Attorney Joshua Leam, representing 107 Woburn Street LLC, presented the application for a special permit and variance to transition the existing non-conforming medical office into a multifamily residential building. Leam provided detailed context about the property, which has undergone significant alterations since its original construction as a single-family home in 1906. He noted the building’s conversion to a medical office in 1971 and subsequent addition in 1984, emphasizing that it is no longer viable for single-family use due to the extensive modifications made for medical purposes.

Leam argued that converting the property into residential use would better align with the neighborhood’s character and reduce traffic compared to its former use. He highlighted that the current structure lacks an elevator and is not suitable for modern medical office needs, with renovation costs to revert to a single-family home estimated at over $1 million—exceeding the property’s assessed value. He also addressed zoning criteria, stating that the unique circumstances of the property, its substantial hardship, and lack of negative public impact justified the variance request.

Public comments revealed divided opinions. A local resident, Mark Tucker, expressed strong opposition, citing concerns about increased noise and traffic from six residential units, which he argued would be more disruptive than the previous medical office. Tucker emphasized his emotional attachment to the neighborhood and questioned the potential impact on property values.

In response to residents’ concerns, the board considered possible adjustments to the site plan, including modifying parking arrangements to minimize noise and light pollution. An attorney representing the developers proposed creating a buffer zone with natural landscaping, expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue to address the issues raised. This led to a decision to postpone the hearing, allowing time for further discussions between the developers and residents.

Another topic was the proposal to reconstruct a home in an S15 zoning district, which involves demolishing the existing non-conforming structure and constructing a new home that adheres to setback requirements. The proposal aims to center the new home on the lot, eliminating current encroachments. The board discussed the need for a special permit due to non-conformities in lot size and frontage. A resident suggested reorienting the new home parallel to John Street for improved neighborhood aesthetics, though this was not resolved at the meeting.

Further discussion centered on an application concerning 90 John Carver Road, where Brett Jackson sought a special permit and variances to replace a non-conforming garage with a two-story addition. Jackson explained the need to accommodate a growing family and proposed a wraparound porch that would slightly encroach into the setback areas due to the lot’s unique triangular shape. He emphasized that the project would enhance the property without extending its non-conformity and presented a letter of support from a neighboring property owner.

The board engaged in discussions about the necessity and implications of the requested variances, considering the property’s constraints and the proposal’s alignment with neighborhood character. Ultimately, they decided to grant a continuance to allow for further evaluation and potential redesigns to avoid the need for variances.