Managing Brewster’s development: How do zoning and all our planning boards work together now? Can this deliver on our Vision?

Building restrictions vary by planning zone, there are more restrictions near the coast and wetlands, and special historic district rules apply around selected roads. Businesses want to start or expand, as residents seek affordable housing, solar panels or enlarged homes; and sometimes call in lawyers to help. As a community, we want to protect our water and environment, respond to climate change, and realize our shared vision to maintain Brewster’s rural character. Oh – and this all needs to integrate with Cape-wide Comprehensive Planning.

How do all these planning pieces work together now? What can we learn from past experiences and from the Cape-wide planning framework? Is this everything we need to achieve our Vision? Each panelist will explain their respective planning roles now and answer questions, then we’ll discuss if this can deliver our Brewster Vision.

Planning Now:
Buildings – Victor Staley, Building Commissioner
Planning and Zoning – member of our Planning Board
Near Coast and Wetlands – Noelle Bramer
Old King’s Highway Historic District role – James Trabulsie
Cumberland Farms example

Planning Future:
The Cape Cod framework – Heather McElroy, Cape Cod Commission
Realizing our Vision – Hal Minis, Vision Group

Questions and Discussion