The zoning regulations set forth in this ordinance have been developed in accordance with the comprehensive plan for the Town of Hopkinton prepared and adopted in accordance with R.I.G.L., chapter 45-22.2, and shall be maintained in accordance with said plan as it may be amended, to address the following purposes, each with equal priority and numbered for reference purposes only:

(1)

To promote the public health, safety, and general welfare.

(2)

To provide for a range of uses and intensities of use appropriate to the character of the town, and reflecting current and expected future needs.

(3)

To provide for orderly growth and development which recognizes:

(a)

The goals and patterns of land use contained in the Hopkinton Comprehensive Community Plan adopted pursuant to R.I.G.L., chapter 45-22.2;

(b)

The natural characteristics of the land, including its suitability for use based on soil characteristics, topography, and susceptibility to surface or groundwater pollution;

(c)

The values and dynamic nature of freshwater ponds and wetlands;

(d)

The values of unique or valuable natural resources and features;

(e)

The availability and capacity of existing and planned public and/or private services and facilities, and the lack of feasibility of providing public sewage disposal or the extension of public water facilities;

(f)

The need to shape and balance suburban and rural development; and

(g)

The use of innovative development regulations and techniques.

(4)

To provide for the control, protection, and/or abatement of air, water, groundwater, and noise pollution, and soil erosion and sedimentation.

(5)

To provide for the protection of the natural, historic, cultural, and scenic character of the Town of Hopkinton or areas therein.

(6)

To provide for the preservation and promotion of agricultural production, forest, silviculture, aquaculture, timber resources, and open space.

(7)

To provide for the protection of public investment in transportation, water, stormwater management systems, sewage treatment and disposal, solid waste treatment and disposal, schools, recreation, public facilities, open space, and other public requirements.

(8)

To promote a balance of housing choices, for all income levels and groups, to assure the health, safety and welfare of all citizens and their rights to affordable, accessible, safe, and sanitary housing.

(9)

To provide opportunities for the establishment of low and moderate income housing.

(10)

To promote safety from fire, flood, and other natural or man-made disasters.

(11)

To promote a high level of quality in design in the development of private and public facilities.

(12)

To promote the implementation of the Hopkinton Comprehensive Community Plan adopted pursuant to R.I.G.L., chapter 45-22.2.

(13)

To provide for coordination of land uses with contiguous municipalities, other municipalities, the state, and other agencies, as appropriate, especially with regard to resources and facilities that extend beyond Town of Hopkinton boundaries or have a direct impact on the Town of Hopkinton.

(14)

To provide for efficient review of development proposals, to clarify and expedite the zoning application process.

(15)

To provide for procedures for the administration of the Zoning Ordinance.

(Ch. 134, § 1, 12-19-94)