East Bridgewater Grapples with State-Mandated Zoning Changes

Town Must Allow Multi-Family Housing and Accessory Dwelling Units, according to the State

EAST BRIDGEWATER, MA - September 9 - East Bridgewater officials are wrestling with significant zoning changes mandated by the state's MBTA Communities Act, despite the town not having a train station. The changes, which include allowing multi-family housing by right and relaxing restrictions on accessory dwelling units, could alter the town's development landscape.

During the September 9 Select Board meeting, Town Moderator Robert Looney explained the requirements and potential impacts of the new law.

The MBTA Communities Act, originally intended to promote housing development near public transit, now includes communities like East Bridgewater that are near MBTA service areas. The town must comply by the end of the year or face potential consequences.

Looney continued to explain the recent change by the legislature to allow accessory dwelling units by right. He noted that the new rules would allow two freestanding buildings on a single lot, a departure from current zoning.

These zoning amendments will only require a simple majority vote at town meeting, rather than the usual two-thirds majority for zoning changes. This lower threshold could make it easier for the changes to pass.

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on the MBTA zoning changes Sept. 16, with an additional hearing on accessory dwelling units planned.

Officials expressed concerns about the potential impact on the town's character and infrastructure. "It's a huge change not to be owner-occupied," Looney noted, referring to the new rules for accessory dwelling units.

The consequences of non-compliance could be significant. Town Counsel explained, "One of the main things is grants. Obviously grant money. Certain state grants can be withheld. You basically don't qualify."

Counsel also mentioned more severe potential consequences, citing the ongoing legal battle with the town of Milton. "Part of their. The AG's lawsuit against Milton. Is basically they're asking to basically appoint a receiver. To take over," he said, though he acknowledged this was an extreme scenario.

Town Counsel also made a point to add the multifamily requirement isn’t specific to affordable housing. "You can have the nicest. You know most expensive. Condos and multi-use. And what not," suggesting that the changes wouldn’t necessarily lead to affordable development.