The meeting saw the applicants for 38 Fenway, represented by Attorney John Pini, detail plans for a comprehensive renovation of the property, which has been largely unoccupied since the 1980s. The project aims to convert the structure into a five-unit dwelling, with the developers planning to occupy one unit themselves and the remainder intended for family and long-term tenants. The board was attentive to community apprehensions regarding short-term rentals and the leasing of units to undergraduate students, a concern echoed by Stephen Farrell from Fenway Forward. He advocated for a good neighbor agreement to prevent these rental categories, highlighting the potential impact on local rents and community dynamics.

A board member responded to such concerns by emphasizing the applicants’ personal circumstances, including a medical condition that necessitated an accessible living arrangement. The applicants assured the board and community members that their intent was to create a stable, family-oriented living environment, not to engage in short-term leasing. The board, after considering these factors, approved the development with conditions for Boston Water and Sewer Commission review due to the site’s location within a groundwater conservation overlay district, as well as additional design and parking reviews.

In another noteworthy discussion, a project for 69R Parent Street faced substantial opposition from local residents. The proposal, which involved constructing a three-family dwelling on a non-standard lot, was criticized for potential density and traffic issues. Concerns were also raised about the influx of college students, with the Roxbury Path Forward Neighborhood Association highlighting the area’s existing congestion. The board, recognizing the need for more community input, decided to defer the decision, scheduling further discussions for February 3rd to allow additional engagement with local residents.

The board also addressed a proposal for a new three-story single-family house at One Hartland Road. Attorney John Paulini presented the plans to replace a deteriorating structure, with the proposal receiving community support, including endorsements from adjacent property owners and the West Roxbury Neighborhood Council. The board approved the proposal unanimously, reflecting community backing and the completion of the requisite engagement process.

Additionally, the meeting covered a case concerning 25 Royal Street and Empire Street, where plans for constructing two three-family houses were discussed. Architect Steven Chun outlined a collaborative parking access arrangement involving a shared off-street parking plan. The Disabilities Commission raised accessibility concerns, particularly regarding the accessible route from the parking area to the building entrance. The board moved to approve the project, contingent on meeting accessibility requirements.