The Rockport Planning Board discussed potentially drafting an ordinance that would require buildings that have commercial uses on the first floor in the downtown district to maintain those commercial uses on at least that first floor. Mixed-uses (residential on the upper floors and commercial on the first floor) would be allowed.
Planning Board Denise Connelly member first proposed the potential ordinance, and Planning Board Chair Jason Shaw cited the need to maintain the commercial viability of the first floor on Bearskin Neck.”
The Planning Board said the next step is to reach out to the Rockport Planning Department for guidance on drafting the ordinance. Before implementation, Rockport residents must approve the proposed requirement at a future Town Meeting.
