The board’s approval of the application for a property on Goen Street marked a notable transition for the property’s use. The site, currently a 1.5-acre commercial plot in a B3 zone, had previously been utilized for auto sales and repair under various owners. The new tenant, Model One, will specialize in selling and servicing school and transit buses, a change that promises to streamline operations and improve site conditions. The application, presented by Larry Cali from CPDIOS Serville LP, included plans for minor site improvements such as restriping parking areas and installing new landscaping to enhance aesthetics. The application did not exacerbate existing non-conformities, and the proposed changes are aligned with maintaining the core business activities of auto sales and service.

Tom Trod, a civil engineer from Dynamic Engineering, provided insights into the site’s current conditions and the proposed changes. He emphasized that the introduction of Model One would not alter the existing operations nor increase non-conformities related to setbacks and lot coverage. Instead, the focus is on maintaining the current use while ensuring compliance with zoning regulations. The planned enhancements include the reconfiguration of parking spaces to accommodate tandem parking and the establishment of a formal trash enclosure, screened by landscaping to minimize visibility.

The operation at the new facility is expected to reduce traffic compared to the previous use, with clients predominantly consisting of commercial entities such as transit agencies and school districts. This targeted clientele reduces the likelihood of spontaneous visits, as orders are typically placed in advance. The business model, focusing on ADA-compliant vans and small buses, ensures that the operation remains niche and specialized. During the meeting, concerns regarding the accessibility of Gowen Street for emergency vehicles were addressed, with assurances given that operational measures would prevent street parking from blocking access.

In addressing the board’s concerns, the applicant confirmed that the business would not open until all necessary approvals were secured. The operation’s logistics, including the storage of vehicles and internal handling of used oil, were clarified. The proposed use anticipates servicing six to eight vehicles daily, with turnaround times varying based on service needs.

Another point of discussion was the variance required for the building’s signage. While the ordinance permits a 50-square-foot sign in the B3 zone, a specific provision for service stations restricts building signs to six square feet. The board considered a variance to reconcile these differences. Additionally, the proposed trash enclosure, intended to be 10 by 10 feet, prompted discussions regarding its adequacy for accommodating both trash and recyclables.

The board’s deliberations included a thorough evaluation of the application, resulting in approval with conditions. These conditions included limiting employee numbers, specifying parking arrangements, and ensuring all necessary permits are obtained before commencing operations.

Another application reviewed during the meeting was from Michael Balabic, who sought to revisit a previously approved plan for a single-family home on William Street. The application, originally approved for a three-bedroom home, was modified to propose a four-bedroom house with increased lot coverage. The board’s discussion focused on variances required due to the lot’s small size and the necessary adjustments for flood zone compliance, given the property’s location. The board ultimately approved Balabic’s application, allowing him to proceed with construction, contingent on securing permits from the Department of Environmental Protection.