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8819 C_ZONING AMEND. - SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS - MAYOR COHEN8�Iq c Out & About OUR CALENDAR SECTION is intended to promote free events, or those that directly affect a voluntoer-driven organization. Paid events that are not deemed benefits d0 not quaiifp. Non -charitable events that charge the public for profit are not allowed as we consider that paid advertising. The deadline to submit calendar items is Monday at noon. Send to the Agawam Advertiser News at aanaturley.catrt, fax to 413-786-8457, or mail to Turley Publications, 24 Water St., Palmer, MA 01069, We usually pant at least one week prior to an event. The listings should be brief with only time, date, location, activity exp(anation and contact information. Saturday, Oct, 21 OPEN HOUSE AT THE AGAWAM FIRE DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS at 800 Main St., Agawam from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. will feature chili cook -off, 'Jaws of Life" demonstration, fire safety education and an appearance by "Blaze" the fire safety Dalmatian. CHICKEN AND BISCUIT SUPPER at Agawam Congrega- tional Church, 745 Main St., Agawam at 5:30 p.m. To make a reservation, call 413-786-7111. A FOOD, WINE, AND BEER TASTING from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Basketball Hall of Fame, 1000 Hall of Fame Ave., Springfield. $35 per person includes food, wine, beer, spirits and admission to see Hall of Fame exhibits. For tickets, call 413-519-0457, 413-788-8749 or email longmeadowunico@gmail.com. FALL RUMMAGE SALE at Grace Lutheran Church, Route 20 in West Springfield, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Clothing, housewares and small furniture will be available. Sunday, Oct, 22 BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS on the front lawn of the Agawam Congregational Church, 745 Main St., Aga- wam at 3 p.m. All are welcome to bring their animals and family pets. Friday, Oct. 27 AN EVENING OF CANDLEUGHT sponsored by the Aga- wam Historical Association at the Thomas Smith House, 251 N. West St., Feeding Hills: Hearth -cooked soup and cornbread will bp.served. Free and open to the public. Sunday, Oct. 29 THE ANNUAL HARVEST BREAKFAST hosted by the Agawam Lions Club at the "Den" on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition. Tickets are $5 for adults; .$3 for children 10 and under and may be purchased at the door or from any Lions Club member. ' Friday, Nov. 3 THE44W SEASON OF THE ACC'S APPLAUSE SERIES continues at 7 p.m. when actors Lynne McKenney Lydick and Richard Clark retum with their presentation of scenes from "The Lion in;Winter" and "Visitor from New York" at the Agawam Senior Canter, 954 Main St. Free and open to.the public..Docrs open .at6:15 p.m. Saturday, Nov 4 HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR at St. Catherine of Siena Parish Center, 1023 ParkerSt., Springfield from 9 a.m;ta 4 p.m. Area crafters, game room, hot lunch and more. Admission is free. October 19, 2C117 I AGAWAM ADVERSER NEWS I Page 15 -- Agawam Senior Center Fitness Room is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8:45 p.m Lunch Menu Monday, Oct. 23: Ziti with sausage, peppers and onions, homemade tomato sauce, spring salad, fresh pear. Tuesday, Oct. 24: Roast pork with apple cranberry stuffing, applesauce, Billed carrots, mixed fruit. Wednesday, Oct 25: Meat tacos in a soft shell with lettuce, tomatoes, onions and cheese, Mexican rice with red and green peppers and beans, baked good. Tbursday, Oct 26: Barbecue chicken, warm potato and veggie salad, pudding. Friday, Oet 27: Broccoli -and cheddar quiche, Cae- sar salad, peaches. Calendar of Events Monday, Oct 23: 8 a,m., weight training, yoga; 9:30 a.m., sixweek crochet class, line dancing; 11:30 a,m., Gentle Yoga;1 p.m., writing club, Bingo. a cost of $8 for adults, $4 for children. The public is welcome. Saturday, Nov. 11 SACRED HEART CHURCH CHR STMAS BAZAAR from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Parish Center, 1061 Springfield St., Feeding Hills. Crafters, vendors, bake table, snack bar and raffle. Sunday, Nov 12 THE WEST SPRINGFIELD COIN CLUB will meet at 7 p.m. at the Mittineague Congregational Church, 1840 Westfield St., West Springfield. A special coin topic will he presented and discussed. Refreshments available. Guests welcome. For more information, call Peter Se- tian at 413-596-9871. Saturday, Nov.18 ANNUAL CHRIST5MAS CRAFT FAIR AND BAKE SALE from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and 8:30 a.m. to noon tomorrow in Marion Hall at Our Lady of the take Church, 224 Sheep Pasture Road, Southwick. The hall is handi- cap -accessible. Free parking and admission. ONGOING AGAWAM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 459 Mill St., Agawam, offers a free "Crochet Club' the first and third Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. All are in- vited to join, including men and women and beginners to experienced crocheters. Drop -ins welcome. Hooks and yam available if needed. For more information, call 413-786-7991. THE AGAWAM ST. PATRICK COMMITTEE meets the second Wednesday of each month, September through dune, at 6:30 p.m. in the Pekoe Conference Room at the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper St. For infor- malion on how to join, call Vera Conway at 413-786- 3247 or email Rosemary Sandiin at rosemarysandlin@ gmail,com. THE FARMERS' MARKET AT STCC will be open for bus! - Wednesday, Nov. 8 ness each Wednesday from Sept. 6 through Dec. 13 THE ELM-BELCHFR MASONIC LODGE, 53 River St., between Buildings 2 and 13. Vendors will offer goods Agawam offers an all -you -can -eat spaghetti supper at for sale between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m, Free parking is available. 