Norfolk Planning Board Votes 4-1 to Shelve Open Space Density Bylaw Amendment

NORFOLK — April 14, 2026 — Norfolk Planning Board tables open space density bylaw, clears several routine site actions. The board voted 4-1 on April 14 to indefinitely postpone a proposed amendment to Section 310-8.2 of the zoning bylaw that would have offered density bonuses of 20 percent or more in open space subdivisions across all three residential districts — a tool Town Planner Richard McCarthy designed to give developers a financially viable alternative to Chapter 40B comprehensive permits. Member Melissa Mayo presented spreadsheet analysis showing gross profit under the open space path at roughly $3 million on a hypothetical 10-acre parcel versus approximately $10.5 million on a 100-unit 40B, leading the majority to conclude the bylaw was unlikely to change developer behavior. "I feel like I couldn't go into town meeting and sell why we should do this as Norfolk," said Chair Chris Montfort. Gary Sullivan cast the lone yes vote. In other business, the board approved site plan modifications for Island Light and Power at 9 Shire Drive, approved a change of use for Wolfpack Athletics at 8 Sharon Avenue, approved a sign special permit at 224 Dedham Street, released a $200,931 performance bond for the Pondville Heights subdivision, and continued the NextGrid solar and battery storage hearing and the 33 Pond Street pickleball court application to May 12.