All interested members to join us for an update on the legislative and regulatory issues that have an impact on the way we practice architecture here in Massachusetts.

Our special guest speakers for this month are Jeff Morrissette and Joseph Giniewicz, the Town of Westford’s respective Assistant Town Manager of Land Use & Economic Development and Town Planner. Starting two years ago, with the goal of enacting zoning reform that would comply with the MBTA Communities Act, Mr. Morrissette and Giniewicz secured early buy-in from town leadership for a community-focused approach, leveraging the mandate to tackle challenges like commercial vacancies, housing options, improving the customer base, and tax burdens while engaging directly with various boards and committees. They formed an advisory group with diverse perspectives, enlisted planning consultants, and conducted multifaceted public engagement, including surveys, workshops, and focus groups, especially targeting seniors, adjusting their proposal based on feedback and securing support from multiple boards and committees.

The MBTA Communities Act required Westford to provide an increased zoning capacity of 924 units. The result of their effort was a 4 to 1 vote in favor of a zoning proposal that increased zoning capacity by almost 5,000 units. Mr. Morrissette and Giniewicz will present their experience as a best-practices guide for successfully navigating the local approval process.

As the sole committee of the Massachusetts chapter of AIA, the GAC's mission is to actively participate in the legislative and regulatory process and encourage public advocacy.

As advanced registration for the meeting is required, please select the link below:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meetin...

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.