7besday, Oct 24. 9 a.m.-noon, annual Health Expo; 9 a.m., sewing class; noon, ladies onNy W Iiards;12:30 p.m., mah jongg; I p.m., Mexican Train Game; 4:30 p.m., yoga; 6 p.m., beginner line dance.. Wednesday, Oct. 25: 8 am., weight training, yoga; 9:30 a.m., Gentle Yoga; 11 a.m., Tai Chi;12:30 p.m., bridge; 1 p.m., ballroom lessons, Scrabble; 1:30 p.m., Golden Agers Chapter 1 meeting; 5:30 p.m., Zumba Gold, Thursday, Oct 26: 9 a.m., exercise; 9:30 a.m., quilting; 10 a.m., line dancing; 10:30 a.m., Reiki available ($10); 12:30 p.m., bridge; 1 p.m., pitch, open art class, Mexican Train Game; 2 p.m., Melody Band practice; 4 p.m., yoga; 6:30 p.m., pitch, Can- cer Support group meeting. Friday, Oct V. 8 a.m., yoga; 9:15 am., Let's Paint; 9:30 a.m., Halloween candy -making (dining room); 10 a.m., absolute beginner line dance (new class); noon, canasta; 1 pm-, pitch, cribbage; 4 p.m., card games; 6:30 p.m., line dance class. . Public hearing Weds. for F.H. Center The state Department of Transporta- tion will hold,a design public hearing to discuss the proposed Route 187 at Route 57 intersection improvement project in Agawam on Wednesday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m., at the Agawam Senior Center. All are invited to learn more about the planned roadwork in Feeding Hills Center, the intersection of Springfield, Southwick, and North and South Westfield streets. The Senior Center is at 954 Main SL, Agawam. Reconstruction of the intersection is expected to include additional au dbary and wider lanes; improved lane mark- ings. and signing; improvements to the Granger School pickup and dropoffareas; and revised signal phasing and tinting. Pedestrian improvements and bicycle accommodations consisting of a five-foot bicycle lane have been provided in accor- dance with applicable design guides. Written views received by MassDOT up to five days prior to the date of the hearing shall be displayed for public in- spection and copying at the hearing. Plans will be on display one-half hour before the hearing begins, with an engi- neer in attendance to answer questions regarding this project. Written statements may be submitted to Patricia Leavenworth, P.E., Chief En- gineer, MassDOT, 10. Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116, Attn: Roadway Project Man- agement, Project File No. 604203. Submis- sions will also be accepted at the hearing. Mailed statements and exhibits must be postmarked within 10 business days of the public hearing. Project inquiries may be emailed to dot.feedback highway@ state mains. 1 12 3 4 5 a 7 6 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 1 1s 20 2122 242626 27 28 29 30 1 33 34 35 B 3 39 i 42 43 44 45 46 4 as 1 52 53 54- 56. 60 61 62 64 85 67 88 69 CLUES ACROSS .41. Coastal region of. 68. Regenerate 32. Papier--. art 1. Syrian city China 69. Plaster. material .5. Secret collection 42. Town in Czech 33. Hmong 10. Mother Republic CLUES IROWN 34. Uneven 14, Type of radar (abbr.) 43. Peter Giiffin's 1. Mad Men" actor Jon 36. Resinous secretion 15, Trio daughter 2. Samoan capital 37. Pocketbook lb. 3elly-like algae . 44. Men proud of their 3. Singer Anthony 39. Political action substance masculinity 4- Sign of the Zodiac committee 17, Malaysian coastal city 45.0w-ti= Chinese: 5. Short-term memory 40. Health care for the 18..,_ Christipas! -dynasty 6. Larcenies aged t9. Bleak 46. Not pleased 7. Side -neck turtle. 41. Metro Goldwyn 20. Late Republic Roman 47. Maly _, cosmedu 8. Blissful film company poet 48. Midway between east 9. - you!. 43. A gossip 22. Supervises flying and southeast 10. Species of macaque 44. When: wrestlers work 23. Long, low sounds 49. Reflected 11. North -central Indian 46, -,_ Squad 24. Seven children born 52. Derived from city 47. Self-defense at once 55. US Treasury title 12, Commou street name 49. Muslim brigands 27, Tyrion Lannister's (abbr.) 13. Weaponry 50. Saudi Arabian island nickname 56. Spiritual leader 21. Counsels 51, Goliath's foe 30. Moon crater 60. Dismounted 23. _ student: doctor- 52' re Hwtfui mark 31. Concealed 61. Isaac's mother (Bib.) to -be 53, Wings 32. Woman (French) 63. Southern constellation 25. A bachelor has one 54. Beget 35. Shipped 64. Not often found 26. Women's - 57. Second Greek letter . 37• Bahies need one 65. Extremely angry movement , 58; Blue mold cheese 38, Two 66. Individual article 27. Leaders 59. Unst -stressed 39. Book of maps . 67. They congregate at 28. Chinese sea goddess . 