[Massplanners] Definitive Subdivision -Covenant Expiration

[Richard Harris]

Gary,

I would not say they are “obligated” to extend. I would be inclined to ask
why no site work has begun and ask for a fairly defined schedule for the
infrastructure work.

Since it is under covenant, no lot buyers would be affected by not
extending. However, the applicant invested a lot of funding and the Board a
lot of time in getting to the point of a Definitive Plan approval. So. if
the applicant can give a good reason for not commencing work and provide a
clear schedule for proceeding, I would encourage extending the approval.

Thank you

Richard Harris, AICP
PDR, LLC
Planning Consultant
413-335-5012


On Sat, Feb 3, 2024 at 7:11 AM Harry LaCortiglia via MassPlanners <
massplanners at masscptc.org> wrote:

> Hi Gary,
>
> Our standard Subdivision Decision language gives the board the option of
> extending the date if construction hasn't begun. (Although it does not
> obligate the Board to do so.)
>
> If your zoning hasn't changed in the locus of the subdivision, and the
> applicant asks for an extension before the expiration date, you're probably
> saving a great deal of time and expense by extending it as a business item.
>
> After all, if the applicant needs to come in formally and go through the
> whole Hearing process for the same subdivision approval, it's a bit silly
> to not extend the deadline.
>
> All of this is just the opinion of an old Planning Board Member...and your
> results may vary, be sure to take into consideration the feelings of your
> Building Inspector, and the involvement of the abutters.
> Best,
>
> H. LaCortiglia
>
>
>
> On 2/2/2024 8:31 AM, Gary Bechtholdt via MassPlanners wrote:
>
> Hello All:
>
>
>
> Perhaps a good Friday questions.
>
>
>
> Have a Definitive Subdivision Plan approval /Covenant about to expire
> (March 2024) -development has yet to commence any type of construction.
>
>
>
> Is the Planning Board obligated to grant any sort of extension?
>
>
>
> Curious to hear from your experiences & thoughts concerning this.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
>
> -Gary
>
>
>
> R. Gary Bechtholdt II
>
> Planning & Community Development Director
>
>
>
> *Northbridge Community Planning & Development*
>
> Aldrich School -Town Hall Annex, 14 Hill Street
>
> (508) 234-2447
>
>
>
> Northbridge Memorial Town Hall
>
> 7 Main Street, Whitinsville, MA 01588
>
> www.northbridgemass.org
>
>
>
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