A member raised concerns about the increase in traffic, suggesting it posed public safety issues, which led to a majority vote against the permit. With five members opposing and only two in favor, the special permit for the major business complex did not pass. This decision influenced the subsequent denial of the property’s site plan review, following a six-to-one vote.

The discussions surrounding the Riverneck Road project also touched on the definitions of indoor and outdoor spaces, particularly in the context of contractor yards. The board acknowledged that temporary outdoor storage had historically been part of indoor contractor yard operations in Chelmsford. However, they agreed to revisit and refine these definitions in future discussions.

The meeting then addressed the Chelmsford Mall, which submitted a request for withdrawal without prejudice, a motion that passed unanimously. The focus shifted to Fire Station Number 5 on Acton Road, where the board voted unanimously to close the public hearing and grant special permits, a sidewalk waiver, and the site plan approval. Similarly, Fire Station 3 on Old Westford Road received unanimous approval for its special permit and site plan review, with the Fire Department expressing gratitude for the board’s support.

The Princeton Street project, introduced by Douglas Duchaine, also garnered attention. This development involved substantial revisions to address previous concerns, including the removal of temporary propane tanks in favor of timely gas connections by National Grid. Modifications to signage and building design were presented by Casey Ferrer, who detailed changes to the building’s facade, windows, and canopy. The discussion became more contentious when board members questioned the purpose of an upper deck area, initially intended for employee use but rumored for potential future wine tastings. The architects clarified that while the idea of tastings was discussed, it was not part of the current proposal.

As public input was solicited, resident Linda Jet voiced concerns over the building’s visibility and potential use as a distribution center for alcohol, given the area’s existing liquor stores. Attorney David Keel, representing the applicant, emphasized that the liquor license aimed to allow bulk purchasing for consumer savings, not wholesale distribution. He assured that any changes to the license would require revisiting regulatory bodies, including the select board and the ABCC.

The board contemplated setting a condition on the approval that any distribution changes would require prior approval. After deliberation, the board approved the special permit and site plan modification, attaching conditions against wholesaling and distribution. Despite the approval, concerns remained about the building’s scale and its impact on the neighborhood, leading to a divided vote with two members opposing the motion.

The meeting also covered updates on Steedman Street, where plans had been reviewed and approved by the fire department and conservation commission. The project included conditions for third-party monitoring during construction, focusing on erosion control and stormwater management. The board approved the zoning permit subject to these conditions, noting the solar photovoltaic facility’s potential to generate power comparable to the city’s current usage.

In a community development report, updates were provided on the aquifer gap analysis and managed growth strategy, with a planned January meeting to engage various boards and review a consultant’s final draft memo. The board also discussed the status of Jackson Road, where construction was completed, and legal documentation awaited submission for further action. Updates on Independence Drive involved acceptable revised plans for a bus stop and sidewalks.

The meeting concluded with discussions on local transportation improvements, including the controversial removal of on-street parking spaces to enhance traffic circulation and signalization. These changes are part of a larger initiative outlined in the Vinyl Square Master Plan, with grant applications submitted for concept plans. The board also addressed the transition of a former hotel to a shelter, raising zoning compliance concerns due to the state’s emergency regulations, which have since expired.