61. Tide of respect 40. A partner to cheese hives 29. Caps of mushmams Q. Chop or cut . CROSSWORD a I ON z Page 16 1 'AGAWAM ADVERTISER NEWS I October 19, 2017 Public Notices. LEGAL NOTICE FEEDING HILLS SELF STORAGE, INC. SELF STORAGE FACILITY AUCTION SALE Self Storage Facility Operator's Sale for non pay- ment of ,Storage Charges pursuant to the power of sale contained in M.G.L. Chapter 105A, Section 4. The following property will be sold. at Public Auction at 10:00 A.M. on November 2, 2017 online, on W W W. STORAGETREASURES. COM. All household goods, tools, furniture, and mis- cellany held for Kathleen Morrison in a storage unit. Sale per order of Feeding Hills Self Storage. Tel: 413- 786-0009. Terms: Cash. Unit sold by entirety. Sale is sub- ject to postponement and/or cancellation. http://www.steragetrea- sures-co"L 10119, 10/26/17 DEPARTMENT OF improvements at the interses- TRANSPORTATION — tion of Routes 187 and 57 in HIGHWAY DIVISION Agawam, including geomet- NOTICE OF A rical improvements; addition - PUBLIC HEARING al auxiliary and wider lanes; Project File No. 604203 improved lane usage mark - A Design Public Hearing ings and signing; improve - will be held by MassDOT to ments to the Granger School discuss the proposed Route pick-up and drop-off areas; 187 at Route 57 intersec- and revised signal phas- tion improvement project in ing and timing. Pedestrian Agawam, MA. improvements and bicycle WHERE: accommodations consisting Agawam Senior Center of a 5' bicycle Iane have been 954 Main Street provided in accordance with Agawam, MA 01001 applicable design guides. WHEN: A secure right-of-way is Wednesday, necessary for this project, October 25, 2017 Acquisitions in fee and per - at 7:00PM manent or temporary ease - PURPOSE: The pur- meats may be required. The pose of this hearing is to Town of Agawam is respon- provide the public with the sible for acquiring all need - opportunity to become fully ed rights in private or public acquainted with the proposed lands. MassDOT's policy Route 187 at Route 57 inter- concerning land acquisitions section improvement proj- will be discussed at this hear- ect. All views and comments ing, made at the hearing will be Written views received by reviewed and considered to MassDOT subsequent to the the maximum extent possi- date of this notice and up to ble. five (5) days prior to the date THE COMMONWEALTH PROPOSAL: The pro- of the hearing shall be dis OF MASSACHUSETTS posed project consists of played for public inspection MASSACHUSETTS traffic signal and intersection and copying at the time and WE'VE EXPANDED OUR WEB SITE UBLIC NOTICES. ARE NOW ONLINE Email au Access archives and Find a quick link to the state of Masachwetts' notices to digital tear sheets by 3 public notice web site to seareh all notices in notioes*wleycom - 2 newspaper title. Massachusetts newspapers. Public nowe deadlines are Martdays at croon, Fridays now for lttonday holidays. date listed above. Plans will be on display one-half hour before the hearing begins, with an engineer in atten- dance to answer questions regarding this project. A project handout will be made available on the MassDOT website listed below. Written statements and other exhibits in place of, or in addition to, oral state- ments made at the Public Hearing regarding the pro- posed undertaking are to be submitted to Patricia A. Leavenworth, P.E., Chief Engineer, MassDM 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 021.16, Attention: Roadway Project Management, Project File No, 604203. Such submis- sions will also be accepted at the hearing. Mailed state- ments and exhibits intended for inclusion in the public hearing transcript must be postmarked within ten (10) business days of this Public Hearing. Project inquiries may be emailed to dotfeed- back.highway@state.ma.us This location is accessi- ble to people with disabili- ties. MassDOT provides reasonable accommodations andlor language assistance free of charge upon request (including but not limited to interpreters in American Sign Language and lan- guages other than English, open or closed captioning for videos, assistive lis- tening devices and alter- nate material formats, such as audio tapes, Braille and Iarge print), as available, For accommodation or language assistance, please contact Waterman requesting that: MassDOT's Chief Diversity Brenda Lee Waterman be and Civil Rights Officer by allowed to change his/her/ phone (857-368-8580), fax their name as follows: (857-368-0602), TTDITTY Brenda Lee Bailey (857-368-0603) or by email If you desire to object (MassDOT.CivilRights@ thereto, you or your attorney dot.state.ma.us). Requests must file a written appear - should be made as soon as ance in said Court at: Spring - possible prior to the meet- Geld on or before ten o'clock ing, and for more difficult to in the morning (10:00 a.m.) arrange services including on: 11/10/2017 sign -language, CART or lan- WITNESS, Hon. guage translation or inter- Barbara M Hyland, First pretation, requests should be Justice of this Court. made at Ieast ten (10) busi- Date: October 12, 2017 ness days before the meeting. Suzanne T. Seguin In case of inclement Register of Probate weather, hearing cancellation 10/19/17 announcements will be post- ed on the internet at http:// www.massdot.state.ma.us/ Highway/ JONATHAN GULLIVER ACTING HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATOR PATRICIA A. LEAVENWORTH, P.E. CHIEF ENGINEER 10/12, 10/19/17 Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Hampden Probate and Family Court 50 State Street Springfield, MA .01103 (413)748-7758 Docket No. HD17CO220CA In the matter of- - Brenda Lee Waterman Of: Agawam, MA NOTICE OF PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME To all persons interested in petition