The proposed development, represented by attorney Joe Koggio on behalf of Churchill Development, initially faced challenges after its original 40-unit plan was denied by the ZBA. In response, the developers revised their application, reducing the unit count to 28, adding a 1,000-square-foot roof deck, and repositioning the building to address concerns about street narrowness and provide additional open spaces. These changes were intended to meet feedback from the ZBA and the ward counselors, who had initially supported the project. However, the planning board needed to determine whether these revisions constituted significant material changes under the state zoning act, which requires unanimous consent for project repetition to the ZBA.

The project plans to offer three affordable housing units, which Koggio confirmed would remain part of the proposal during the ZBA’s evaluation. Questions also arose about parking provisions, with the project including 20 parking spaces for the 28 units. Board members expressed concerns about the implications for residents, as city street parking restrictions would prevent additional cars from being accommodated on Green Street.

The meeting also delved into design considerations, such as the building’s staggered layout to mitigate shadow impacts on neighboring properties. Koggio explained that adjustments like the roof deck and a setback from the property line were made to accommodate concerns related to Green Street’s narrowness. The development’s alignment with the nearby smart growth overlay district, which encourages increased density, was also a point of discussion. Resident Amanda McGordy supported the project, noting that a previous development across the street had proceeded without similar opposition, despite offering fewer public benefits like affordable housing.

One of the key procedural hurdles remaining for the project includes another public hearing with the ZBA and a subsequent vote for a special permit from the city council. The planning board’s decision to grant consent for repetition to the ZBA was contingent on the revision of a letter to clarify the original unit numbers.