Planning Board continues two hearings to October
Planning Board · Meeting of September 8, 2026
West Newbury Planning Board pushes two contested Sarkis projects into October. Interim Town Planner Denise McClure told the board a proposed 26-unit Open Space Preservation Development at 187 Main Street must provide 2.6 affordable units under inclusionary zoning and resolve a mismatch in which the site's open space is 74 percent wetlands versus 51 percent for the full parcel. Applicant John T.
Sarkis and Clerk Raymond Cook also debated gas heating, with Sarkis warning "I sort of upset a percentage of my clientele" without it. On a separate Ash Street special permit, Cook read a statement recommending Sarkis withdraw both requests, saying "it is not what West Newbury zoning intended," citing wetlands blocking legal access to a proposed reduced-frontage lot. Both hearings continue October 6 at 7:15 p.m.; the board also approved its April 21 minutes as amended.
In the full story:
- Who Was There
- Organizations And Documents Referenced
- The complete report — 2,597 words
Source: the Planning Board meeting of September 8, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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