described: A petition has been presented by Brenda L LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a pub- lic hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA_ The pur- pose of this hearing will . be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. , BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paieologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board 10/19, 10/26/17 0 • • s • • r • • • • • N 0 A • • w • 0 ! • • Coznwaun=YExrento . T-Iolida Event Should Be Non -Profit ' & Open to the Public Contact name & phone number for more information r LEGAL NC TOWN OF A( PLA'—NN'TNG l Was v (W.:, The Agawam Planning Board swill hold a public hey PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Stn hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor CohenUb "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A cop} iUi��Q�� Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:3( LDW ' Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, VIA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10I26117) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNPG BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston Agawam Massachusetts Office of the Mayor 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA 01001 mayor@agawam.ma.us Richard A Cohen Mayor October 12, 2017 Dear Council, Tel: 413-786-4520 Fax: 413-786-9927 I have filed TOR-2017-11 "An Ordinance to Amend the Code of the Town of Agawam Zoning Ordinances to Add Solar Energy Systems." As you all know, this is the third such solar ordinance filed this year. There are two substantial changes included in TOR-2017-11. The definition of a Commercial Ground Mounted Solar Energy System with the size changes from one (1) acre to two (2) acres under § 1M149. And location is amended to prohibit a Commercial Ground Mounted Solar Energy System in an agricultural, residential or business zone under § 180-150 (b). The prohibition in an agricultural zone was recently debated by your body at a public hearing and adopted by a unanimous vote. And the increase in project size balances the interests of the Town and its citizenry while reflecting the reality of possible project size based on our multiple contacts with developer over the last nine months. The Town continues to receive regular inquiries from solar project developers from around the country. And the potential sites are all over Agawam. Neighborhoods across Town remain exposed to the possibility of very large solar projects getting developed in their backyards. The potential impact of Commercial Ground Mounted Solar Energy Systems is too great to ignore. For the best Interest of the Town, I strongly urge you to take action and pass a solar ordinance to provide clarity for the residents of our Town, the department heads involved in project development and for any potential developers. The potential impact to the Town is too great to ignore. Sincerely, Richard A Cohen, Mayor TOIL-2017-11 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF AGAWAM ;BONING ORDINANCES TO ADD SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS (Sponsored by Mayor Richard A Cohen) WHEREAS, the Massachusetts State Legislature enacted legislation permitting the development, construction, and operation of solar photovoltaic installations; and WHEREAS, Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40A Section i prohibits a local municipality from unreasonably regulating solar access but does permit reasonable regulation; and WHEREAS, MGL Chapter 40A, Section 9B permits local municipalities through their zoning and ordinance bylaws to protect solar access through site plan reviews; and WHEREAS, The Department of Energy Resources under the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs has defined large scale ground mounted solar photovoltaic systems as 40,000 square feet or greater; and WHEREAS, the attached proposed ordinance is necessary to protect the public health, safety; and welfare; and WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the Town of Agawam to amend the Code of the Town of Agawam to add Solar Energy Systems. NOW THEREFORE, the Agawam City Council hereby resolves, ordains and amends and enacts the attached Article XXI entitled Solar Energy Systems to be inserted into the Code of the Town of Agawam. DATED THIS DAY OF .2017. PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL .lames P. Cichetti, President APPROYED 4S TO FORM AND LEGALITY Patrick M. Toney, Solicitor ['age I of 10 ARTICLE XXI: SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS §190-146 Purpose The purpose of this ordinance is to promote the reasonable regulation of solar energy systems including commercial ground mounted solar energy installations by providing standards for the placement, design, construction, operation, monitoring, modification and removal of such installations that address public health, safety, and welfare and minimizes impacts on scenic, natural and historic resources and provides adequate financial assurance for the eventual decommissioning of such installations. §18047 Definitions BuiIdin =-inte grated solar energyeneEgy system. A solar energy system that is directly incorporated into the building by replacing typical building materials. Commercial Ground -mounted solar enemy system, A large scale commercial solar energy system that is installed onto the ground directly or by means of brackets or poles. Roof -mounted solar energy system. A solar energy system mounted to a house or other building. §180-48 Solar Energy Systems Building -integrated solar energy systems and Roof -mounted solar energy systems are allowable as an accessory use in all zoning districts, subject to the following requirements. 