Please vote Yes on Article 7
The zoning article passed last year in Hanover was more of a “one size fits all” article, which was inappropriate.
This year’s Article 7 is an attempt to pull back that article a bit by making development more appropriate. It still encourages duplexes and ADUs (Auxiliary Dwelling Units) to help alleviate the existing housing shortage in ALL residential zones. It promotes the development of existing multi-family zoned properties on-sewer and water which currently provides no housing units and it eliminates the introduction of 4-unit multi family structures on sub-par lots in ALL single family neighborhoods with sewer and water in the SR (single residence) zones.
Erecting sore thumb projects in single family neighborhoods does not enhance the town. We do encourage infill development but within reason. Construction should compliment the areas.
Duplexes add extra housing. The development and construction of new units will take time and should take into consideration the nature of the surrounding areas. Most neighborhoods have units that are student rentals. We need more than just student housing. People who work in town also need housing. Cramming in student housing does not answer that problem. The College is doing a good job of expanding housing options on campus.
Smart growth is the goal. We hope that downtown Hanover does not become an urban area. We are still a small, but growing town and we should expand intelligently. This is not just a student issue but also affects the long term residents. Students come and go. Most of us are here for the long haul.
There was little time last year to educate the community about the ramifications of the article that got passed. The realization is that it was too much. The goal is not to eliminate growth but to take a more intelligent and sensible approach to it. Please consider supporting Article 7.