The meeting’s primary agenda item was the transformation of the former funeral home into a nine-unit residential building with retail space. Petitioner Anthony Ross proposed modifications following feedback from the Planning Board. Initially, the plan included two retail units, but it was revised to one larger retail space to accommodate the board’s preference for larger residential units suitable for families. The final configuration consists of one four-bedroom unit, six three-bedroom units, one two-bedroom unit, and one one-bedroom unit, with sizes ranging from 600 to 1,200 square feet.

Architectural changes were a focal point of the proposal. The design now incorporates bump-outs, a Mansard roof, and a glass front for the retail unit, moving away from the original commercial look. The residential entrance was relocated to the side of the building to enhance accessibility and maintain a residential character. David Troy, the architect, emphasized maintaining the original structure’s morphology while addressing the board’s concerns about residential design elements.

Parking was a critical aspect of the discussion, as the existing lot remains unchanged. The building’s footprint was reconfigured to improve retail access while adhering to setback regulations. The structure’s pre-existing non-conforming status necessitated several variances, which the board considered collectively, acknowledging the setbacks’ contribution to these requests. The department’s recommendations for approval included conditions such as shared parking plans, exterior lighting, waste management strategies, and construction management protocols.

Public participation was encouraged, but no attendees spoke on the matter. The board moved to close this portion of the hearing and approved the project unanimously. The new residential units, primarily multi-bedroom, are expected to attract families and provide more affordable housing options in the area.

The board also discussed other zoning matters, including a proposal for a catering service on Broadway to extend its operations to takeout and delivery. The petitioner clarified that the existing permit did not cover delivery services, and customers could place orders via phone or the website, with a designated pickup area in front of the establishment. This proposal will be reviewed further at a future meeting.

Another discussion involved a special permit and variance request for a 67-unit residential development on River Beach Parkway. The proposal did not meet multiple zoning requirements, and the developers chose to withdraw their application without prejudice, allowing for resubmission in May when a full board would be present.

The meeting also addressed broader zoning initiatives, particularly for the West Chelsea mixed-use district. Discussions centered on potential development in historically underutilized areas. The board highlighted the need for zoning amendments to encourage mixed-use development and improve the area’s infrastructure.

A historic preservation plan was proposed to document Chelsea’s diverse history, focusing on contributions from immigrant communities and religious institutions. The plan aims to enhance tourism and economic development while preserving the city’s historic sites.

The board’s green zoning project seeks to address flooding risks, given that a third of Chelsea is in a floodplain. This initiative includes updating floodplain ordinances and storm drain regulations to create resilient infrastructure. The project also considers the urban heat island effect, emphasizing the need for increased greenery and community access to green spaces.