1. Height. Roof -mounted solar energy systems shall not project beyond three feet above the peak of the roof and shall not be more than three feet above the roof surface to which they are attached. 2. Setback. Roof -mounted solar energy systems shall comply with all building setbacks in the applicable: zoning district and shall not extend beyond the exterior perimeter of the building on which the system is mounted. 3. Coverage. Roof -mounted solar energy systems shall not cover more than eighty percent of the total area of the roof. 4. Exempt. Building integrated solar energy systems are exempt from the requirements of this section and shall be regulated as any other building element. 5. Certifications. Roof -mounted and Building -integrated solar energy system components shall be certified by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation. The Page 2 of 10 town reserves the right to deny a building pennit for proposed solar energy systems deemed to have inadequate certification. 6. Aesthetics. All Roof -mounted and Building -integrated solar energy systems shall use colors that blend with the color of the roof or other structures. Reflection angles from collector surfaces shall be oriented so as not to interfere with the use and enjoyment of other properties. Where necessary, screening may be required to address glare. §180-149 Commercial Ground Mounted Solar Energy System This balance of this ordinance shall apply to commercial ground -mounted solar energy systems (Commercial Ground Mounted Solar) installations measuring two (2) acres and larger. §180-150 General Requirements for All Solar Power General Installations a. Compliance with Laws, Ordinances and Regulations The construction and operation of all Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall be consistent with all applicable local, state and federal requirements, including but not limited to all applicable safety, construction, electrical, and communications requirements. All buildings and fixtures forming part of a Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall be constructed in accordance with the state building code and any other applicable state and federal laws. b. Location Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall be allowed as a matter of right in any industrial zone. No Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall be constructed or installed in any agricultural, residential or business zone. c. Building Permit No Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall be constructed, installed or modified as provided in this ordinance without first obtaining a building permit. §180-151 Site Plan Review All Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall undergo site plan review as outlined in §180-13 of the Code of the Town of Agawam prior to construction, installation or modification of the facility as provided in this ordinance. The total area of Commercial Ground Mounted Solar structures shall include the areas where the solar panels are installed, all appurtenant and accessory buildings, access roads, landscaping and visual screening elements. Page 3 of 10 Required Documents In addition to the required site plan content described in §180-13 of the Code of the Town of Agawam, the project proponent shall provide the following additional documents and information to the Planning Board, The Planning Board may waive any of these requirements as it deems appropriate. a. A site plain showing: i. property lines and physical features, including roads for the project site, wetlands, wildlife corridors and other relevant features; ii. location and approximate height of existing and proposed tree cover, including any trees on public property that are approximated to be seventy-five years and older or with a diameter of thirty-six inches or greater; W. proposed changes to the site, including proposed roads, grading, vegetation clearing and planting, parking areas, exterior lighting, screening vegetation and all structures; iv. elevations of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation including the proposed layout of the system and any potential shading from structures and vegetation, including those on abutting properties; V. a three -line electrical diagram detailing the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation, associated components, and electrical interconnection methods, with all national electrical code compliant disconnects and overcurrent devices; vi. documentation of the major system components to be used, including the photovoltaic panels, mounting system and inverter; vii. name, address, and contact information for the proposed system installer; viii, name, address, and contact information for the project proponent, as well as, all co -proponents and property owners, if any; ix. the name and contact information of any agents representing the project proponent; X. documentation of actual or proposed access and control of the project