Halifax Establishes Government Study Committee, Advances Zoning Changes

Board of Selectmen approves formation of committee to examine town structure, while zoning bylaw revisions progress

HALIFAX, MA - July 23 - The Halifax Board of Selectmen approved the formation of a Government Study Committee to review and potentially recommend changes to the town's governmental structure during their meeting on July 23. The board also reviewed and approved progress on comprehensive zoning bylaw revisions, with final recommendations for MBTA-related zoning changes expected at their next meeting.

The Government Study Committee will consist of seven members, including five voting members - one Selectman serving as chair and four at-large members - plus the town administrator and town council as non-voting members. The committee is tasked with examining the current structure of Halifax's government and may recommend changes such as expanding the Board of Selectmen or converting certain elected positions to appointed roles.

"I think that it's time for the town of Halifax to study itself and decide what direction it wants to head in," said Board of Selectmen Chairman John Bruno. "We've had, in the past, some discussion about expanding the Board of Selectmen, turning certain positions into appointed positions as opposed to elected positions."

Bruno emphasized the importance of conducting a comprehensive study rather than making piecemeal changes. "We don't do things piecemeal to make more conflicts than we already have," he said.

The board plans to post a call for talent bank forms online, giving residents until the end of August to submit applications for the at-large positions. They will review submissions and potentially make appointments at their September meeting.

Regarding zoning changes, the board reviewed progress made by the Zoning Bylaw Review Committee, which has been working for nearly a year on comprehensive revisions. The committee's efforts include reorganization, consolidation of definitions, and changes to committee responsibilities throughout the zoning bylaws.

A key focus of the revisions is addressing MBTA-related zoning requirements, which must be completed by the end of the year. Town Administrator Cody Haddad reported that the committee is using a model bylaw and has received feedback from state authorities.

"We plan to have [the MBTA zoning changes] back before Selectmen and then continue with that process," Haddad said. He added that a special town meeting is anticipated before year-end to vote on the proposed zoning changes.

The board emphasized the importance of public engagement in the zoning revision process. Plans include working with the Old Colony Planning Council, state representatives, and senators to hold public forums and workshops explaining the changes to residents.

"We want to make sure everyone understands that and get the information out and education out to everyone as much in advance of town meeting as we can," Haddad stated.

The extensive nature of the zoning revisions was highlighted by Bruno, who noted, "We went through every single part of this bylaw." He commended the committee's hard work, including contributions from the building commissioner and town administrator.