The Sutton Select Board will hold a public hearing on May 19 regarding the town’s application for a Chapter 40R/40S Smart Growth Overlay District, according to an announcement released on May 14. The meeting is set to begin at 6:00 p.m., with the Smart Growth Zoning public hearing scheduled for 6:15 p.m. at Sutton Town Hall.
The proposed bylaw aims to address local housing needs identified in Sutton’s Housing Production Plan update. Chapter 40R/40S zoning is designed to encourage higher-density, smart growth development in targeted areas while offering financial incentives to municipalities. If adopted, Chapter 40S would allow Sutton to seek reimbursement for any net increase in public school costs linked to new housing within the district.
The area under consideration includes parcels associated with Galaxy Development (Market 32 Plaza), including Phase 2 development and adjacent lots. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review draft materials such as the Smart Growth Zoning Bylaw, overlay district map, and design standards ahead of the hearing. These materials are available through the Planning Board’s section of the town website.
Public participation is emphasized as a key part of this process. “The Planning Board and Select Board welcome feedback and encourage residents to attend the hearing, ask questions, and share comments,” according to the announcement.
According to the official website, Sutton operates under a Town Manager appointed by its Select Board, requires an annual balanced budget submission from its Town Manager, spans about 33.9 square miles including several villages such as Sutton Center and Manchaug, maintains fire services across three stations, and emphasizes preserving its historic identity along with natural beauty that attracts residents seeking rural character.
For those unable to attend in person, the meeting will be broadcast live on Verizon channel 31/Spectrum channel 191; streamed via YouTube; or accessible through Zoom.
