Yarmouth’s zoning ordinance has not been updated in over 20 years. In the absence of uniform policy, contract zones (CZAs) are being used to rezone existing properties while owners “agree to the imposition of certain conditions or restrictions not generally imposed on other similarly zoned properties” (Chapter 701).

This mechanism allows for property owners to apply for rezoning, and the onus falls on neighbors to choose to support or stand in the way of the desires of their own neighbors.

What neighbor would want to see additional lots created and abutting their property? Asking residents to monitor one another’s property use, especially when one party is likely to reap huge financial rewards in our current real estate market, is untenable.

Yarmouth must stop one-off applications for rezoning, as well as projects with multiple exemptions, that serve to financially benefit a small portion of our community at the price of irreparably damaging relationships between neighbors.

The Town Council must serve the interest of our town and work to revise our zoning ordinance so that these decisions are not made by a partially staffed, appointed planning board and our councilors, but by a town vote. The decision to do otherwise leaves the potential for well-connected, savvy property owners to work the system to get their needs met and does not allow for a uniform and equitable application of law.

On May 20, the Town Council meets to vote on two CZAs. It is time for residents to speak up.

In community,

Sarah and Jeff Norsworthy
Yarmouth