WESTFORD – The Select Board met on January 13 to discuss the town’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw outreach, and listened to a permit appeal as well as a major presentation on long-term town facilities planning.
Public events and ADU bylaw outreach
Town Manager Kristen Las announced several opportunities for resident involvement for January, including ADU bylaw workshops, Linked & Livable Neighborhoods, Littleton Road Pedestrian Plan, Route 40 Corridor Study, and budget review public sessions. The ADU bylaw workshop was intended to clarify how the bylaw works and what homeowners need to know before applying.
Select Board members emphasized that, while the bylaw is in place, confusion remains about requirements, particularly around permitting and compliance with zoning and building codes. The discussion focused on improving public communication, including clearer written guidance and potential follow-up sessions for residents considering ADUs.
The Select Board noted that ADUs remain a key component of the town’s broader housing strategy, particularly as Westford works to comply with state housing mandates while maintaining neighborhood character.
Solicitor permit appeal heard
The Board considered an appeal from Edward App after the police department initially denied their solicitor permit application based on bylaw criteria. The applicant explained their business model relies heavily on door-to-door networking, emphasizing their small operation with family and property equipment.
Following the discussion with clarifying questions concerning past customer reviews, court issues, and a prior incident involving town shade trees, the Board voted 3-2 to deny the appeal, meaning the solicitor permit was not granted. Board members expressed appreciation for the applicant’s forthrightness, but cited patterns of issues and alternative business approaches as viable options.
Town facilities space planning update
Representatives from Tecton Architects (Rebecca Hopkins and Jeff McElravy) provided an update on ongoing work to assess current and future municipal space needs. The presentation reviewed preliminary findings on building conditions, space utilization, and long-term capital planning considerations. Board members discussed how the assessment could inform future decisions on renovations, expansions, or potential new construction, stressing the importance of aligning facilities planning with projected population growth and service demands. The Board indicated that additional discussion will occur once the final report is completed and formally presented.
