How do we balance the rights of people to do what they want with their property and the rights of residents to be able to control the character of their neighborhoods?

Balancing the rights of property owners with community standards is the work of democracy. Involvement of citizens, experts and legislatures is crucial.

Many committees and departments are involved in crafting zoning by-laws that balance these needs, including the following:

Select Board
Advisory Committee (to review Warrant Articles)
Advisory Subcommittee on Land Use Planning
Department of Planning and Community Development
Planning Board
Preservation Commission
Select Board Multifamily Planning Committee
Town Counsel
Town Meeting