Varella Appointed as Planning and Zoning Board Alternate

Corporate and tax lawyer, and longtime Easton resident John Varella was appointed by selectmen this week to serve on the Planning and Zoning Board as an alternate.

Varella told selectmen that his background reading codes, specifically in the tax area, could be helpful while serving on the board.

"I am very comfortable reading bylaws," Varella said. "I think I’ve got some training there that will be of assistance."

Selectman voted unanimously to appoint Varella with one abstention. Deric Lipski, a realtor in town, was the other candidate. Selectman Dan Murphy, a local accountant, abstained because Lipski is a client of his.

Varella is a graduate of and a board member at the . He assists in fundraising at the and serves as a member of the

He said his major priority would be maintaining the character of the town, stating that potential exists for Easton to become "overwhelmed" with development.

"I’m also concerned of the effect of the SouthCoast rail coming through town," he said. "How that plays out on Main Street and even on Union Street, that’s going to have a big effect on the town."