City of Methuen Master Plan

Methuen Master Plan 2007
ability to purchase locally-grown produce. The most recent example of this is the approved conversion
of Mann’s Orchards to a Target retail store and small residential subdivision. Although the City cannot,
through regulation, prevent farms from being converted to other uses, it can tailor its regulations to
encourage continued farm use and, in the event of a conversion, take measures to shape future uses that
will not prevent an eventual return to agriculture by the alteration of topography, degradation of soils,
etc. The City can also actively promote the use of tax incentives (Chapters 61A, 61B), purchase
agricultural preservation restrictions (APRs) 2 , and ease permitting procedures for accessory uses to assist
farmers in continuing to prosper in Methuen.
To stem the loss of open spaces, Methuen should be vigilant in tracking proposed conversions of
Chapter 61 land and consider acting on the right of first refusal option to purchase land that is highly
valued for its contribution to “rural, scenic, small-town Methuen.” In addition, the City should join the
majority of the Commonwealth’s communities in adopting a zoning provision for “open space
residential developments (OSRDs),” which require the preservation of open space in exchange for
flexibility in lot/home arrangement in a subdivision. The last time the City debated the merits of a
similar idea called “cluster zoning,” it decided against adoption for fear that an overall increase in
housing density would ensue. By contrast, the OSRD will not increase density beyond what is already
permitted in the district; rather, it will preserve large tracts of open space by allowing the same number
house lots to be laid out in a more efficient pattern.
Methuen’s historical legacy is critically important to its self-image, and is a unifying force among
community members. The City recently added a historic preservation specialist to its Community and
Economic Development staff, which has exponentially increased its capacity to implement
recommendations made in its Historic Preservation and Historic Landscape plans. Increasing
awareness of the City’s historical structures and records through the completion of visible restoration
work (such as the Library, Grey Court, the stone walls, etc.), event sponsorship and promotion (Festival
of Trees, Music Hall concerts, Grey Court concerts), and via educational forums will help to ensure that
these resources remain at the forefront of people’s minds. To further buoy support, the City should
consider how it might create incentives for preservation that could complement its regulatory efforts –
small matching grants programs, promotion of the State’s rehabilitation tax credit, and provision of
zoning relief for historic structures (by special permit) are some examples of efforts that might help
Methuen achieve even greater success in historic preservation.
Plan for Public Facilities, Including Strong Schools and Recreational Facilities
As it continues to add an average of about 180 housing units annually, the City must contend with the
increased demand placed upon its public facilities and services. Historically, Methuen has planned well
for impending growth – its new grammar (K-8) schools, renovated Library, and new parks and
recreational facilities pay testimony to past efforts. Each administration has kept the taxpayer in mind
as it balances residential growth by encouraging commercial and industrial development to offset
increases in homeowner tax bills.
At this moment in time, Methuen has at least three primary community facilities needing substantial
renovation or replacement: the High School, the Police Station, and the Central Fire Station.
Preliminary estimates for these projects are well over the $100 million mark. And while these projects
are recognized as critical, numerous other needs will need to be addressed in the relatively short term,
2 Methuen has a few APRs such as the one which exists on the former DeLucia farm in Pleasant Valley.
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