site; Xi. an operation and maintenance plan for the proposed project; Page 4of10 xii. the location of active farmland and prime farmland soils, wetlands, permanently protected open space, priority habitat Areas and critical natural landscape core habitat areas as set forth by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) and "important Wildlife Habitat" mapped by the Massachusetts DEP; and xiii. locations of any local or national historic districts. b. Proof of property and liability insurance consistent with industry standards for the proposed facility; C. Description of financial surety consistent with this ordinance; and d. A public outreach plan, including a project development timeline, which indicates how the project proponent will inform and educate abutters and the community about the project. All plans shall be prepared, stamped and signed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. §180-1152 Site Control, Operation and Maintenance Plan, and Utility Notification a. The project proponent shall submit documentation of actual or proposed access and control of the project site sufficient to allow for the construction and operation of the proposed Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation. b. The project proponent shall submit a plan for the operation and maintenance of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation, which shall include measures for maintaining safe access to the installation, storm water controls, as well as, general procedures for operational maintenance of the installation. C. The project proponent shall submit evidence that the utility company that operates the electrical distribution system grid where the installation is to be located has been informed of the proposed Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation. Off -grid Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall be exempt from this requirement. §180-153 Dimension and Density Requirements a. Setback and height Requirements The setbacks for Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations, including appurtenant structures and parking areas, shall be at least fifty (50) feet from any property boundary. The setback areas shall not be included in the calculation of the size of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation, The height of any Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation or any appurtenant structure Page 5 of 10 shall comply with the height requirements contained in the Code of the "Town of Agawam for the zone in which the installation is located. b. Lot Coverage The lot coverage requirements of §180-58 of the Code of the Town of Agawam shall not apply to Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations_ c. Appurtenant Structure All appurtenant structures to Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall comply with the requirements of the Code of the Town of Agawam. All such appurtenant structures include, but are not limited to, equipment shelters, storage facilities, transformers, and substations. §180-154 Design, Safety, and Environmental Standards a, Lighting Lighting of Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall be consistent with local, state and federal law. Lighting of other parts of the installation, such as appurtenant structures, shall be limited to that required for safety and operational purposes, and shall be reasonably shielded from abutting properties. Where feasible, lighting of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall be directed downward and shall incorporate all reasonable measures to reduce light pollution. b. Signage Any signs on Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations and property shall comply with Article XIII of the Code of the Town of Agawam. A sign shall be required which shall identify the owner and provide a 24-hour emergency contact phone number. Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall not be used for displaying any advertising except for reasonable identification of the manufacturer or operator of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation. C. Utility Connections Reasonable efforts, as determined by the Planning Board during the site plan review, shall be made to place all utility connections from the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation underground, depending on appropriate soil conditions, shape, and topography of the site and any requirements of the utility provider. Electrical transformers for utility interconnections may be above ground if required by the utility provider. d. Landscaping All land associated with the Cormnercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall be covered and grown in natural vegetation. All ground surface areas beneath Page 6 of 10 solar arrays and setback areas shall be pervious to maximize on -site infiltration of storm water. Impervious paving of areas beneath solar arrays is prohibited. To the greatest extent possible, a diversity of plant species shall be used, with preference given to species that are native to New England. Herbicides shall be applied only by properly licensed personnel in conformance with all applicable state and federal laws. C. Parking and access Reasonable on -site parking is required for vehicles that will service the installation only. f. Visual Impact Mitigation