Adams Says Yes to Zoning Tool at Town Meeting

Rejecting "fear-mongering" about low-income housing, Adams Town Meeting representatives embraced a new zoning option Thursday that could spur development in older buildings and open the town to newcomers.

The Berkshire Eagle reports ,as darkness fell during the outdoor session at Bowe Field, and officials passed out blankets, an article authorizing the town to create "smart growth" zoning passed 89-9, easily securing the two-thirds majority needed.

The measure, known by the shorthand 40-R, provides financial incentives from the state to developers who revitalize existing buildings. Adams becomes the fourth Berkshire community to adopt the state program, also in use in Great Barrington, Lee and Pittsfield.