The council unanimously approved a special permit for the development of 187 residential units on Lazard Drive, with conditions to ensure compliance with stormwater and erosion control measures. The permit requires that a designated individual oversee site compliance, holding full authority over these controls to prevent untreated stormwater from leaving the site. The project will include affordable housing units, constituting at least 12% of the total units, reserved for buyers earning no more than 80% of the area median income. This requirement aims to address the city’s housing affordability issues by integrating affordable units throughout the development.

Transportation considerations for the project include providing public transportation information, offering welcome packages for new residents, and installing secure bicycle parking. The project must also incorporate energy-efficient designs, with at least 10% of parking spaces equipped with electric vehicle charging stations. Additionally, the developer is obligated to complete improvements to Lazot Drive before the final occupancy permit is granted, although extensions may be considered under specific conditions.

Financial contributions tied to the project were another focal point. The developer must contribute $50,000 for the Lake Williams Trail System’s maintenance and improvement and $100,000 for enhancements to ball fields along William Street. Furthermore, a fee of $1,000 per multifamily unit, totaling $187,000, is earmarked for a proposed westside fire station. These contributions reflect the city’s strategy to leverage development projects for local infrastructure improvements, balancing growth with community needs.

The special permit for a contractor yard on Airport Boulevard also received approval, with conditions emphasizing compliance with building codes and zoning regulations. The applicant must conduct a detailed site plan review before obtaining building permits and ensure effective stormwater management during construction. Screening of outdoor storage areas is mandated, requiring solid fencing and vegetated barriers to obscure them from public view. Vehicle storage and equipment areas must be on impervious surfaces with proper drainage systems to prevent contamination.

In parallel to approving these special permits, the council engaged in a discussion regarding the city’s budget, which faces an unprecedented $18 million increase. Concerns were raised about the potential tax implications of this increase, particularly for residential and commercial properties. The board of assessors recommended a shift in the residential factor from 1.45 to 1.47. The council acknowledged the challenge of maintaining Marlborough’s competitive tax rates while addressing rising operational costs, particularly in education and public safety.

There was a consensus on the need for new development projects to contribute to the tax base, with council members expressing urgency in pursuing growth to prevent disproportionate tax burdens on residents. The council also recognized the human impact of tax increases, particularly on seniors living on fixed incomes, and stressed the need for compassionate tax policies.