Milford commission continues work on open‑space density bonus and groundwater overlay; Planning Board joint meeting set for July

The Milford Conservation Commission continued its review of an open‑space conservation overlay district and related density‑bonus provisions and agreed to advance a groundwater protection overlay for joint consideration with the Planning Board.

Members described density‑bonus design choices under consideration, including whether bonuses should be a flat percentage of allowed units (members cited 20% as an example used in other towns) or should be tailored to project type and site constraints. Commissioners emphasized the need to examine how sewer and water infrastructure intersects zoning boundaries — several members noted sewer and water currently stop at the edge of the R district, which would affect what higher density options developers could support without extending infrastructure.

The commission said it will present the groundwater protection overlay and related materials to the Planning Board at a joint meeting currently scheduled for July 8 so the two bodies can review public input and a summary of earlier housing workshops. Members asked staff to compile comparative examples from other towns, maps showing existing infrastructure, and the summary of public comments the Planning Board will provide. The commission also said it will submit materials to state agencies and Fish & Game as appropriate for review of conservation and wetland impacts.

No ordinance or zoning changes were adopted at the meeting; members described the work as ongoing and requested that staff circulate the most recent packet and maps ahead of the joint meeting.