The proposal for the Marlboro Street property, led by representative David Mindlin, involves renovating existing units and adding two more, maintaining the architectural integrity of the area. The project will require several variances and special permits. Parking emerged as a concern due to the limited number of spaces provided. The plan includes five parking spaces, requiring the demolition of the existing garage and the construction of a parking lot on an adjacent lot. Despite assurances that each unit would have off-street parking, the board stipulated conditions to prevent new residents from participating in the city’s resident sticker parking program to alleviate street congestion.

Concerns about the project’s height were raised, with board members questioning the suitability of a four-story structure in the area. Mindlin defended the design, citing zoning regulations that allow for structures up to 42 feet high, and contended that similar buildings exist within the block. The board also scrutinized the proposed facade, emphasizing the need for visual harmony between the renovated upper floors and the existing lower structure. Mindlin reassured that the entire exterior would be updated to ensure consistency.

Landscaping and drainage were additional focal points of the discussion. The board emphasized the importance of managing water runoff, particularly in the parking area, and recommended the use of permeable pavers. A comprehensive drainage plan is still pending, awaiting an assessment of site conditions post-demolition of the garage. Mindlin acknowledged the necessity of addressing these concerns, aligning with the board’s conditions for project approval, which included finalizing a landscape plan and a rodent control plan before occupancy permits could be issued.

The proposal on Grand View also drew attention, with Rebecca Edmonson Corum and her team presenting a revised design for a two-family structure intended for Mr. Castillo’s children. This project required variances due to non-compliance issues from merging two previously subdivided lots. The design aimed to accommodate community feedback by consolidating staircases to minimize disruption to neighboring properties. Despite the effort to align with zoning regulations, the board questioned the number of variances and the building’s height, which was intentionally kept lower than surrounding structures to integrate aesthetically.

Stormwater runoff management remained a contentious issue, with residents expressing concerns about potential flooding and existing sewage capacity. The design team assured measures to mitigate these concerns, including garages equipped with electric vehicle chargers to address parking and traffic flow. The board requested additional visual representations to better understand how the project would fit into the neighborhood’s landscape.

Public comments highlighted anxieties about street congestion and the impact on emergency services. Concerns about sunlight loss, noise pollution, and the sewer system’s capacity were voiced by residents, with suggestions for independent studies to assess the project’s impact on light and privacy. The board maintained a cautious stance, stressing the need for thorough planning and community input.

In parallel, the board navigated the complexities of zoning regulations surrounding accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The state mandates allowing at least one ADU per property, but local zoning restrictions pose challenges, particularly regarding detached ADUs. The discussion revealed that current dimensional standards effectively prohibit such units, potentially exposing the city to legal challenges. The board considered revising zoning laws to accommodate ADUs, acknowledging the need for flexibility to integrate these units into the community.

Parking emerged as a issue, especially as state regulations do not require off-street parking for ADUs near public transit. This could exacerbate existing parking congestion, prompting the board to consider new dimensional standards for detached ADUs. The conversation also touched on potential revisions to allow greater integration of ADUs without compromising the city’s infrastructure.

Lastly, the board discussed ongoing master planning efforts, highlighting the need for community engagement and alignment of zoning regulations with the city’s evolving goals. The plan aims to integrate climate resilience measures, enhance walkability, and connect public spaces with greenways. Subcommittees were proposed to streamline discussions and develop concrete recommendations.