenhouse/agriculture business in offered for land for resi Town. There are some nursery stock farms in We believe Millis should be among the first in taxation, distant mark( Town and some rented agriculture land is the state to implement The Massachusetts large capital investm farmed by out-of-town interests. Sudbury Food and Agriculture Plan. general sense among th Millis is a difficult undertaki tunity to remain fina people value a health) but the concern for its ft widespread. The decline of agriculture has been severe Charlton's original growth base was and concern is locally expressed about pre- primarily agricultural, but this has changed serving what agriculture is left. No local solu- gradually to primarily rural-suburban with tions have been found. essentially one large industry and several Agawam smaller businesses. Charlton Fitchburg would support a system whereby the state purchases the development rights of In Princeton where only a small portion of the prime agriculture and open space lands. land is suited for agriculture, the allocation of Fitchburg suitable land to this use can provide economic gain as well as aesthetic benefit The decline in farming has continued to the without hindering residential development point where Westminster, once a farming to any significant degree. Efforts should be community, has only four full-time farms left. made to retain and expand farmlands Westminster wherever it is practicable to do so. Princeton The fact that 85% of the State's food supply is There is a difference of opinion among imported from other states is a cause for Sunderland residents whether to encourage concern. Economic development must be development up near the mountains or in the balanced by agricultural development. valley on the good farmland. Development Possible action might be to reward property has been arriving mostly in the farmland owners to develop their land potential, but where it is cheapest to build but more people discourage policy which encourages want to save the farmland and put the houses minimum use of land as a tax dodge. Worcester on the hills. Sunderland Hatfield is a sm acres of rich valley Anything to encourage agriculture would one of the principa be beneficial, provided that research and cultural land is a de development (in particular), soil conserva- tion, and pesticide control programs accom- pany it. Berkley 54 Communities and Their Neighbors Chapter 6 Communities and Their Neighbors Regionalism If the region experiences a return to develop- Due to a variety of f ment and industrial/commercial/residential difficulty of obtaining V Many of the issues related to growth spill over growth, then this community will definitely convenience of local r local boundaries. Environmental resources - feel the pressure for more rapid development maintained the pace of such as lakes, rivers, beaches, watersheds, to a suburban town with increased housing enced by some other cc floodplains - don't recognize municipal density. This, in turn, would lead to probable region. Based on a vari boundaries. Similarly, major development growth in commercial areas and a demand future growth and projects often have impacts that go beyond a for more town services. The growth of probably follow on a pr single community Clearly, what happens within industry and job opportunities might change the further cleveloprr a region affects communities, and what is the profile of the "typical" Topsfield home- munities in the region. happening in communities likewise will affect buyer. Topsfield of expansion from outl that regi.on. the region could force In Massachusetts, there is local government, We consider that Danvers had - or shares within Dover with resy state government, and something in-between.- several "areas of critical planning concerns." struction and potential '@egions. " Regional activities have been going Among these are the Ipswich River which is portation passing throu on for some time. Many focus on a specific presently a source of water supply for several past, Dover has part function - such as mass transit, water supply, communities and a recreational resource; our activities with other co or solid waste. Others, such as county govern- Danvers River is a major recreational facility solve our region-wide ment and regional planning agencies, offer shared with Salem, Beverly, and Peabody as the experience has bee more generalregional services. well as a potential edible shellfish area; and pation initiated by ar These regional issues and activities, and po- the Putnamville Reservoir, Wenham Swamp, communities is the mos tential future ones, are the focus of this Chapter. and Folly Hill Reservoirs of Salem and to such regional projec It shouldhe noted that the Commonwealth @ 13 Beverly. Danvers does include river banks, approach, experience regional agencies have prepared Regional estuaries, and salt water marshes that are all regionalized junior an Growth Policy Reports as part of this process. important to the continued propagation of highlights the forfeitur Those reports contain a more detailed analysis salt water fish species. We consider that our larly over costs which a of regional issues. This Chapter contains some local Conservation Commission and others alized activities. localperspectives on regionalism. are doing an adequate job of protecting these resources and would favor only such action as Differences in zoning would give technical advice, guidance, and sides of town boundar support to our local efforts. Dan vers difficult alternatives an to find ways of providir that satisfy both town always has, run downhil Cornmunities Because of the closeness of towns, any The development decision made by one of the communities region (within Ro does and will continue to have an impact on highway) also wil the others. For example, when North Brook- relating to zoning, field banned trailers, there was an increase of and industrial de trailers in adjoining towns. North Brookfield effect. If outlyin housing developm Waltham's non-residential activities provide income families, in salaries and wages for thousands of residents tical pressure co of communities near and far. With the need to accept more of su rely on the car, Waltham's residential streets land in outlying Z available at a 10WE S, are heavily impacted bJ wage earners industrial develop passing through. In spite of this Waltham has green belts, Newt( always cooperated in its regional responsi- cult to revitalize i bilities, whether on a broad scale as with the commercial areas MDC, MBTA, and MAPC or on a narrow scale In general, rejection of certain types of acting in concert c with Weston as regards sewer connections or industries and commercial developments by achieving its goa Newton as regards solid waste disposal. this Town has caused the applicants to move dential and econo Waltham next door! Employees of these companies number of availabl U.Mass has been and is a major economic often came to live in Sharon causing a type of stimulus to the area; it has also had many negative growth since the non-residential tax sociological effects. The idea of shared costs revenues do not come to this town, but the Over-development has not been widely discussed. There seems people and their families do. Sharon Framingham has c at present to be something of an "isolationist" The extent to which Dartmouth's fut with MDC sewera spirit afoot in the town, but in the long run ure problem of sewer Amherst would probably participate so long growth, development, and change is related treatment transce as adequate checks were provided. to development within the larger region or "regional" solut Amherst depends upon the degree of influence statewide concern Plymouth's rapid growth and development exerted by various government levels outside on that