The plan for a Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall be designed to maximize the preservation of on -site and abutting natural and developed features. In undeveloped areas, existing vegetation shall be retained to the greatest extent possible, especially where such vegetation provides a benefit to the natural environment. In developed areas, the design of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall consider and incorporate contextual landscaping and landscape amenities that complement the physical features of the site and abutting properties. Whenever reasonable, structures should be screened from view by vegetation and/or joined or clustered to avoid adverse visual impacts and be architecturally compatible with each other. Vegetation shall be of varieties native to New England. Vegetative screening shall reach a mature form to effectively screen the installation within five years of installation. The mature height of the vegetated screening shall be such that the installation's structures are not apparent to a person upon, any public road and viewing the installation from a height of eight (8) feet. Planting of the vegetative screening shall be completed prior to final approval of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation by the Building Inspector. g. Emergency Services The owner or operator of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall provide a copy of the project summary, electrical schematic, and site plan to the Agawam Fire Department. Upon request, the owner or operator shall cooperate with local emergency services in developing an emergency response plan. All means of disconnecting the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall he clearly marked. The owner or operator shall identify and provide contact information for a person who is responsible for responding to all public and emergency inquiries related to the installation. This information shall be updated as needed. h. Land Clearing, Soil Erosion and Habitat Impacts Page 7 of-10 Clearing of natural vegetation shall be limited to that which is necessary for the construction, operation and maintenance of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation or otherwise prescribed by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. Sufficient vegetation shall be maintained to minimize soil erosion. Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall be installed only upon water permeable surfaces as approved during site plan review. i. Preservation of Trees Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall be designed and constructed to preserve and maintain the health and root systems of significant trees on public property that are approximated to be seventy-five years and older or with a diameter of thirty-six inches or greater. j. 'Wildlife Corridors Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall be designed and constructed to minimize the impacts on wildlife corridors. k. Sound Levels Sound Ievels under normal operating conditions of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation measured at the boundary of the lot on which the installation in sited shall not be more than ten decibels greater than would otherwise exist in the absence of the facility. I. Hazardous Materials Hazardous materials that are stored, used, or generated on site shall not exceed the amount for a very small quantity generator of hazardous waste as defined by Massachusetts DEP and shall meet all applicable requirements, including storage of hazardous materials in a building with an impervious floor that is not adjacent to any floor drains to prevent discharge to the outside environment. if hazardous materials are utilized within the solar electric equipment, then impervious containment areas capable of controlling any release to the environment and to prevent potential contamination of groundwater are required. rn. Independent Engineer Upon request of the Planning Board, the proponent shall pay for a licensed third - party independent engineer selected by the Planning Board to assist the Planning Board in its review of submitted materials. §180-154 Monitoring and Maintenance a. Solar Photovoltaic installation Conditions `The owner or operator of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall maintain the facility in good condition. Maintenance shall include, but not Page 8 of 10 be limited to, painting, structural repairs, landscaping and integrity of security measures. Site access shall be maintained to a level acceptable to the Agawam Fire Chief, Building Inspector and Town's Electrical Inspector. The owner or operator shall be responsible for the cost of maintaining the installation and any access road, unless accepted as a public way. b. Modifications All material modifications to a Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation made after issuance of the required building permit shall require site plan approval by the Planning Board c. Removal Requirements and Abandonment i. Abandonment Absent notice of a proposed date of decommissioning or written notice of extenuating circumstances, the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation shall be considered abandoned when it fails to operate for more than one year without a written waiver by the Planning Board. If the owner or operator of