Planning Department

Our Mission

The South Hadley Planning Board and staff assist the community in efforts to achieve balanced growth, quality development and preservation of community assets through effective development regulation, assisting in obtaining funding resources for community projects and long-term planning.

In fulfillment of this mission, the department has primary responsibilities of:

• Developing and administering the town’s Comprehensive or Master Plan
• Maintaining and administering the town’s Zoning By-Law and Subdivision Regulations
• GIS mapping of town statistical data;
• Reviewing and evaluating site plans, special permits, and subdivision plans
• Assisting other departments and the community in work on grant applications and economic development

About the department

The Planning and Conservation Department  consists of three full-time staff: Anne Capra, AICP, Director of Planning and Conservation; Rebekah Cornell, Conservation Administrator/Planner; and Colleen Canning, Planning/Conservation Coordinator.  The department provides full staffing assistance to the Planning Board and Conservation Commission as well as supplemental support to the Zoning Board of Appeals, Redevelopment Authority, Tree Committee, Master Plan Implementation Committee and various other Boards and Committees.

For more information  information about the Conservation Commission, you can check out their page here.

About the Planning Board

The Planning Board is an elected 5-member board who serve staggered 3-year terms. One additional person is appointed jointly by the Select Board and Planning Board to serve as an associate member.

The Board typically meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 PM. However, that can change due to holidays and member availability.  For the most up-to-date meeting schedule please consult with the Town's calendar here or contact the department at Town Hall.