basis. has had a substantial impact on our of the town. Dartmouth is more vulnerable community. Carver's tax rate was much lower than most towns to "spillover effects" of de- here and has attracted much of Plymouth's velopment because of its large open areas, overflow population. good community services, highway access, Carver and location. Dartmouth's assets are highly visible because so many out-of-town residents are drawn to the town by the recrea- tional and educational facilities. Dartmouth 56 Communities, and Their Neighbors We envision and argue for a future Needham Although there is a strong feeling about that both preserves the present assets and municipal "home rule" in the area, we realize opens these assets to a limited proportion of that there are times when individual com- populations who cannot presently afford to munities cannot provide adequate service live in this town. We feel strongly that the because of problems keeping an economy of future we propose is not only right in the scale. Russell context of our Judeo-Christian heritage, but is also in the self-interest of the town as well, The Growth Policy Committee agreed that Needham and the metropolitan area as a regional development affects us only in a whole will be weakened and ultimately un- general way. We depend on regional well- done if the city of Boston is maintained as an being, its economic good health, though we enclave for the poor and minorities. We, therefore, urge this Growth Policy Committee are probably less affected than other area to view the best interests of Needham as communities. Lexington depends almost entirely on other communities for jobs, higher integrally bound up with the needs and education, utilities, transportation. The only requirements of the metropolitan area. The specific effect on Lexington due to regional Because of the great b overall goal should be a strong and unique development appears to be the increased outside sources, over 8( Needham contributing as a limited but traffic generated by neighboring from outside the city necessary unit to a vigorous, healthy metro- communities. attract up to 80,000 pe politan area. Needham Lexington dog (Wonderland) trac Due to the siting of an MDC facility in folk Downs) track are E Chicopee has been very dependent for neigh- Quincy, surrounding communities are de- erators. Traffic problem boring cities for cultural activities. Certain pendent upon the City for wastewater on a regional basis wi problems in the City of Chicopee have been treatment. In that the operation of this facility assistance. More funds caused .by poor environmental control on de- has had an effect upon the quality of water in to the city coffers from b velopments in neighboring communities. On Quincy Bay, the growth of these com- tracks. the whole however, the city growth policy munities, which has resulted in the increased committee felt that cities and towns share key use of this facility, has heightened the signifi- The problem of disposa problems and opportunities, and the solution cance of this relationship. able for a regional solut of problems for one area will help other com- Quincy ing area may look tow munities solve their problems. Chicopee outdoor recreation opp communities own su lands in Whately. Their to us. Regional Id-entity What is immediately needed is a strengthen- Wellesley is withi ing of the cooperative efforts of the six Island Regional -Plannin cities and towns towns. For the most part the necessary institu i tions, officials, and programs are already in Planning Council existence, at least in outline. What must other regions suc come first is a more widespread public the Metropolitan awareness of the issues and readiness to do Mass. Bay Transp something about them. This is particularly within the Char important in order to inspire public officials Wellesley has less to explore and resolve those problems which cities and towns are either common to all towns or can only be regions than with resolved in cooperation. West Tisbury neighbors: New Natick, and Westo The twenty cities and towns of Southern Essex County represent a deceiving economic The geographic picture to those who drive by the Myopia center (or heart) Hunt Club of Hamilton at 3:30 each Sunday makes it the cen during the summer months. In general, ex- ventures. We are cept for the immediate vicinity of Hamilton, without water to s the region is represented by the large decay- roads are not su ing urban city of Lynn at one end of the trucking; therefor region, and the economically depressed, fish- type of growth v _,Z ing dependent city of Gloucester at the growth and the opposite end. Such cities as Salem, Peabody, Multiple definitions (f or region) are farms. It is in this Lynn, Gloucester and Beverly (in the same necessary. Clearly, however, the concept of service not only it region of Hamilton, Wenham, Manchester) region" loses meaning when it becomes as an asset to the ur contain many minority and ethnic popula- large and diverse as the Metropolitan Area Brockton which E tions with evolutionary mobility and tance. Planning Council area. W blending capabilities. There is little ay,,3nc, regionalization existent, nor do state and county coordinating efforts produce cost- Sherborn is not comfortable in the larger met- effective results in the regional planning, ropolitan Boston Region and would prefer a management, and evaluation process. more well-defined region. Sherbarn Hamilton 58 Regional Identity The town is probably equally divided: that Sudbury does not look for larger government. The city has in the residents believe that the town offers every- We recommend that the Commonwealth do official regional endea thing they require for recreational and what it can to encourage diversity and and the MBTA, and i cultural activities, and that residents believe uniqueness in its cities and towns. This is, not supply and waste disp the town offers the barest minimum of such done with mish-mash master concepts and the city at the present activities. The latter group goes elsewhere or plans. When in doubt . . . leave us alone. support a spreadin goes without. Natick County governments everywhere seem to throughout the region function better than in Middlesex County. If transportation and was The town of North Attleborough has many county government is to work here, we need a which they feel Quinc valuable assets in terms of natural and new "Westsex" or "Southsex" County, con- tionate share. The city taining communities which "commune" major share of the resp physical resources, such as an abundant supply of excellent drinking wat6r. This com- about something. Area planning agencies, employment, shopping munity is in an enviable position to assist the while idealistically important, are not doing for the region. other communities which constitute along much for us or anyone else we see. The state with North Attleborough the Southeastern planning functions should all be streamlined The people of Chelmsfc Regional Planning and Economic Develop- and the regional planning functions of regions and bring ment District (SRPEDD). The Town should be performed by the new streamlined counties. County with its bureau able to review the needs of member SRPEDD This would put the planning functions "in conclude that arbitrary communities and consider the various oppor- harness" with functional operating levels for This is not paranoia, it is tunities for assisting this region. In the government services and get them out of their opinion of the Growth Policy Committee, separate and tenuous office "away from it voluntary participation is the ideal form of all." Sudbury The Committee urges m mutual cooperation among SRPEDD com- and functioning of the munities. Wilmington is a part of several regions de- One major problem is th North Attleboro