The Wakefield Zoning Ordinance
Proposed Extensive Revisions

Voting Day
March 14, 2006

·        One of the major purposes of the Major Subdivision Moratorium we approved last year was to revise our Zoning Ordinance.

·        Many Public Hearings held throughout the summer, fall and winter:  Large, well attended meetings with a broad spectrum of views.  Everyone had ample opportunity to be heard.

·        New Format:  Clearer, easier, more user friendly

·        Existing Zoning Ordinance was written for small, stable town

·        Controls Growth:  We are growing, like it or not, so we must ensure it is the type of growth we want

·        Preserves Rural Character:  Green space, village settings, farms, low density housing

·        Preserves the Environment:  Groundwater, forests, soil erosion, surface water

·        Protects our Lakes:  Safety, shoreline erosion, and water quality

·        Enhances Business and Commercial:  New jobs, more shopping convenience, increased revenue to town without raising taxes, yet keeps Rt. 16 green and tree-lined

·        Encourages Elderly Housing:  Generates revenue for the town without requiring us to raise taxes to build new schools or classrooms