The Milton Planning Board committed $44,200 toward a multi-phase zoning recodification project during their April 23rd meeting, signaling a major push to overhaul town bylaws that officials say are increasingly difficult to interpret. The funding, which draws from both current and anticipated fiscal year 2027 accounts, will support an initial audit and diagnostic of Milton’s zoning landscape by KP Law. Planning Director Liz Manning explained that while the full drafting phase could eventually exceed the current budget, starting with a targeted approach is essential. Phase 1 is probably worth the money because it covers stakeholders and concerns relative to interpretation and enforcement, Manning said. Member Jim Davis advocated for a fiscally conservative start to the project, noting, We should approve enough to accomplish the low total of $44,200. We approve the low total until we know we need more. That way we aren't doing it one step at a time, but we are being responsible. Motion Made by M. Oldfield to move forward with the recodification contract in the amount of $44,200. Motion Passed (4-0).

The meeting was also marked by sharp criticism directed at the Select Board over a perceived lack of collaboration regarding the library parking Request for Proposals (RFP). Member Margaret Oldfield expressed deep frustration that a memo outlining the Planning Board’s concerns was apparently overlooked by the Select Board during their recent deliberations. I watched the Select Board meeting on the 14th. They didn't even read our memo. They didn't take into consideration any of our comments, Oldfield said. There was no collaboration. They just said, 'Let's go ahead with the RFP.' It's disappointing. Davis echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that residents expect inter-board cooperation. The boards are there to look after the interests of the residents, not the board itself. I think it's right to be frustrated, he remarked, suggesting that a parking expansion near the police station remains a viable alternative that was dismissed too quickly.

As the town prepares for Annual Town Meeting, the board finalized a small but significant amendment to the sign bylaw. The change extends the Building Commissioner’s review window from seven days to 30 days to ensure applications are properly vetted before reaching the Sign Review Committee. Manning credited resident Larry Johnson for developing a compliance flowchart to help voters understand the update. Motion Made by M. Oldfield to amend Article 42 to change the review period from 7 days to 30 days. Motion Passed (4-0). In other administrative business, the board approved a modified property plan for 120 Highland Street. Surveyor Jim explained that the updated survey corrected minor discrepancies in lot area and monumentation to better accommodate future home construction. Motion Made by S. Fahy to approve the current ANR for 120 Highland Street. Motion Passed (4-0).

During the staff report, Pavante from the planning department provided updates on the Open Space and Recreation Plan, prompting a debate over community outreach strategies. Oldfield raised concerns regarding the inclusion of Connect Milton as a focus group, questioning the group's funding and political leanings. I have concerns about including them in official outreach because it's my understanding they are funded by an out-of-state organization in California and have a political focus, Oldfield said, suggesting that groups like the League of Women Voters be prioritized instead. Pavante noted they are open to recommendations and aim to reflect community values. The board also requested that the town's language access plan specifically account for American Sign Language (ASL) users, following a suggestion from Oldfield.

The meeting concluded with an emotional farewell to Jim Davis, who served his final meeting on the board. Chair Meredith Hall presented a card from a Milton High School student thanking Davis for his service and highlighting the importance of zoning education. You jumped in from day one and were so thoughtful with the questions you asked and your contribution, especially with the challenges of the MBTA zoning, Hall told Davis. Hall emphasized the weight of the board's work on the next generation, stating, One thing I'm taking away from the Planning Board is that your reputation is your word. When you're on a board like this, keep everything at the meetings, and a better result will come of it. Davis thanked his colleagues and residents as the board transitioned to a celebratory cake brought by Member Sean Fahy, who told Davis, You are a new friend for me, but you can't shake me now, buddy.