Zoning Change for Aircraft Sales at Marshfield Airport Draws Rent Concerns ####

Key Points

  • Codifies aircraft sales as a permitted use within the Airport District
  • Corrects a zoning error that listed aircraft sales under the B2 business district
  • Prompted a debate over the town's lease revenue from the airport facility

Voters approved Article 25, which clarifies the town's zoning to allow aircraft sales and services specifically within the Airport District. Town Planner Greg Guimont explained that the use was previously mistakenly categorized under the B2 business district, where it was not practical. All it is doing is allowing the uses that are already there to actually continue, Guimont said.

The article sparked a secondary discussion regarding the revenue the town receives from the airport. Residents Joe Pavevich and Steve Lynch questioned if the expansion of allowed retail activities would result in higher rent for the town. While Town Counsel was unable to provide exact figures for the lease during the meeting, Town Accountant Lisa Meagher eventually confirmed that the airport lease generated $53,886 in fiscal year 2025. Despite the financial concerns, the zoning change passed by the required two-thirds majority.

Motion: The planning board moves the town vote to amend the Marshfield Town Code Division 3 zoning bylaw Article 5 use regulations chapters 305 5.04 04 table of use regulations as set forth in article 25.

Vote: Passed by 2/3 Majority