Billerica Planning Board delays ADU short-term rental rules, approves Carmina Road lot swap

BILLERICA -- February 10, 2025, Billerica Planning Board takes no action on short-term rental rules for accessory dwelling units, citing enforcement concerns. The board voted unanimously to approve a sibling lot-line swap at 402 Carmina Road, where attorney Jim D'Angora represented applicants Heather and William Bercy in a transfer of 1,769 square feet between adjacent parcels. On ADUs, members debated whether to bring a warrant article to Spring Town Meeting adding a short-term rental restriction, but reached consensus to hold off after Member Ed Giroux warned that any such ban would have to apply to all residential units town-wide, not just ADUs, under state non-discrimination rules. Member Chris Tribu cited the building commissioner's prior testimony that enforcement of short-term rental violations can consume years of staff time with little result, saying he would prefer to wait until October Town Meeting if problems emerge. Chair Mike Parker directed staff to produce a one-page plain-language explainer on ADU permitting options for residents. Member Kelly Sardina announced she will not seek re-election in April.