YOUR ZBA
The Holliston Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is formed under Massachusetts General Laws to assist residents, property owners, and businesses to resolve issues with the Holliston zoning By-laws.
The Board consists of five members, three full members (three year terms) and two alternate members (one year terms) appointed by the Board of Selectmen. The general number of meetings is one per month, usually the 3rd Thursday. More meetings may be called if they are required due to the number and/or the complexity of the applications.
The primary functions of the ZBA are to issue Use Permits to businesses that the Zoning By-law requires for operation, and Special Permits to homeowners whose houses were built before the current Intensity Regulations were put into effect. These permits allow the homeowner to modify and add on to their houses using the less strict regulations that were in effect at the time the house was constructed. The Board can also issue variances which permit uses or dimensional changes outside of the zoning By-law limits, if specific condition are met. Furthermore the Board accepts appeals to override decisions pertaining to zoning laws which were made by a Town employee or Board. Based on information supplied the Board can support or reverse the order.
Our goal is to accomplish these functions as simply, clearly and quickly as possible, ensuring full compliance with the laws.
To meet these goals, we need all of our members to participate. The ZBA has been running with all three full members and only one alternate member for some time. Should two of the members be unavailable for a meeting, the meeting has to be canceled since the law requires three members for a quorum.
It is an enjoyable and satisfying service to the town's people. No special skills are required, only the desire to help fellow towns people and businesses.
Anyone interested in more information, or to be considered for appointment please contact Henry Dellicker, ZBA chairman, at (508) 429-4244 or henrydellicker@gmail.com