A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the review of a special permit and site plan modification for the property on West Main Street. The applicant sought to alter the existing site plan by dividing a four-unit multifamily building into two pairs of two units, connected by a porch, while maintaining the shared driveway and septic system. This proposal sparked a discussion about zoning laws and fire safety regulations. The board scrutinized whether the modification would sidestep the requirement for a sprinkler system, which is mandated if the units are considered a single building. The applicant clarified that the changes aimed to enhance marketability and neighborhood compatibility, not to bypass safety protocols.

The board emphasized the necessity of ensuring all fire safety considerations were thoroughly addressed, including ongoing discussions with the fire department. The design of the connecting porch, intended as a communal space, was also examined to ascertain its impact on building classification and subsequent fire safety requirements.

Public comments were invited, yet none were forthcoming. This lack of input did not deter the board from moving forward with a motion to approve the special permit. However, initial approval omitted a crucial condition regarding fire department consent, leading to a revote. After incorporating the necessary condition, the special permit was approved.

Another topic was the approval of special permit SP-14 for a property on PL Street, which involved the operation of a horse farm by new property owner Cynthia Marie. Given the property’s residential zoning and size under five acres, a special permit was required. During the meeting, Marie articulated her plans to restore the site’s use as a horse farm, addressing potential concerns about noise and manure management from neighbors. Public commentary from neighbors like William Francis highlighted apprehensions about these issues, prompting Marie to assure the board of her intention to responsibly manage the farm and maintain neighborhood harmony.

The board discussed the implications of granting the special permit, referencing state laws about agricultural usage and livestock management. The permit approval included conditions to ensure that the farm’s operations would align with community standards and expectations.

The meeting also touched on an update regarding state changes to permit expirations, affecting special permits, site plans, and variances approved within a specified timeframe. These changes automatically extend project deadlines, prompting the board to review impacted projects for potential owner notifications.

Additionally, the board received a report on the December 4 MBTA Community open house, which drew around 30 participants. The mapping exercise identified Norton Glen, Mansville Avenue North, and Wheaton College as primary areas of interest for potential zoning district considerations. Despite outreach efforts, attendance was consistent with past events, highlighting an ongoing challenge in community engagement.

Concerns about Wheaton College’s financial stability emerged during discussions, with speculation about its viability as a zoning district. Residents expressed frustration over perceived inadequacies in the board’s responsiveness to community feedback, though board members reassured attendees that all public input was being considered.