Vote NO (Again) to Protect Zoning Height Restrictions

At Weston’s December 3rd Special Town Meeting, we will be asked to vote on several important zoning proposals, some of which could significantly transform the appearance and character of Weston. One of these is an Article which seeks to give Weston’s Select Board unlimited, unchecked authority over the height of all Town municipal buildings and other structures, eliminating any Planning Board, other Committee, or Town Meeting voter oversight. This proposal must be voted down – AGAIN!

Bad Idea Redux

You may recall that a virtually identical Zoning proposal, regarding the allowable height of municipal structures, was already voted down at the Weston Town Meeting on May 9, 2022. It was connected to another proposal regarding the replacement of the Paine’s Hill water storage tank.  (That proposal was also defeated, but for different reasons.) The stated rationale was to facilitate the eventual replacement of all three water storage tanks in Weston. However, this monumental change – both figuratively, in the magnitude of the change, and literally, in terms of the height of structures that might be built – is not necessary, and the argument for the change is no more persuasive now than it was two years ago.

Concerns About Governance and Oversight

The original proposal two years ago faced significant pushback for its potential to grant the Select Board unlimited discretion in approving all Town municipal construction projects without adhering to any standard community review processes. This approach was viewed as undermining vital safeguards that promote broad involvement and input, accountability, and transparency. The strong opposition to the measure highlighted the Weston community’s desire to maintain these protective mechanisms. Voters previously rejected this idea, recognizing that community input, oversight, and a transparent approval process are essential for responsible governance. The “new” proposal still represents a shift away from these established practices and community desires. 

Eliminating Current Zoning Protections Is Unnecessary

The existing Weston zoning By-Law already provides avenues to accommodate taller structures if and when necessary. Today, if the Town needs to erect a structure, like a water tank, that exceeds the allowable height, it can simply apply to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a special permit, or for a "police powers" exemption if a variance is required. Therefore, no change is needed in the Zoning By-Law. The Zoning Board of Appeals can issue special permits, and critical projects can receive exemptions as needed for public safety purposes. These mechanisms balance the need for flexibility in maintaining our infrastructure with the necessity of maintaining public involvement and community oversight.

Maintaining Community Engagement and Oversight

Voting NO on this zoning amendment is a thoughtful and responsible choice. Although the proposal is framed as simply a way to streamline infrastructure projects, it reduces community involvement and shifts decision-making authority to the Select Board. Maintaining the current zoning framework upholds transparency, encourages public participation, and provides balanced oversight. With existing regulations that already allow for necessary exceptions, this amendment is not only unnecessary, but also a step away from the values of community engagement and open governance. Preserving the current By-Law ensures that residents have a meaningful role in shaping major construction projects.