The Milton Planning Board is seeking a significant funding increase for fiscal year 2027, eyeing a $90,000 budget to tackle what officials describe as roadblock zoning bylaws that currently force residents into costly and lengthy legal processes for simple home improvements. The request, which represents a $40,000 increase over the current year’s allocation for planning studies, aims to fund a comprehensive codification of the town’s zoning rules to eliminate internal contradictions and streamline the permitting process.

Planning Director Liz Manny initially presented a level-funded request of $50,000 for general planning studies, noting that administrative support costs are still being negotiated through the Community Preservation Committee. However, board members argued that the town cannot afford to wait on cleaning up its complex regulatory landscape. Member Cheryl Tougias led the push for the higher funding amount, stating, I advocate for the codification. We should increase our ask. If we ask for $90,000—$50k for studies and $40k for codification—we can make the case. Codification saves staff time and prevents legal costs for homeowners. Tougias noted that residents are currently forced to hire attorneys for routine matters like pool setbacks due to the confusing nature of the existing bylaws. Following the discussion, Motion Made by J. Davis to support a $50,000 request for planning studies and a $40,000 request for a planning board contribution to the zoning bylaw codification. Motion Passed (5-0).

The urgency of the budget request was underscored by the introduction of Milton’s new Building Commissioner, Michael White. White provided a blunt assessment of the town’s current zoning code, describing it as a primary obstacle to efficient town management. The time we spend interpreting it is a roadblock, White told the board. One page says one thing, the fourth page says disregard. One section says height is 20 feet, another says 21. I have a running list of conflicts. White reported that the Zoning Board of Appeals is currently booked through July, largely due to a tremendous amount of non-conforming projects that he would otherwise be able to approve administratively if the bylaws were clearer.

The board also addressed the evolving landscape of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Commissioner White reported that the town already has 12 applications in the pipeline. He highlighted the technical challenges of retrofitting existing homes, explaining that the state requires a fire-rated cocoon for internal units and mandatory separate addresses to assist first responders. Fire rating is the biggest hindrance for retrofitting internal units, White noted, adding that his office is now issuing separate ADU permits to properly track these units as required by the state. Chair Meredith Hall noted that the Attorney General recently struck certain language from Milton’s ADU bylaw, including a 350-square-foot minimum size and mobile home prohibitions, which must be removed from the town's records before final printing.

The meeting served as an introduction for the town’s new Assistant Planner, Avante Grady, who recently completed graduate studies at Northeastern University. My studies focused on environment and sustainability. My graduate program focused on sustainability and resilience, Grady said. Director Manny noted that Grady has already begun assisting with the Sign Review Committee and grant applications through the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC).

Board members scrutinized the town’s relationship with the MAPC, questioning the value of the $17,000 annual assessment Milton pays to the regional agency. Member Tougias expressed frustration over the delay of an economic feasibility analysis for East Milton Square and requested a detailed summary of the agency’s recent listening sessions regarding the Fruit Center. Manny defended the expenditure, stating, We get a world-class regional planning agency. They do regional planning, population projections, and climate resilience modeling. Procurement is easier because they are a quasi-state agency.

The future of the East Milton fire station site also sparked debate. While some residents have pushed for diverse new businesses like bookstores or cafes, Member Jim Davis advocated for a more utilitarian approach. I support tearing down that building for a parking lot, Davis said. The town keeps the land, and it creates valuable parking for East Milton Square. Tougias argued that the Planning Board should be involved in the decision-making process immediately, even before an official application is filed, to ensure the site isn't filled by more real estate offices or nail salons.

In updates regarding the Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP), Chair Hall emphasized the need for better mapping of town-owned land. I want a color-coded map so people know what is town land, Hall said, noting that the committee is currently identifying which parcels are protected conservation land versus DCR or town-owned tracts. Member Margaret Oldfield raised concerns about public trust regarding land preservation, stating, My fear is that the goodwill of residents who donate land is gone because the town hasn't been strategic in preserving it. We need to re-establish that trust.

Procedurally, the board addressed past records, with Member Sean Fahy noting his upcoming absence for the December 11 meeting due to professional obligations in New York. The board also amended previous minutes to clarify that Member Oldfield had spoken with the assistant town administrator rather than the town administrator regarding Open Meeting Law matters. Motion Made by J. Davis to approve June 16th, June 17th, July 10th, and July 24th meeting minutes. Motion Passed (5-0). Additionally, Motion Made by J. Davis to approve the June 26 minutes as amended. Motion Passed (3-0-2) with Davis and Fahy abstaining due to absence from that session.