Zone Defense

Wednesday evening, I chaired Ordinance Committee hearings on trash regulations, green building requirements and Mid Cambridge downzoning. I felt bad that the hearings ran far behind schedule -- I know how hard it is for people to take the time to testify at city hall.

The public discussion on the trash regulations was helpful in highlighting specific neighborhood issues regarding rodents and trash storage. We need to amend our municipal code as quickly as possible to increase potential fines and to allow the Inspectional Services Department to penalize violations. Being able to fine violators rather than have to go to court should make them change their behavior.

The Planning Board had some questions about implementing LEED standards to require large developments in the city to be green buildings. Although they suggested a task force, I kept the proposal in our committee to try to work through their concerns more quickly. I introduced the order requesting a green building requirement in January, and want to see us implement a green building requirement as soon as possible -- Boston is already ahead of us!

I also kept the Mid Cambridge downzoning proposal in committee, as we are waiting to hear back from the Planning Board regarding an intermediate downzoning. The neighbors are trying to find a zoning district that prevents them from feeling overwhelmed by infill building. It's a challenge many in the city are facing, and it's why I'm looking into expanding side lot setback requirements to give people a little more breathing room.

Zoning can be an esoteric topic, but it is a very important one for shaping our neighborhoods. Zoning regulations set forth guidelines for what can be built in a neighborhood -- it's sometimes very different than what already exists. We need to craft zoning regulations that work with people's reasonable expectations for the future shape of their neighborhoods that also allow a reasonable and appropriate amount of change and development.