Plymouth Considers Zoning Change for Major Retail Development
T.L. Edwards seeks to rezone 54 acres, potentially paving way for Costco
PLYMOUTH - January 21 - Plymouth's Select Board is considering several articles for Town Meeting, including a zoning change that could transform a 54-acre gravel processing facility into a major retail development, potentially including a Costco.
T.L. Edwards, owner of the property at the corner of Cherry Street and Commerce Way, is seeking to rezone the land from light industrial to mixed commerce. The change would allow for retail use while maintaining most existing industrial uses.
Lee Hartmann, Director of Planning and Development, presented the proposal to the Select Board on Jan. 21. "This is off of Route 44, one of the gateways to the town of Plymouth, and people are welcomed by this gravel facility," Hartman said. "Allowing retail use here is a far better option than the uses that are here now."
The Planning Board has already voted unanimously to support the zoning change.
Bill Hallisey, representing T.L. Edwards, told the Select Board that owner Terry Edwards, 80, wants to consolidate operations at his Avon plant. "He will not sell this to another company to do the same thing," Hallisey said. "His goal is to consolidate this with the Avon plant and make that far more economically sensible for him and at the same time capture the retail business that will be much more attractive here in Plymouth."
Hallisey said discussions have been held with retail operations like Costco, though no commitments have been made. He noted the change could bring significant tax benefits to Plymouth.
"At present, because T.L. Edwards is classified as a manufacturing corporation pursuant to 850 CMR 58.2, the Town of Plymouth realizes no personal property taxes from about the $10 million worth of equipment that is on that site," Hallisey explained.
Select Board member Charlie Bletzer expressed enthusiasm for the potential development. "This sounds like a no-brainer," he said. "The revenues that would bring in to all the businesses in that area and the businesses that it would attract too. It's just, if we can get this accomplished, this would be great."
The board voted unanimously to recommend Town Meeting approve the zoning change.
In other business, the Select Board heard an update on a suspected avian flu outbreak at Billington Sea.
Town Manager Derek Brindisi reported approximately 70 birds have died in the incident. While final test results are pending, officials believe the birds likely had avian influenza.
"We are highly suspect that these birds do have avian flu," Brindisi said. "They have all the telltale signs of avian flu, the symptoms."
The town mobilized a response team over the weekend, including public safety, health, communications and public works personnel. A contracted company removed the dead birds on Jan. 21.
Brindisi urged residents to take precautions, noting domestic cats and dogs are also susceptible to bird flu. The virus is expected to persist through early spring.
"We want folks to take the precautions necessary," he said. "We really want folks to contact us if you see a dead bird that you are suspicious of."
Residents should call 508-322-3339 to report suspicious bird deaths.
Bletzer praised the town's response, particularly Health Director Karen Keene. "She handled it unbelievable," Bletzer said, relaying feedback from a constituent. "He said she should get an accommodation with the way she handled things."
The board also heard updates on the downtown waterfront district, including plans for outdoor dining and sidewalk cleaning. Bletzer reported attending a productive meeting with nonprofit groups addressing social issues in Plymouth.
"We have so many resources out there," he said. "It's amazing that we have for our citizens."