The meeting’s most discussion revolved around a proposed amendment to the Main Street Redevelopment Plan, which sought to allow adult daycare facilities at the site of the former Dollar Tree store. This amendment was prompted by the need to relocate an existing adult daycare facility following changes in its current property’s ownership. The proposed location on Main Street aimed to address vacancy issues and was seen as a positive contribution to the area’s appearance and functionality.

Board planner Donna Miller detailed her review of the master plan, explaining that the proposed amendment aligned with several goals, including enhancing neighborhood business areas and supporting healthcare-related industries. While the amendment was largely consistent with the master plan, it was recognized as a secondary use rather than the highest and best use for the location.

The board discussed the parking requirements extensively, with concerns about the adequacy of existing parking facilities. It was clarified that the amendment would establish parking standards, with details to be determined during future site plan approvals. The board also considered the implications of different operators using the facility in the future, confirming that the amendment would permit the use at the specific location regardless of the operator.

Concerns were raised about on-street parking and the potential impact on the surrounding area. However, it was noted that on-street parking was not part of the parking calculations for the building. The board considered whether the current daycare would lose its rights to operate at its existing location, concluding that the existing use would remain subject to community shopping zone regulations.

Ultimately, the board approved the amendment with recommendations for ensuring adequate parking provisions. The motion passed with a mix of affirmatives and one abstention.

Another item of interest was the modification of building plans related to second-floor balconies. The application sought to extend the balconies closer to the edge of the building, clarifying inconsistencies in previously approved plans. Architect David Lucenelli confirmed the dimensions and explained that the proposed balconies would extend 1 foot 8 inches off the edge of the roof, with a total extension of 7 feet 8 inches from the rear exterior wall to the railing.

The board also discussed a note in the plans regarding the enclosure of a garage opening, with concerns about ventilation being raised. Acknowledging the need for clarity, the board emphasized that their approval of the balcony extension did not imply acceptance of other modifications made without prior approval.

During the voting process, a member abstained, expressing discontent with the developer’s actions in modifying plans without approval. Despite this, the majority of the board supported the balcony extension, leading to its approval with conditions that all outstanding issues be resolved.

The board also unanimously approved a resolution for a 7-Eleven on Bangs Avenue, confirming that the parking requirements were settled due to the commercial space being under 10,000 square feet.