Freetown Planning Board Approves Walnut Street Three-Lot Subdivision Over Abutter Objection

FREETOWN -- December 17, 2024, Freetown Planning Board unanimously approves Walnut Street subdivision while bracing for February ADU deadline. The board voted December 17 to approve a three-lot definitive subdivision at 11 Walnut Street, Map 211, Lot 45, represented by Robert Perzi of Mount Hope Engineering, over the objection of abutter Christine, who argued the proposed private road runs within a foot of her property and could damage tree roots. Board members said they found no setback requirement for private roads in town bylaws. The bulk of the meeting turned to the state's new accessory dwelling unit law, taking effect February 2, 2025, which the board chair said would require scrapping key provisions of the current bylaw, including owner-occupancy requirements, square footage caps below 900 feet, and extra parking mandates, with a replacement ordinance targeted for the June town meeting. The board also noted it faces a staffing vacancy after its outgoing administrator departs for a New Bedford medical coordinator position at the new year.