Pros, Cons for Article 4 at Special TM

The six-article Special Town Meeting planned for Monday, Dec. 2 has Weston talking.

Blogs on Patch took either side on Article 4, which would amend the zoning bylaw for Historic Structures Preservation Development.

Here’s the article’s language:

“This article proposes a by-law encouraging and promoting the rehabilitation and re-use of qualified historic structures through a special permit review process incorporating standards and criteria including, but not limited to, compatibility of proposed use or uses, preservation of architectural features, landscaping, lighting, and parking. The intent of the by-law is to preserve Weston’s historical character while providing for and encouraging the rehabilitation and re-use of historic structures. A two-thirds vote of Town Meeting is required to approve this article.” 

Selectman Ed Coburn wrote a blog in favor of Article 4.

“I have met with the founder of Historic Weston and heard about their idea for reuse of these properties. It is a worthy and potentially viable idea. But the Town is best served by discussing that idea on its merits, in the context of considering other options and not because we defeat a bylaw amendment in order to constrain our own choices to leave it the only game in town,” wrote Coburn.

Bill Sandalls, on the other hand, suggests passing over Article 4.

“Weston has an opportunity to consider similar alternatives for the Old Library and the Josiah Smith Tavern. What is needed now is the time to consider these alternatives. Weston residents can help provide that time by voting to defer action on Article 4 at the December 2 town meeting. Doing so will not preclude the Planning Board from presenting this same amendment at a future town meeting,” wrote Sandalls. 

Read more about the articles here. 

Town Meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2 in the Senior High School Auditorium.

What do you think? Where do you stand on Article 4 and the other articles planned on Monday?