The Planning Board proposes to change the two Village District Boundaries – Cilleyville and Andover Villages. Voters will be asked to vote to approve these changes on the ballot on March 10, 2020. The Planning Board (PB) has worked for two years on these changes. After four public hearings, two (2) maps have been prepared. See maps above. The reasons for the changes are simple:

1. Both Villages have grown over the years as properties have changed through the Special Exception process.  Multifamily properties, small retail, and service businesses have been established in adjacent districts. The PB thinks it makes sense for those properties and adjacent properties to be made part of the revised Village districts that permit such uses. 

2. Permitted uses and lot sizes are different in the Village districts.

3. The Planning Board has been in general conversations about business and housing growth for the town. This is consistent with our desire to maintain the rural atmosphere while recognizing the need to provide opportunities for the town to grow.

4. It is time to expand and clarify the Village districts which are different than other areas in town. Village districts are more conducive to multi-family dwellings and small businesses.

5. The Town’s Master Plan states: “What is a Village Area? It is a compact area of small retail shops and service vendors, residences, multi-family units, schools, places of public assembly such as town halls and churches, and similar activities.” And, a priority states: “the village character of the village areas should be enhanced…”

6. Also, the Master Plan identifies several guiding principles as being important to our town. These include: maintain Andover’s small town and rural character with village centers; encourage commercial activity that builds on the regional recreation and tourism economy; and provide choices in housing types.

7. Commercial activity and housing types other than single family homes in any district except Village require a Special Exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment – which increases the time and expense of developing business activity or multi-family housing. The current shortage and expense of rental housing underlines the importance of providing places for that kind of housing without the burden of seeking a Special Exception.  The PB thinks expanding the Village districts encourages the kind of development and control the town desires.

8. The PB thinks riverfront lots can be accommodated and protected within the Village districts.  Expanding the Village districts will preserve the attractive qualities of our town and ensure orderly development.

All of us have a vested interest in thoughtfully preparing the Town for our future. Relevant documents and maps that show the existing and proposed changes to Village boundaries are available in the Town Office.