the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation fails to remove the installation in accordance with the requirements of this section within one hundred fifty days of abandonment or the proposed date of decommissioning, the Town or its agents may enter the property and physically remove the installation, the full cost of which shall be the responsibility of the owner or operator. ii. Removal Requirements Any Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation which has reached the end of its useful life or has been deemed abandoned consistent with this ordinance shall be removed. The owner or operator shall physically remove the installation no more than one hundred fifty days after the date of discontinued operations. The owner or operator shall notify the Planning Board by certified mail of the proposed date of discontinued operations and plans for removal. Decommissioning shall consist of: 1. physical removal of all ground -mounted solar photovoltaic installations, structures, equipment. security barriers and electrical lines from the site; 2, disposal of all solid and hazardous waste in accordance with local, state, and federal waste disposal regulations, and 3. stabilization and re -vegetation of the site as necessary to minimize erosion. The Planning Board may allow the owner or operator to leave landscaping or designated below -grade foundations to minimize erosion and disruption to vegetation. Page 9of10 §180-155 Financial Surety The project proponent of Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installations shall provide a form of surety, either through escrow account, bond or line of credit from a creditable financial institution, in an amount sufficient to cover the cost of removal in the event the Town of Agawam deems the Commercial Ground Mounted Solar installation to be abandoned and must remove the installation and remediate the landscape. The amount and form of the surety shall be determined to be reasonable by the Planning Board, but in no event should exceed more than one hundred ten percent of the cost of removal and compliance with the additional requirements set forth herein, as determined by the project proponent. Such surety is not required for municipally -owned or state-owned facilities. The project proponent shall submit a fully inclusive estimate of the costs associated with removal prepared by a qualified engineer. The amount shall include a mechanism for calculating increased removal costs due to inflation. Page 10 of 10 PLANNIMO & COM t+UNITY DEVELOPMENT TOWN OF AGAWAM 36 MAIN STREET AGA AK M.A D100I Pioneer. Valley- Planning comet' 'ission 60 Congress Street Springfield, CIA. 01104 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston CONSERVATION comwSSION TOWN OF AGAWAM 36 MAIN STREET AGAWAK MA 01001 West Springfield Planning Board 26 Central Street - West Springfield, MA 01089 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen or. a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Acid Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston PLANNING BOARD TOWN OF AGAWAM 36 MAIN STREET AGAWA. , MA 01001 Westfield Planning Board 36 Court Street Westfield, MA 01085 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board wi11 hold a public bearing on Thursday, November 2,207 at 6.30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, M.A. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept, of Housing & Community Development, Boston PLANNING DOARD TOWN of AGAWAM 36 MAIN STREET AGAWAM, MA 01001 Suffield Zoning & Planning P.O. Box 246 Suffield, CT 06078 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/ 19/ 17 & 10/2 6117) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept, of Dousing & Community Development, Boston PLANNING BOARD TOWN OF AGAWAM 36 MAIN STREET AGAWAM, MA 01001 Southwick Planning Board 454 College Highway Southwick, IViA 01077 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston PLANNING BOARD TOWN OF AGAWAM 36 MAIN STREET AGAWAM, MA 01001 NNIA Dept. of Housing e: COMM. Dev. 100 Cambridge Street eston, MA. 02114 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston PLANNING BOARD TOWN OF AGAWAM 36 MAID STREET AGAWAK MA 01001 Springfield Planning Board City Mail 36 Court Street Springfield, MA 01103 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board )Arill hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be ran 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) Cc: Planning Boards in: Westfield West Springfield Suffield Southwick Springfield Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Dept. of Housing & Community Development, Boston tau/qL5�,04 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17) ow LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD The Agawam Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:30 PM in the Agawam Public Library, 750 Cooper Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this hearing will be to hear the petition of Mayor Cohen on a proposed Zoning Amendment entitled "Ordinance to Add Solar Energy Systems". A copy of the proposal can be obtained from the Agawam Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM in the Agawam Town Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA. BY ORDER OF: Mark R. Paleologopoulos, Chairman Agawam Planning Board (Ad to be run 10/19/17 & 10/26/17)