Smart Growth Overlay Subdistict-1 Update and Next Steps

This update provides a link to the recording of the August 1, 2024, public hearing, and explains the future zoning process. Please note the deadline to submit written comment has been extended to September 6, 2024. Written comments can be submitted to [email protected].

Background: A public hearing was held on August 1st to provide an overview of the Smart Growth Overlay zoning process and to receive comment from interested persons relative to a preliminary application (linked here) to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) for the proposed creation of a Smart Growth Overlay district for the properties located at 56 Margin Street, 54 Margin Street, 7 High Street, 20 Endicott Street, and 24 Endicott Street.

A recording of the August 1st meeting is available here and on www.imaginesalem.org.

The City will review the public comments and may revise the proposed ordinance in the preliminary application in response to comments received. A summary of the revisions, if any, will be included in the preliminary application. In the fall, the City will submit the preliminary application to EOHLC. EOHLC then has 60 days to make a preliminary determination on whether the district would be eligible for financial incentives. A copy of the submitted application will be posted at www.imaginesalem.org.

EOHLC will review the preliminary application and provide a letter to the City stating whether the district is eligible, conditionally eligible, or not eligible to be a Smart Growth Overlay district. If it is eligible or conditionally eligible, the City will submit the proposed zoning ordinance to the City Council. Then, the City Council will schedule a joint public hearing with the Planning Board, where public comment can be offered. After the joint public hearing is closed, the City Council will refer the ordinance to the Planning Board for a recommendation. After the Planning Board provides a recommendation, the City Council will vote on the ordinance at a regular City Council meeting. If it receives a majority of votes, it will need to receive a second majority vote at a second regular City Council meeting. Both City Council meetings will provide additional opportunities for public comment. Should the ordinance receive second passage by the City Council, the City would request final approval from EOHLC. A more detailed explanation of the process can be viewed at: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleVII/Chapter40R.com.

All updates will be shared on www.imaginesalem.org If there are any questions related to the zoning, please reach out to Elena Eimert at [email protected].