u gh pending on its particular services. too dispersed. Further Wilmington in Plymouth is too far z Bolton does not do much at this point to in- population center of th fluence the region. Bolton is presently in the Somerville is a core city of the Boston metro- play a greater role in co MAPC, which seems pointless, since as the politan area. It is a bedroom community with example of unnecessar) town to the extreme west, we have little in 24,000 people working in Somerville and the county system is the common with the suburban towns to the East. Cambridge. It is a blue collar community to the Plymouth Hous Bolton with strong neighborhood identification. The question was also raise citizens are well organized and concerned exist at all in Massach with improving the quality of life and the en- abolished in other New vironment. Somerville wants to maintain its identity, yet participate fully in the wide spectrum of regional activities. Somerville Hingham continues to be included within the Present regional pl metropolitan area of Boston and MAPC. little use to towns Although the problems facing Hingham are imbursed project the classical problems facing the metropoli- arbitrarily define tan area ... open space and land-use man- couraged to band t agement ... and this has left Hingham a sub- ad hoc way as urban, even rural flavor. For that reason, the apparent. Just as st majority of residents feel closer akin to other allows towns to coc South Shore suburban towns other than effectively solves t metropolitan cities. Hingham is within Ply- so aid in planning mouth County, which supports the premise % like sewerage, sol that Hingham should be e.Ncluded from the should encourage metropolitan area. . This lends to a deter- designed to solve mination that a gathering of 12 to 18 towns in best framework of a regional council may be an optimum size Increasing shifts of authority and power from the single frame for managing growth ... and to maintain the boundary of a regi quality of life. municipal to regional and county govern- Hingham ments would significantly affect the patterns of future development in Dartmouth. With its The economic re The greatest concern of "problem" at the wealth of open space, shoreline, and high- greatly from the y moment is that the decisions made by the way access, the town is being increasingly The committee v federal government and by the state legis- pressured to accept the problems spilling out regional approach lature will interfere with or be dethmental to of the state's urban areas. Dartmouth take cognizance of South Hadley's goals and wishes. As regional and state approaches are taken to problems particular issue is in the future, it will be important to preserve Above all, as our colleagues in Acton rightly economic proble the integrity of the individual towns making recognize, Maynard is in many ways different regional basis, it up each region and of the state. from its mostly larger, wealthier, less indus- economic region. I SouthHadley trialized and less crowded neighbors. There- to be solved, it m fore we must emphasize that any "regional" waste region, d We are swept along and tied in with regions policy based solely on geography and watershed region, to the North (New Hampshire) and Lowell ingoring these differences might well prove and Fitchburg. If the present tax structure to be unfortunate. continues in New Hampshire, Northern Mass- Maynard Present arbitrary achusetts will continue to offer no incentive to county governmen industry. We are tied both negatively and compact regional positively depending upon which region is common interests referred to. Pepperefl the area as a whole 60 Resolving Common Problems Resolving Common Problems Regional Disposition: Most problems (water, There are issues which our community faces More regional or loca sewerage, public transportation, etc.) affect which are shared by some of our surrounding control. Strengthen reg all of the communities in the region. We have neighbors, for example, sewerage treatment, ernment. The county ha participated in some inter-community pro- solid waste disposal, water supply, coastal sive in solving problem grams. Regional issues would be considered zone management, oil exploration and fuel The county commissio only if Hanson is given an equal say in such recovery, the 200-mile fishing limit, state tax gestions for solutions ar discussions. Hanson policies, continuing population influx, agri- are often weakened or a culture, recreation. We have not defined lack of state money Issues such as water supply, sewerage treat- 1@regional" issues that the community would problems which could b ment, solid waste disposal, transportation like to see addressed regionally, with respon- regional basis - waste improvements, are issues which should be sibility shared by the various communities of tenance, transportatior shared by our surrounding neighbors. Our the region. We approve of the State, SRPEDD, safety. County gove community would support regional and Federal Government providing techni- strengthened and endeavors under the conditions that the cal data and assistance in -various issues. representative - perh regional project is efficiently and effectively However, the Town and the County should representative for eac managed while respecting the rights and have the power to make the laws. Local three commissioners re interests of the individual member towns. people should do the planning with the Currently we are participating in South support of the State Legislature. Regional Essex Sewerage, the MBTA, and we are con- action on a county basis among communities We need enabling legisl sidering participation in South Essex Solid with the approval of those communities and association and cooper Waste Disposal District. In addition we feel under their individual local controls is recom- afflicted) towns, to joir that such issues as economic development, mended for some responsibilities, costs, and basis, in constructive air quality, and public transportation should benefits. Westport mutual concern. This be addressed regionally. However, in the allowed to proceed thro area of housing, a division of opinion exists: Many issues could be resolved quickly and ef- use of the multiple resou ,on one side are those that feel we should be ficiently with more coordination between the the communities repres concerned about our own citizens first, while State and the town in respect to the needs be so constituted that a others feel that as a part of a larger metro- and desires of the town. As most issues in tion will allow the faire and responsibilities am politan area we have a responsibility with some manner have a regional impact, serious variant wealth, populati and for others. Marblehead consideration should be given to a better method to promote regional planning and to expedite plan implementation. Fox-borough We oppose blanket regio favor it on specific inter-( Resolvin Yarmouth would not support multi-com- It is obvious that there exists a need for some The committee wz munity regulations under any circumstances. centralization of local government any regionalizatic Yarmouth structures, however, Norton is certainly not administration, a alone in being cautious to regional solutions committee did su Georgetown has participated with caution in that ultimately diminish local autonomy as complimentary regional activities because of fear we have although some problem areas are best ministration and c little to gain and such participation may be resolved through regionalization. We wish to mittee wish to see costly and may mean a loss of autonomy. . , . point out that regional programs have the administration anc We are concerned about activities which potential to be abusive and insensitive to the more regional basi would effect