Design Review Board

Meetings

  • Meets as needed
  • Town Hall
    29 Middle Road
    Boxborough, MA 01719

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes

Members

  • Rebecca Verner, Chair
    Term expires: 2024
  • Wes Fowlks
    Term expires: 2024
  • Brian Picca, Clerk
    Term expires: 2025
  • Kimberly Musto
    Term expires: 2023
  •     Richard Hilton
    Term expires: 2025 

Overview

The Design Review Board (DRB) was created in May of 2000 through the adoption of Zoning Bylaw changes proposed by the Town Center Visioning Committee at Annual Town Meeting. The purpose of the DRB is to augment the typical planning process and provide a detailed review of design attributes in the Town Center Zoning District and other areas, if designated, to complement the design qualities of the town and enhance the scenic, historic, and rural character of the town.

The Design Review Board derives its authority and responsibilities from Section 8100 of the Zoning Bylaw. The DRB is comprised of five members. Representatives are designated from the Board of Selectmen, Planning Board, Historical Commission, and the DRB itself elects two at-large members. The DRB conducts a design review process in support of the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Design Guidelines & Review

The DRB approves Design Guidelines (PDF) which include detail on attributes for the design review process as enumerated in the Zoning Bylaw:

  • Architectural details, materials, and color
  • Facade and openings
  • Landscaping
  • Massing and spacing of buildings
  • Placement and orientation of buildings within a lot
  • Rhythm of solids and voids
  • Roof slopes and shapes
  • Signage and lighting

The appropriate boards transmit plans to the Design Review Board for review and comment. The Board reviews the plans and then makes its advisory recommendations to the Planning Board or other Special Permit Granting Authority as defined in the Zoning Bylaw. The DRB performs a significant, and hopefully expanding service for the community, helping to support the appropriate boards for review of new developments and expansion projects consistent with the character of the town.