Weston, Massachusetts Development News
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Development News from the latest meeting
Weston Planning Board Approves Increased Advertising Fee for Permit Applications
The Planning Board unanimously approved an increase in the advertising fee for permit applications. Due to the rising costs of newspaper advertisements, particularly after the cessation of the local 'Weston Town Crier,' the fee has been adjusted. Previously, costs ranged from $35 to approximately $1,600 (for the Globe). With the use of the 'Observer' newspaper, costs have settled around $260. The board approved a new fee of $300 to cover advertisement costs and administrative time for mailing notifications to abutters.
Weston Planning Board Recommends Native Tree Replacement for Historic Property
The Planning Board consulted on the replacement of a declining tree at a historic property (261 Merriam Street) as per the preservation restriction. The Historical Commission voted to remove the tree and sought the Planning Board's input on a replacement. The Board's landscape consultant recommended a native understory ornamental tree, such as a redbud, to be planted in a gap near existing trees. The board voted to recommend the planting of the recommended native ornamental tree. Separately, Leslie raised concerns about the condition of other shrubs and trees in nearby beds that were part of landscaping requirements, suggesting follow-up on their maintenance.
Weston Planning Board Consolidates and Revises Site Design Rules
The Planning Board is undertaking a comprehensive review and consolidation of the town's various land use and site design rules into a single document. This effort aims to simplify and update existing regulations, drawing best practices from subdivision rules, special permit flexibility, and site plan approval guidelines. The board is currently focusing on specific sections, such as those pertaining to mature tree preservation, acknowledging the need for nuance regarding invasive species and case-by-case discretion. The revised guidelines will be discussed further at the September 2nd meeting.
Weston Considers Ban on Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers to Reduce Noise and Pollution
The Planning Board discussed a proposal for a noise ordinance specifically targeting gas-powered leaf blowers. The proposal, driven by resident concerns about noise and pollution, includes a phased approach: seasonal and hour restrictions beginning in 2027, followed by a full ban on gas-powered leaf blowers by 2030. The rationale includes reducing noise pollution (gas blowers can reach 80-90 decibels), mitigating air pollution (one hour of use equivalent to driving a car 1100 miles), and protecting worker health. Numerous other municipalities have already adopted similar bans or restrictions, providing templates for Weston. Enforcement would likely fall to the Police Department, with initial warnings and escalating fines.
Weston Planning Board Discusses Urgent Housing Production Plan Update
The Planning Board discussed the town's Housing Production Plan (HPP), which is due for an update to maintain its Comprehensive Permit status and eligibility for state safe harbor provisions. The current HPP expired in 2021, and a new one must be submitted by August 14th to allow time for state review before the September 14th deadline. This is crucial for the town to deny new 40B applications. The town is working with a consultant, Community Scale, to expedite the process, which includes public outreach meetings on July 13th and July 25th. The town aims to reach 10% affordable housing stock, with current projects potentially contributing to meeting this goal.
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The Weston News archive
Finance Committee 7/8/2026
Regular Meeting Agenda (PDF) remote meeting
Regular meeting agenda (PDF) virtual meeting
Regular Meeting Agenda (PDF) zoom
Conservation Commission - 7/7/2026
Planning Board - 7/1/2026
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