Somerville Zoning Board Approves Historic Building’s Restaurant Renovation

The Somerville Zoning Board recently approved the renovation of a historic building for a new restaurant and bar, amidst discussions on a range of topics from parking spaces to the oversight of historic renovations. The high-end renovation project is set to include a mezzanine for additional dining, a centrally located bar, and jazz music performances. This decision came alongside the approval of another application seeking a parking space reduction for a residential property.

Delving into the details of the historic building’s transformation, the board scrutinized the project’s plan to introduce a variety of changes aimed at creating a modern dining experience within the structure’s storied walls. The owner, a seasoned restaurateur, outlined the proposed addition of a mezzanine level to accommodate more patrons and the establishment of a bar as the focal point of the space. The board paid particular attention to operational aspects like soundproofing measures, the impact of live jazz performances, and the technical details surrounding the HVAC system and kitchen design. Concerns about potential noise were addressed with a discussion of soundproofing windows, while questions regarding the visual impact of the HVAC equipment were handled by explaining the screening process.

The restaurant’s operational details, such as the hours of opening and the management of used cooking oil, were also covered. The board fielded inquiries about the inclusion of televisions in the establishment and the status of the liquor license. The board’s decision to approve the application was conditional, with stipulations including the leveling of the sidewalk and adherence to standard conditions of approval.

Simultaneously, the board debated a separate application that requested a reduction in parking spaces for a property where the owner’s family planned to reside. The necessity of this reduction was questioned by some board members, but the application was ultimately approved.

Notably, the meeting also addressed broader concerns beyond the specific applications. Discussions arose regarding the need for legal representation during the appeals process of zoning decisions. While one board member advised that legal counsel is prudent, a resident questioned the necessity for such representation when addressing local regulations and state licenses. These conversations highlighted the community’s engagement with the board’s proceedings and the complexities involved in navigating town governance.

The importance of having a zoning officer present at all meetings was underscored.

The discussion concluded with the board expressing frustration over the necessity of variances for minor non-compliances, which they felt could inhibit development, and a debate over the possibility of future green space creation in lieu of parking areas.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Mayor:
Brian Gallagher
Zoning Board Officials:
Arthur Adair, Ed Allatt, John Flores, Roberta Karpinecz, Morgan McLachlan, Richard O’Neill, Brian Vadimsky, Eric Alvarez (Alternate #1), Stewart Daniels (Alternate #2), Jenna LaRusso (Planning and Zoning Board Secretary), Clifford Gibbons (Board Attorney), Michael Cole (Board Planner and Engineer)

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