watershed areas, flood plains, needs of small members of the regional com- beach areas, and the Merrimack River. munity. Norton Georgetown Since many comm Conway doesn't approve of solving local Region are exper Too much emphasis is creeping into regional problems on a regional level. For example, regional actions bodies tending toward implementation there has been a proposal to locate a regional ficial. rather than planning function for which they incinerator in Pittsfield which would require were designed. It has not been demonstrated towns to transport their waste a long distance This committee s that this trend is good or bad. It is, however, and at a high expense. The town is also upset shared informatio another area of responsibility being about a suggestion to regionalize elementary among neighbo absorbed by appointed bodies instead of schools. opposes abandon those elected to do so. If any combination Conway areas which can b should occur it should be on the basis of the body being elected. Fairhaven One regional issue that interests Leyden resi- dents is the proposed Franklin County Land Use Bill. Although it has been tabled for this There should not There are areas such as water supply and year, we support the proposed bill and if any neighboring solid waste disposal where Lynnfield could passed it may help to maintain our woodland direct affect on W and should benefit from regional solutions. and agricultural areas. hearing, an opport Unfortunately, none of the present regional Leyden the feasibility of z programs are viable options in their present the ability to rel stage of development to meet Lynnfield's re- We do not think Norwood should support any such as through t quirements now. Lynnfield regionalization unless voluntary, coopera- mental Protection tive, and equitable. Norwood is to be made. 62 Resolving Common Problems The city's future will depend to a great extent When it comes to, parti upon the regional delivery of services by boring towns, it is cle special authorities, commissions, etc. These problems faced today, s -vices are water er sewer, solid waste, and even more so in the the like. reached by common eff Worcester this is a necessary d AAEA Regionalization to meet these needs would immediate future. most certainly be considered especially in such areas as water supply, sewage disposal, If the growth proves gr solid waste disposal, and mass transporta- meet needs as they ari tion, However, at present, the town would advantage of any cha view such arrangements With initial facilities on a regional b skepticism and would be concerned about ie- taining control of its local problems and the Regional solutions to pr solutions to them; and the town would seek Sterling would consider regional actions to tic in situations that A assurances that it could extricate itself from help control the impacts of growth on a by itself. Auburn would regional pacts should it be demonstrated that limited basis, only after careful consideration a regional approach pr the benefits derived from such a regional of the benefits to be deyived and possible al- amount of local control i approach to a particular issue exceeded any ternatives. The community would likely aid benefits derived. The town realizes, however, in the improvement of regional economic op- that regional solutions to many of the portunities. Since Sterling's future depends We know that our subur problems facing us today are justified and upon the future of the greater region, which boTs have growth conc should be encouraged and promoted. in turn reflects the general economy of the welcome the opportuni Longmeadow state, this committee is concerned with the on those issues in part present distressing economic condition of the bined effort and/or coo The,areas of central planning concern most Commonwealth. The town generally prefers our advantages. significant to the community are Watershed to solve its own problems and multi-com- protection and the cleaning of our rivers and munity regulation would not be supported, lakes, We would support multi-community unless the measures guaranteed town We absolutely would n regulation with the condition that our citizens autonomy. action because regio would have the. right to accept or reject Sterling benefit stronger muni( decisions. advantage of the smal Lanesborough see a change in bureat tive management at the Resolvin Except in some expensive instances (waste In the above areas of study, Wakefield is a Little regional leg disposal) the town would probably prefer to strong viable community. Ve -feel our impact on Southbri %,go it alone" rather than to give up more residents have not received the full benefits transportation, Home Rule to a regional government, if it is at of regional services due to overlapping of improved access r all like our present county government. regions, duplication of services, and poor the town would sup WestBoylston regional structures established, without com- the participating c munity input or uniformity. We strongly urge If new political entities are required, they changes in this area if the growth of these should be composed of members both elected services on a composite basis will promote We would suppor and appointed regionwide and locally. In no positive growth in our community. Wokefield munity regulation way should any existing regional planning wetlands, Richmon agency be allowed to impiement develop- Two areas of concern to Sherborn and other areas, forests, mou ment plans or engage in resource man- towns are the Charles River and the agri- Assurance against agement. NewBedford cultural land at the Medfield State Hospital. he a good place to Sherborn would support multi-community action. A regional body governing Leverett or over- regulation of these areas. Sharborn seeing its policies should be resisted abso- The regional plan lutely. It would be one more clump of bureau- ficient power to re cratic crabgrass planted in our midst. It T.he committee felt that this community growth issues. The could do more to destroy Leverett than any would support no -regional issues. There are part of regional a problem now facing it. some endeavors that possibly the town would well funded feder Leverett be interested inwith other communities but it public hearings, A would take a good selling job and an in-depth attended. Instead Regional action should be pursued only as a study before it would be considered by the assist established last resort when the desired future was town. Holliston especially when imperiled and regional action was our only state regulations is recourse. New Salem There are issues which Hudson could ap- planning groups r proach on a regional basis - such as, solid when a regional waste disposal, sewerage treatment, river necessary professio pollution, regional planning, public transportation, mosquite control, vocational education, public safety, health care - indicating that we are presently doing so to some extent. Hudson 64 Resolving Common Problems The conditions under which the City would The committee believes that Walpole would support regional endeavors in the future consider supporting regional endeavors if it would simply be that all such endeavors be did not take away -any local powers and it did voluntary and that the City withdraw its not cost more. Realistically, the status quo support from the programs at any time it exists and there does not appear to be a wished. Moyo@e movement in that direction. The geographical limitations of the county has There is ample (in the minds of many, too failed our area as a workable region. The much) regional involvement which has question persists as to what our region is, and certain issues may create a regional response reduced local autonomy. A citizen expressed whereas others may not. the community's