Zoning Board of Appeals - 40B Timeline

Public Hearings Open: Strategic Land Ventures (SLV) received a Project Eligibility Letter (PEL) from MassHousing on September 16, 2021. On September 27, 2021 SLV filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for the development of Shingle Hill. The ZBA opened the public hearing process on October 26, 2021. 

Public Hearings Close: On Wednesday, July 27 public hearings closed on the 40B application. The ZBA has 40 days to deliberate and render a decision (by Tuesday, September 5) and 14 days thereafter to file that decision with the Town Clerk. The Zoning Board will carefully weigh the best possible course of action on behalf of the Town over the next few weeks. No public comment is allowed at meetings during the deliberation period. Also, any letters submitted after the closing hearing on July 27 will not be considered. 

ZBA Decision: On Tuesday, August 16, 2022, the ZBA voted 5-0 to deny the Comprehensive Permit sought by Mr. Engler of SLV, LLC to develop Shingle Place Hill under M.G.L. c. 40B. The ZBA made the determination that there were no conditions that could be imposed to adequately protect the safety of the residents with the single access road, steep grade and retaining walls and to protect the environment in this environmentally sensitive area. After the edits discussed Tuesday night are completed, the ZBA will file the Decision with the Town Clerk on August 30, 2022. ZBA Decision on 40B Application

Appeal to HAC: On Thursday, September 15, 2022 SLV filed with the MA Housing Appeals Committee (HAC) an Appeal of the ZBA denial of the Comprehensive Permit. See documents below. 

Next Steps: The appeal process is estimated to take about one year. The case between the Town and SLV (applicant) will be heard de novo meaning to start new. More information will be communicated as it is received.