The board grappled with the special permit application from John S. Lane and Son Company Inc. for the continuation of quarrying operations on West Street. After a site visit and discussions that included the depth of the quarry and its proximity to groundwater, the board approved a five-year special permit extension for the applicant. The conditions of the permit were thoroughly debated, including the depth of excavation and the inclusion of conditions from the previous permit. Notably, there was unanimous agreement on amending a proposed condition to include both “area and depth” after the word “area.”

The potential conversion of a single-family dwelling into a non-owner occupied duplex on North Whitney Street proved to be more contentious. Public comments reflected strong opposition from residents, who cited concerns about the neighborhood’s character, safety, traffic, and the precedent it might set for future developments. Neighbors voiced unanimous disapproval, with a petition signed by 58 individuals against the conversion. Concerns were also raised about the adequacy of the existing management plan, with calls for the applicant to provide direct contact information for immediate resolution of problems.

During the public hearing, the applicant’s representative, Tom Rey, outlined the zoning of the property and proposed changes, which included an updated site plan showing 10 parking spaces. Rey emphasized that the changes would adhere to zoning regulations and pointed to the need for additional housing in the area. Mathena Morrisy, a local resident, proposed community integration measures such as neighborhood block parties and expressed her willingness to lead efforts to address traffic and safety concerns.

Despite the applicant’s assurances and proposals to mitigate concerns, several board members remained apprehensive about the project’s suitability and its alignment with neighborhood character. The applicant offered the possibility of a zoning map amendment through the Town Council as a remedy for fundamental changes desired by the neighborhood.

The board also reviewed a request to update the management plan for a property on North Whitney Street and discussed the need for an updated plan for a property on Hazel Avenue, which the new owner, Mr. Patel, agreed to abide by. Additionally, the meeting addressed a report on a site visit to a quarry, where company representatives clarified that there were no changes sought to the conditions or operation of the quarry.

The ZBA tackled the topic of solar energy, agreeing to continue a public hearing for a special permit to construct a solar array by ASD Shutesbury Massachusetts Solar LLC to September 12th.

Finally, the meeting previewed upcoming hearings for a social dormitory and provided a primer on the 40b comprehensive permit process.