feelings well when he stated Walpole that the only time we should regionalize was Rl"i"I"'T'@1 :L, atgunpoint." EastBridgewater There is a lack of inter-community coopera- tion and communication which has Manchester has participated on a limited negative impact on Shelburne. Each town basis in regional plans: a vocational high ha .s its own set of problems with its own list of A proposal towards school, proposed solid-waste disposal priorities. They are all finding it difficult to future is the continuati I, a make ends meet but they have not been very mittee's work, but not shared health inspector. The Town's general successful in solving problems cooperatively. reacting to a very re approach toward regional solutions can be Shelburne ceived questionnaire. I expected to continue, based on economics, growth planning com but there is an apprehension as to the effec- There should be further regional cooperation recommend various al tiveness of the state and federal bureau- cracies. in economic development; recreation and aware of planning in ot Manchester conservation areas also. Blackstone The group would be ad way regulatory. This community would not consider regional actions unless a specific issue wa s of Water, sewerage, and solid waste disposal tremendous importance and positively could are certainly areas in which regional action Regional endeavors m not be achieved by the Town on its own. Fear would be desirable. Likewise, transportation, munity to exercise som of large government makes most people schools (i.e., vocational, Chapter 766, etc.) and to insure accounta shudder and this is a prime deterrent to are already working toward this. that are broad and expe regional action. Scituate Duxbury Only if not detrimental to our self determina- tion. Ashby AnEvaluatiozz Chapter 7 An Evaluation of Past Performanc State Government The lack of coordination among state On the whole, Ipsv agencies and between those agencies and laws, programs, an Two of the principal objectives of the growth the city is best illustrated by a current project impact on Ipswich, policy process have been: to evaluate how well in Cambridge - the Red Line subway ex- feeling that most o things are going, and to promote communica- tension to the Alewife Brook area. A number the benefit of the tion between local and state government. As a of state agencies are involved in this project: region and others result, local comments on state government are MDC, MBTA, DPW, and MAPC. The lack of relationship to thos central to any recommendations coming out of understanding of each agency's area of juris- the long run will this process. diction and each agency's commitment to Ipswich. Already, 7he first section deals with communifies'eval- public improvements leaves the city of wealth's mandate uation of existing state laws, programs, and Cambridge in a position of having to have increased tax policies and their impact on growth and de- coordinate and seek in writing the commit- ments on local sel velopment. The second section includes a ment of each ot proposed future develop- Snob Zoning" are number of local recommendations for changes ment. If the Alewife Brook development area against the desire in state government. coordination were unique, one would dismiss single family home The majority of the excerpts in this Chapter the need for state coordination of its own most widely accept are critical of state government. We will not at- agencies, but it is not unique. Any major are those which p tempt to respond to those criticisms here. (See new development in this state will require natural resource the forthcoming draft Statewide Growth Policy such cooperation. If the state fails in an area therefore, limit furt Report.) Most are clearly well-founded. We where all parties have similar goals, then a have only attempted here as one community state growth policy has little hope of being Part of the proble implemented. proposed, "to accept them in the spirit in which Cambridge and state agencie they were offered able . . . . Initial Our criticisms of state government are not broken .... Technic markedly different from other communities: the setting of standards without any assistance in complying for the affected com- Overly specific sta munities; the slowness and uncertainty of health area often i state funds due cities and towns and due largely unnecessa individuals dealing with state government; part-time basis in s the heavy reliance on the property tax as a What makes sense means of financing government services; the always make sense f apparent inability of state government to process its required paperwork with any moderate degree of speed; and a lack of Many state regulat leadership which will improve our business increased taxation climate and our unemployment rate. Lenox level for most of the 66 An Evaluation of Past Performance The state has been unable to integrate the The existing state laws dealing with welfare The State Sanitary Cod goals and objectives of its various depart- encourage people to come into Amesbury beneficial in controllin ments so that they are complimentary rather from New Hampshire for handouts. Amesbury where town sewerage i than at odds. In particular, it would appear the Anti-Snob Zoning L that tax laws, economic development, en- In this area, we feel obligated to state that effective, the Wetland vironmental protection, and consumer there is some disagreement between the Strengthening of the A protection are not mutually supportive. members of the Growth Policy Committee and the Wetlands Prot Unless some hard, comprehensive decisions suggested. The town of and some of the other members of the com- are made in these areas to insure contribution munity. There is a general feeling by many of at the state-required I to a common end, neither the environment the citizens of North Andover that the state towns have not. Becaus nor the economy will be the winner. Both will does nothing right and that all st .ate siderable question as t end up losing perhaps more than they other- programs and policies are bad. When asked received by the town wise would have. with no policy at all. A about specific programs and issues, we were able. Changing the fi second area of non-integration of policies has unable to determine just what it is that these have worked satisfac to do with roads, mass transit, housing, and citizens see as being so bad. A few people'ex- town was not allowed to employment/economic development, which increases over a perio agai n often seem to be at odds. Any non-co- pressed a desire to move to New Hampshire result of the change in ordination at the state level will likely eventu- but we see that as a case of the grass being resulted in a healthy in ally impact Carlisle by putting perhaps greener in the other fellow's yard. The requirements of the avoidable pressure on our roads, housing, members of the Committee think that there budget has had a cons schools, and open spaces. are many areas of state responsibility that town's taxes. Carlisle need improvement, but that in general the laws, programs, and policies of this state lead Sunderland feels snowed under by state reg- to a better quality of life than is available in All existing state la ulations. The building inspector feels very most other states. North Andover policies have a very sig restricted by the building code. The wetlands community, the regior law is not really applicable to Sunderland When state laws are passed, there is little Commonwealth - for but the regulations must be complied with. help, a great deal of paper work, and very makes its laws, progra The regulations against farm runoff are going expensive. There is too much bureaucratic poorly, i.e.: (a) its tax st to make it very difficult to continue farming * structure to facilitate state