0:00Among the noteworthy cases, the proposal for a two-story rear addition on Beach Street drew discussion. Homeowners David Dear and Robin Hopkins sought to expand their single-family home by removing a part of the rear deck and single-story rear projection, replacing them with a larger structure. The applicant’s representative highlighted that the only zoning violation involved was the extension of an existing side yard non-conformity. A shadow study was presented to address community concerns regarding potential sunlight obstruction, particularly affecting a neighboring property on Beach Street. The neighbor, concerned about the impact on their sunroom and kitchen, suggested that the addition remain within the property’s existing non-conformity. Despite these objections, the board approved the proposal, emphasizing the addition’s alignment with neighborhood character. The board’s decision was unanimous.

13:52Another approval was granted for a property on Harvard Avenue, where a representative for Jen Kine Barbecue requested a conditional use permit and variance for a new restaurant. The restaurant plans to occupy both floors of a former office building, offering a total of 219 seats. The application included a request for a liquor license and proposed operating hours extending until 1:00 a.m. on weekends. The representative underscored the thorough community engagement process, with no opposition reported from local groups or abutters. The Office of Neighborhood Services confirmed this account, leading to the board’s approval without opposition.

The board also considered a renovation project at 10 to 12 Bagel Street, where the homeowner sought to add a shed dormer to the existing two-family house. The proposed changes aimed to include a home office and central air conditioning, necessitating a variance due to floor area ratio and building height exceedances. Despite one neighbor’s aesthetic concerns, the board approved the project, recognizing its consistency with prior neighborhood renovations and its potential to enhance the property’s functionality.

27:49At 64 Etna Street, the board reviewed a request for a variance due to violations related to maximum floor area and habitable stories. The homeowner explained discrepancies in square footage measurements, attributed to the inclusion of unfinished basement and attic spaces. The intention was to finish the attic, adding two bedrooms without altering the building’s footprint. The board, acknowledging the completed community process and minimal opposition, granted the variance, facilitating needed renovations to improve living conditions.

Additionally, the meeting addressed a procedural oversight for a property at 43 to 45 Wood Avenue. The representative clarified approved curb cuts and tandem parking plans that were initially omitted in prior submissions. The correction aligned with existing zoning regulations, leading to the board’s approval, despite prior departmental recommendations against the project.