The proposed amendment to Chapter 650, Section 33, concerning the Results Way Mixed-Use Overlay District, took center stage. The amendment seeks to increase the residential cap from 100 to 400 units within Subdistrict 2. Presenters highlighted the transformation of the existing campus since its acquisition in 2020, including significant leases with BJ’s Wholesale and Hologic, and the construction of the new Massachusetts State Crime Lab.

The Planning Board’s recommendation favored the zoning amendment, citing its alignment with neighborhood character and potential economic benefits. However, it raised questions about market demand for additional garden-style apartments. The board proposed prioritizing townhouse units and mixed-use amenities in the early phases, ensuring public access to proposed walking trails, and preserving natural vegetation.

Debate emerged regarding the proposed increase in units by right, with a suggestion to allow only 100 units by right and the remaining 300 through a special permit. Concerns revolved around ensuring regulatory oversight and clarifying language distinguishing units allowed by right from those needing a special permit. The council members discussed the possibility of including a biosafety lab, previously considered for bio-manufacturing, but ultimately deemed unnecessary for the crime lab project.

The discussion extended to the implications of the zoning change on future negotiations and commitments, with some expressing concern over developers pushing for more units based on market conditions. Clarity on the development process was sought, with emphasis on the master concept plan’s role in outlining project specifics and the development agreement’s function in managing mitigation efforts and construction phases.

The council’s consideration of the development agreement’s relationship to the special permit process surfaced, as members questioned whether similar items would be negotiated under both frameworks. The importance of including specific language regarding affordable housing units in the development agreement was stressed, following a suggestion by the city solicitor. A member emphasized the need to ensure that any approved development includes the mandated number of affordable units.

A motion was made to amend the zoning language to reflect the increased unit cap and clarify affordable housing conditions. The council unanimously approved this amendment, which will be reported at the June 8 meeting, with a looming 90-day deadline for action on July 6.

Shifting focus, the council addressed a request to lift a low-income deed restriction on a property on Village Drive, Unit 4. The owner faced challenges selling the unit due to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities’ determination that age-restricted housing did not qualify as affordable housing. The council expressed support for removing the restriction, highlighting the owner’s difficult position and the housing market’s realities. Members agreed that releasing the restriction would facilitate the property’s sale and resolve ongoing issues.

The council moved to endorse the release of the affordable housing restriction, referring the matter to the legal department for drafting the necessary language for the June 8 meeting. Unanimous approval was given to clear up complications and enable a smoother transaction for the property owner.