aid programs. its unemployment Sunderland Dighton managed; (c) its over programs are badly ad Wetlands Protection Act has benefited the The state tends to be provincial; it has the fiscal responsibility; ar town in providing the Conservation Commis- reputation for setting a single policy to cover is sinful. sion with methods of protecting fragile or a variety of situations. sensitive areas. Statewide standardization Springfield serves a larger purpose. Loncoster An Evaluation State wetlands laws are affecting develop- Existing state laws, ment in Melrose and have effectively stopped have a significant ir one subdivision. Wetlands legislation is seen development of this as a means of avoiding future problems and and the Commonwe costs to the city by preventing unsuitable tions could lead to c development. All state aid and assessment such as the Hatch A formulas need prompt review and revision. provide for follow-up State-local fiscal relationships suffer from a the community, and rat's nest of cherry sheet formulas and from in- MBTA assessment I equities in the establishment of equalized encouraged positive valuations. The state housing for the elderly town" regulation. L program has worked well aad the concept of 000000 lack of funding and the program is good. In practice, the product, worthless. The deve the actual housing, has been less well con- 000000 a OM of highways withou ceived. State-aided recreation facilities such 000000 communities to as the MDC pool are welcome in the city but 000000 000000 impacted has res the MDC tends to abandon the facility to 000000 toward the state. It i vandals through most of the year. Stronger 00-0000 to expend the time local control over MDC facilities might be 000000 matching funds. St beneficial. Melrose can affect the grow community. En The Commonwealth can help in the resolu- statements are at ti tion of these issues by increasing the local The present system of hearings and permits is prehensive. They c autonomy allowed in zoning regulations; en- overly cumbersome. Protection achieved is impact community couraging the rural, agricultural base of the appreciated but decision processes should widening of major town by farm tax assistance, estate tax as- be streamlined so as to not unrealistically school. Many times sistance, and the development of a 4-level hamper desireable activity. Cohasset gram will result in i tax plan for the use of land (commercial, resi- then reflected in tf dential, agricultural, and conservation); and State laws, programs, and policies have both necessary, but they providing financial assistance for the good and bad effects. If state laws or policies velopment. purchase of open space and recreational do not fully consider local effects, then poor areas by the Town. West Tisbury results occur. Based on the cost of living and Chapter 70 school high taxes imposed in Massachusetts and has had a positive i We have fears that state action may interfere movement of industry out of state, it could be school busing reim with the orderly growth the planning board said that thEtstate is poorly administered and had a negative e has provided for. Brewster lacks solid planning. A ttleborough busing program hell 68 An Evaluation of Past Performance Towns such as Acton are increasingly unable The State has helped tc to control their economic affairs because of our conservation lar state interference in areas such as collective housing for the elderly f bargaining and compulsory arbitration and up regulations for const state mandated programs. Even in those which, if not in conformi situations where a program may have a de- Many of these reg unnecessary and sirahle objective, the imposition by the state may have a serious negative impact on the requirements which ha finances of communities like ours. By this we high manitenance costs do not mean to suggest that the state and federal governments do not have legitimate areas of concern and activity, nor do we Many of the State's reg offer a sound basis f mean to impugn either the motives of or the abilities of their professional staffs. standard of living and p Acton vironment by placing making process at the I MEPA is a constant threat to the City's ness of these progra economic development because of the pro- mined by provisions hibitive cost involved by the City - while the agencies, appeals whic decisions contrary to pollution controls are set by the State. The State offered no assistance in assuring that example is the decision IJ plans would meet requirements. (This is an Natural Resources to example of the State and Federal bureau- Conservation Commiss cracy and technology in the failure of the an "Order of Conditio City's new incinerator to meet MEPA Reduce the term of the legislature to no more additional acreage in tI standards.) FaIlRiver than 120 days, reinforce home rule, less inter- disposal of solid wast ference in local rule by state; allow communi- completely frustrates t The State Building Code was imposed hastily ties to keep 50% of the state income tax rule. Not only have via and without sufficient education. Many before expenses then remit remainder of filled without a full av persons feel that it is inflexible and does not money to state, give the total lottery returns, term effects but also th take into account the antiquity of buildings in before expenses to cities and towns, expen- disposal sites has been part of the Town (e.g., height of porch rail- ses to be taken out of state's share of income months or even years. ings, size of doors). We feel that its inflexi- tax. Reduce the state to the servant of the bility discourages rehabilitation of older communities not as their boss. State guidelines somet buildings. Because of its complexity, our Douglas beneficial to the town. building inspector's department had to be made for the Boston;are increased in size. Marblehead to the Western area of th Reco Recommended Changes The State should play less politics and The state's recent interest in growth policy Recommended stat display more intelligence by not enacting and land use planning must be directed from administration for additional useless legislation. Cutting of cost the state level toward the urbanrenewal task reduce the cost of of State Government, welfare, unemploy- as most urgent. Both commercial/industrial ture of governmen ment compensation and reduction of taxes a facilities and residential resources must be county-state should must. Establish and support one agency such redeveloped in order to retain economic determine if it meet as the Office of State Planning to act as "Big activity and the residential population in the lature has got to Brother" for small towns. Southbridge urban environment. Redevelopment which require loca assistance must be made available to the cannot afford. The Office of State Planning should not be small land owner and indigenous civic allowed to become a bureaucratic maze organizations interested in improving the The negative aspe neighborhoods and upgrading the quality of Rockland life for the residents. By upgrading services growth of industry and living conditions in the urban centers, facilitated without The state and federal governments should growth pressures will be reduced on the tion system, lower t allow the towns to decide their own future. facilities. However, while providing help on a consulting basis suburban areas on the fringe of the urban instituted without not a dictatorial one. Further, we believe the centers as well as the farmlands lying necessary to prom state should provide services as requested so beyond. Hingham funding certainly is long as the decisions are legally sound. pletely local level. Plympton We recommend that the state shift the this area essential. support of schools from the property tax to an It should become standard procedure for income tax, return home rule to communities State should pressur state agencies to communicate with appro- in lieu of state edicts and state mandates to give communitie priate local officials and boards immediately which are not state funded, change tax struc- of community dev upon learning of any plans, either private or tures to encourage industry to stay in Mass- consider communi governmental, which would affect the town. achusetts, evaluate transfer of development achievements. Our experience in the past has shown that rights to aid agricultural industry and to this has not been the practice. Warren preserve open space, and become more energy self sufficient. Laneshoro Growth-related issu State and federal governments should back nificance: water an off in the area of land use and zoning. They cars on the roads d should operate on strictly enabling legisla- portation, which als tion. Land acquisition should be encouraged ing. We need mor( for the Town, as well as for agricultural uses. with open space as Sudbury tation of cities into spaces so not every move out into rural open spaces. 