Planners begin discussions on two new proposed town ordinances

by Mary Grow

China Planning Board members began discussion of two proposed new town ordinances at their July 9 meeting. Chairman Toni Wall expressed the hope that they would be ready for submission to town voters by the Nov. 5 state and federal election day.

One ordinance is tentatively titled a Mass Gathering Ordinance. The purpose is to regulate events that draw large crowds, to maximize safety and minimize risks and annoyances.

Board members had as a model an ordinance that Vassalboro voters rejected by a narrow margin in November 2021. Vassalboro officials prepared it because a resident had proposed hosting a country music show. It covers two types of topics, external effects and attendees’ health, safety and comfort.

The former includes things like requirements for notice to neighbors, not necessarily only direct abutters; traffic and parking management; and noise limits. The latter covers such issues as water supply, portable toilets and emergency response plans.

The second ordinance is a site review ordinance that Wall said would be the basis for reviewing non-residential development applications. Codes Officer Nicholas French said it would provide more specific definitions of criteria in current town ordinances.

Board members intend to continue discussion at their next meeting, scheduled for Tuesday evening, July 30 (postponed from the usual second Tuesday of the month).