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Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
After receiving intense pushback from the public, local leaders and the MMA, Amazon has backed off its controversial proposal to use autonomous drones to deliver packages within a 7.5-mile range of its fulfillment center in Westborough.
On Oct. 30, Amazon asked Westborough’s Planning Board for permission to withdraw its site plan review application for the proposed operation without prejudice.
Amazon had proposed adding commercial drone takeoff and landing capabilities to its existing facility on Otis Street in Westborough. The operation would have created a delivery footprint across 15 neighboring municipalities, raising questions about public safety, zoning, environmental impacts, and quality of life.
The MMA raised concerns about the plans in an Oct. 28 letter to Amazon’s New England economic development leadership, calling for a transparent, comprehensive review and meaningful input from all affected municipalities.
MMA Executive Director Adam Chapdelaine emphasized that the proposal had implications well beyond Westborough, while the local officials responsible for protecting their communities had limited opportunities to participate in the process.
The MMA joined municipal leaders from Westborough and surrounding communities in calling for greater transparency and a comprehensive review.
The association also noted that the proposal could set a precedent for other commercial drone delivery operations, as additional companies pursue federal certification and consider converting existing distribution facilities into drone delivery sites.
Although Amazon’s withdrawal is an important development, the broader issues remain relevant to municipalities across Massachusetts. The MMA will continue to advocate for municipal involvement and work with local leaders, the Legislature, and state and federal agencies to ensure that cities and towns have a meaningful role in decisions affecting their communities.
Amazon wrote in its letter that the company “values its relationship with the Town of Westborough and looks forward to continuing to work with Town officials on next steps.”