70 Recommended Changes Having the cooperation of state and federal The following State governments, thoroughly consider the were the subject of specific needs of individual towns, and Growth Policy Conin A, realize that one building code or one specific public hearings: (1) the law cannot be equally beneficial to all towns. 7: (2) the State Plumbin burning law; (4) regul Bolton small businessman ("s Problem seems to be there are too many laws I"C employer with perhaps now; should have fewer and simpler laws. the statute governing e a Need for a coordinating state agency for dents for service on offi state approvals, to "clean up the red tape." If not the impact of these state is not capable of finding means of meeting its own responsibilities, loc 011 and development per al Plainfield residents; it i governments should be able to do it the way Rm programs into individ s they feel it should be done; should be les MA personal initiative, s , t @WnA state control over local affairs. State is not U-1 dependence, and loca 5"g, "town-oriented." Holliston sensitivity of (5), for exa of governance in smal Through these regulato Help from the State: (1) Expansion and im- needlessly intervenes a provements in facilities on State land to create more and varied recreation. (2) All in areas which should b 0- or to the local communi cation of more money for the town to use at its discretion, to improve the town itself in what- kind of government act ever areas it feels necessary to make the town us, and it is the inevitab more attractive to the potential newcomers. Leave us alone. Allow homeowners to do their of government activity (3) State legislation should be adopted that own plumbing, wiring, building, and well. That is, each regul would recognize the problems of small towns, sanitary systems so long as they pass inspec- about an increase in a and would adjust all laws so that these towns tion. Approve the clivus-multrum type of forcement personnel, i get their fair share of both costs and benefits waterless composting toilet. Make streams on bureaucracy, which w and are not subjected to the unrealistic re' state property available for small hydro- support. We citizens of quirements of much city-oriented legislation. electric generators. Allow large acreage get it both ways: our va Sandisfield zoning to preserve rural character and agri- and we have to pay cultural land, but not for snob purposes. Make Chapter 90 funds available for building narrow local roads that look beauti- ful. Eliminate inheritance taxes on agricul- tural land. All these state laws hinder our community. NewSalem Reco Legislators must be made aware of the Adaptations of state policies relating to land The principal constr impact of their actions. New state and/or use, economic development and housing funds to promote de federal programs must be carefully reviewed must be made to accommodate local regional basis. Spe for their absolute necessity and cost effective- conditions. It must be recognized by the veloped to aid inc ness. Existing programs must receive the legislative and executive agencies that a obtaining local goal same critical appraisal. Groveland tract of land without public water or should general aid p sewerage, removed from mass transit In planning, there is a need for local com- facilities and in rural settings must be The Office of State muniti Ies to commit themselves to long-range considered under different guidelines than a less time preparing planning including methods to achieve the similar-sized tract in an urban or suburban communities to tell long-range goals. The state might help setting that has the benefit of public water Instead, the OSP sh and sewerage. The recognition that local through an offering of funds to defer costs of opinions and values as well as local control with communities tc technical assistance (such as planning con- are keys to our governmental system must be plans for solving pr sultants) in a voluntary program for local enhanced among the executive agencies. concern. Most com community planning. Holland Lakeville want and have bee they want for years. The state should amend the enabling acts for Institute legislative action on the Legis- zoning, subdivision control, and wetlands, to lature's own sponsored studies. We were shocked to eliminate conflict and provide for greater co- . Polmer involvement in ever operation among town boards.... Have the With tax revenues stretched beyond the urge elimination Department of Public Health and the Depart- limits of fiscal responsibility to do what is government conce ment of Environmental Quality Engineering major problems. encourage sewage disposal options other essential, the state and federal government than large-scald treatment plants and in- should do such planning as is necessary in dividual in-ground septic systems. . . . Are their respective spheres and leave local com- My Minority Repo state laws on low-income housing en- munities to work out their own planning Policy would be si couraging the creation of instant slums? without overlays or bureaucracy and the tax only as good as tha burden to support it. enforcement of thos Education programs for town officials of state Orleans long as the courts a laws and programs; provide for an exchange conscience then thE of information among towns. . . . Amend state cifically, the State has made recom- mostly useless piec laws to require a developer to contribute land SPe or money toward municipal services, such as mendations and suggestions but has failed to better off without a schools, parks, fire stations. follow up with manpower, money, or active involved would n Hopkinton participation in several areas in the past. heartache of a dista Marlborough a damn. Don't pas government when t ernment is going to it. 72 Recommended Changes We recommend that the State should begin to The fragmented permit system which de- State laws, programs, consider preservation of local character, as velopers have to go through should be co- nificant impact on gr determined by local residents, sufficient ordinated and simplified. Thisdoes not mean but they generally grounds for limiting growth. Having chosen a the creation of a single authority but develop- benefits and are exp particular community in which to live on the ment of a procedure that coordinated the de- This committee feels basis of its present character, members of cisions of the various boards involved. The latory programs are that community should have the right to aim is to have a one-stop permit system. adequately assess block growth that is believed to be Pittsfield impacts. Some of the s detrimental to that character. better administered at Nantucket The State