Mattapoisett Planning Board — July 20, 2026

The Mattapoisett Planning Board met on July 20, 2026, to review a preliminary subdivision plan and continue work on the proposed Cottage Community Development Bylaw. The first item addressed a preliminary subdivision at 182 North Street (Kindred Estates, Map 20, Lot 18), presented by Matt Leone of Schneider Design and Engineers on behalf of applicant Stephen Cabral. Leone explained that due to updated wetland delineations from Ecosystem Solutions, the proposal was scaled back from four lots to three conventional lots accessed via a paper cul-de-sac and an 850-foot, 16-foot-wide common driveway off Shady Oak Drive. Because sign-offs had not yet been received from the fire chief, police chief, and other departments, the board voted 5-0-0 to continue the hearing to August 3, 2026.

The board then engaged in a lengthy discussion regarding the Cottage Community Development Bylaw ahead of the anticipated October 26, 2026 Fall Town Meeting. Members addressed comments submitted by board member Nate and emphasized the distinction between state-mandated low-income or Chapter 40B housing and compact, market-rate cottage-style starter and downsizer homes. Members and resident David McIntyre stressed the importance of extensive public outreach, visual presentations, and clarifying misconceptions that arose during the previous town meeting. The board agreed to schedule a formal public hearing on the bylaw for August 17, 2026, and noted that town administration is working to bring in an independent housing expert to deliver an educational presentation on affordable housing formats.

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