In early 2021, Section 3A of MGL. c. 40A (MBTA Communities legislation) took effect. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). the agency tasked with implementing this new law, released their final guidelines in Fall 2022.
To remain compliant, the Town of Billerica held a public meeting with the Select Board and submitted an acknowledgement form in April 2022. The next step was to submit our Action Plan (attached) by January 30, 2023. The State will require new zoning in place by December 30, 2024. The Action Plan includes a general timeline for accomplishing compliance on schedule.
ACTION PLAN
Click here to view the Action Plan submitted on January 20, 2023.
NEXT STEPS
The Town is working with NMCOG to assess alternatives and assist with public outreach around this issue.
| TASK | START DATE | END DATE |
|
|---|
Zoning Audit | November 2022 | March 2023 | |
Evaluate existing conditions for MBTA Communities feasibility | November 2022 | March 2023 | |
Public Listening and Education Meetings | January 2023 | May 2023 | |
Draft new Zoning and Map amendments | June 2023 | December 2023 | |
Public Meetings (prep for Town Meeting) | January 2024 | April 2024 | |
Annual Town Meeting | May 2024 | May 2024 | |
Submit Compliance Application to DHCD | May 2024 | May 2024 | |
If necessary Prep for Fall 2024 Town Meeting | May 2024 | September 2024 | |