should abolish county government state-wide problems forthwith. The functions performed now by possibly alleviate are State and federal agencies should review county government administration of agricultural lands an their programs for overlap and eliminate courts, hospitals, vocational schools, and upon the local propert needless ones, especially those that impose road construction - can be handled more decisions and actions. unrealistic restrictions at the local level. Give effectively and more efficiently by state or the community the option of implementing local government. Framingham Grafton would like to s controls. Attleborough cation system betwee We need a state legislature that is more State itself. State pl State funding for road maintenance has been sensitive to rural problems and that can pro- hampered the town's p aimed at paving, widening and keeping UP ideas and conformities paved roads. In many areas of our town the vide fewer regulations and more available difficult time with. Our dirt roads provide very adequately for our use money. Shutesbury a much better job w and add to the character of the town. We do exploring an area unf not wish to pave them but would rather main- At our public hearing the opinion was expres- clear-cut outline of Stz tain them properly. The state needs to sed that there should be improved coordina- evident and applied t consider this an equal priority with the tion with the town as to use of state-owned help, not hinder. The st paving projects in their funding program. land within the town, and as to any state pro- out of Massachusetts; Shutesbury grams carried on within the town. It is im- high, tax rates are t portant that the state seek local input prior to programs cannot be m More permissive and less mandatory legis- formulating plans or programs for land use,. vive. lation. Worthington road construction, traffic flow, signs, and other common interests. Shrewsbury Index Acton 13, 27, 37, 46, 68 Chatham 10 Georgetown 61 Leyden 9, Acushnet 18 Chelmsford 5, 10, 22, 27, 41, 58, 59 Gloucester 17 Lincoln 25 Adams 31, 69 Chelsea 29 Grafton 72 Longmead Agawam 14, 53, 65 Cheshire 14, 49 Granby 34, 69 Lowell 11, Alford 44, 51 Chester 20 Granville 23 Lunenbur@ Amesbury 34, 69 Chicopee 16, 22, 35, 51, 56 Great Barrington 26 Lynnfield Amherst 13, 49, 55 Cobasset 18, 67 Greenfield 45 Andover 12 Colrain 8, 15, 17 Groton 4, 47 Malden 9 Arlington 25 Concord 24, 44, 68 Groveland 3, 18, 31, 71 Manchest( Ashburnham 30 Conway 21, 26, 47, 61 Mansfield Ashby 64 Cummington 25 Halifax 5, 30, 57 MarbleheE Ashfield 8, 10, 29 Hamilton 14, 57 Marion 12 Attleborough 33, 67, 72 Dalton 45 Hancock 4, 18, 27, 34 Marlborou Auburn 4, 12, 22, 30, 50, 62 Danvers 33, 45, 54 Hanover 46 Marshfield Avon 28 Dartmouth 47, 55, 59 Hanson 15, 60 Mattapois Dedham 18,29,60 Hardwick 51 Maynard -, Barnstable 10 Dennis 37 Harvard 38 Medfield 2 Bedford 9, 47 Dighton 66 Harwich 31 Medford 2 Belchertown 4 Douglas 17,68 Hatfield 31, 53 Medway4 Bellingham 16 Dover 21, 54 Haverhill 12, 18, 29, 71 Melrose I Belmont 7, 42 Dracut 3, 6, 39 Hawley 10, 30 Merrimac Berkley 14, 20, 53 Dudley 35 Hingham 28, 32, 52, 59, 69 Methuen 2 Billerica 13 Duxbury 4, 14, 59, 64 Holden 9 Middlebor Blackstone 4, 64 Holland 29, 71 Middlefiel Bolton 14, 19, 58, 70 East Bridgewater 64 Holliston 11, 23, 63, 70 Middleton Boston 4, 20, 24, 33, 35, 39, 44, 48 East Brookfield 22, 28, 51 Holyoke 46, 64 Milford 11 Boxborough 9, 13, 2 7, 49 East Longmeadow 32, 38, 45, 51 Hopedale 45 Millbury 9 Boylston 8, 17, 35, 44 Easton 40, 64 Hopkinton 11, 36, 71 Millis 52 Braintree 35, 52 Essex 13, 47 Hubbardston 26, 65 Milton 38 Brewster 67 Everett 28, 50 Hudson 35, 63, 66 Monson 9, Bridgewater 16 Hull 26 Monterey Brimfield 31 Fairhaven 14, 61 Mount Wa Brockton 34, 45, 49, 58 Fall River 25, 35, 68 Ipswich 65 Brookline 8, 32 Falmouth 23, 48 Nahant 9 Burlington 6, 12, 13, 37 Fitchburg 32, 34, 40, 53, 61 Lakeville 40, 71 Nantucket Florida 17, 26, 27 Lancaster 21, 43, 66 Natick 55, Cambridge 23, 44, 65 Foxborough 37, 60 Lanesborough 62, 69 Needham Canton 8, 71 Framingham 5, 32, 47, 71, 72 Leicester 21 New Bedfo Carlisle 12, 24, 33, 38, 48, 66 Franklin 21, 25 Lenox 4, 17, 32, 37, 54, 65 New Brain Carver 55 Freetown 16 Leominster 34, 40 New Marl Charlemont 15, 25 Leverett 19, 39, 63, 69 New Sale Charlton 10, 23, 50, 53 Gardner 35, 48 Lexington 8, 56 Newbury 74 Index Newburyport 12, 29 Rockland 69 Wakefield 63 Newton 16, 17, 32, 40, 43, 55 Rockport 26 Walpole 16,64 Norfolk 7, 13, 35 Rowley 16, 38 Waltham 43, 55 North Adams 33 Russell 21, 35, 56 Wareham 50 North Andover 3, 11, 15, 25, 43, 66 Rutland 10, 16 Warren 6, 28, 34, 41, 48, 69 North Attleborough 4, 7, 17, 34, 49, 58 1 1 Watertown 9, 21 North Brookfield 36, 55 Salem 25 Wayland 57 Northborough 26 Salisbury 18 Webster 68 Northbridge 15 Sandisfield 70 Wellesley 18, 27, 43, 46, 48, 57 Norton 42, 61 Sandwich 45 Wendell 13, 34 Norwell 28, 43 Saugus 12, 35, 68 Wenham 31 Norwood 61 Scituate 64 West Boylston 63 Seekonk 49 West Brookfield 23, 52 Oakharn 16 Sharon 55 West Newbury 6, 17, 31 Orleans 71 Sheffield 29, 62 West Springfield 39 Otis 28 Shelburne 21, 33, 60, 64 West Stockbridge 21 Oxford 31, 32, 36 Sherborn 26, 28, 37, 52, 57, 63 West Tisbury 10, 23, 57, 67 Shirley 14 Westfield 5, 8, 21, 24, 30, 66 Palmer 33, 61, 71 Shrewsbury 6, 35, 72 Westford 27, 36 Peabody 41 Shutesbury 7, 72 Westhampton 6, 31, 38 Pelham 23, 38 Somerset 19 Westminster 53 Pembroke 60 Somerville 11, 15, 58 Westport 52, 60 Pepperell 29, 59 South Hadley 17, 26, 59 Westwood 12, 35 Peru 13, 48 Southbridge 29, 36, 40, 63, 69 Weymouth 20, 42 Petersham 15, 21, 59 Spencer 8, 26, 39 Whately 38, 42, 50, 56 Phillipston 19 Springfield 49, 66 Whitman 61 Pittsfield 6, 29, 72 Sterling 62, 72 Williamstown 51 Plainfield 22, 32, 70 Stockbridge 17 Wilmington 5, 18, 40, 58 Plainville 10, 18 Stoughton 40 Windsor 29 Plymouth 19, 37 Stow 26 Winthrop 61 Plympton 26, 31, 69 Sudbury 4, 42, 52, 58, 69 Woburn 15 Princeton 6, 14, 53 Sunderland 53, 66 Worcester 5, 40, 46, 50, 53, 62 Provincetown 15, 25, 36 Swampscott 19 Worthington 72 Swansea 7 Wrentham 21 Quincy 7, 42, 50, 56, 58 Taunton 37 Yarmouth 61 Randolph 40 Tewksbury 9, 16 Reading 33 Topsfield 54, 55, 67 Rehoboth 16 Townsend 71 Revere 10, 32, 56 Tyngsborough 19, 49, 62 Richmond 11, 27, 46, 63 Rochester 3, 16 Uxbridge 9 .-T , Lz_ 77_@- w; y Tj IF - j,-" 4P j f X ..........I r \ 1@@ Y if ___jw-, _N, _L__ Tll NNIII, @A T7' 77 -IT.. ,o 0 o o O"Lll n 0 10 2o MKILO.ETERS Errata: Page 29, third column should appear under "Commercial Development on page 45. Page 49, first column, Amherst excerpt should appear under "Community Character" on page 22. Page 32, second column, Revere excerpt, line 2, first word should read "hierarchical." Page 36, third column, Mansfield excerpt,line 9, sixth word should read "severely." Page 50,second column, Mattapoisett excerpt, line 1, first word should read "transporta- tion." Page 65, second column, Cambridge excerpt, line 13, fourth word should read "to." Designed by Dennis O'Reilly Set in 11/12 Stymie, by Together Graphics, Inc. Printed and bound by Shawprint Illustration Credits: J.K. Spurling (for the Mass. Historic Commission), page 19; Larry Linder, Center Con- sultants, page 20; Mardges Bacon (for the Mass. Historic Commission), page 23; John W. Clough (for the Mass. Historic Commission), page 30; Human Services Corporation, Lowell, page 33; Vision, Inc., -pages 45, 62, 68, 70; Massachusetts Department of Commerce and Development, Division of Tourism, page 59; Dennis O'Reilly, pages 8, 10, 11, 14, 25, 26, 27, 36, 37, 40, 42, 43, 44, 46, 47, 49, 50, 52, 53, 56, 57, 64. -V--- IV v S@, N A 0 % e o e@ %b co N\0 14 .40 Ap vo Cv) i,,o ev N Xe ,o co 040 o Rl, cp No zo 0 all bF op 6 mv -,0* A dv \G 6%7 4 Z4@ io qo 4J7 14 @p 6\% 1 0 NO cp 4 q) 41@ 10, o@ 44e C 4@; 0 O"ll '0 A@ N \%N, 3 6668 00002 1255 0@3