The meeting, chaired by Joseph Pereira, began with a review of an application from attorney David Assad, representing a petitioner who sought a special permit and variance to develop two single-bedroom apartments above a garage at 612-614 Alden Street. The application included requests to waive parking requirements and amend lot coverage requirements in the A2 apartment zoning district. Assad detailed the history of the project, noting that the petitioner had acquired the property in January 2024 and initially sought minor modifications to the garage. However, due to the garage’s disrepair, a new set of plans was developed, leading to the issuance of a building permit for its reconstruction.

During the discussion, numerous concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of the parking and the height of the structure. The proposed apartments would have a footprint that varied from the original plans, requiring a variance for the addition of a staircase, which would reduce the side yard to 6.5 feet. Additionally, the apartments would contain a minimum of 480 square feet each, with potential modifications increasing this to 520 square feet. The existing property had four off-street parking spaces, and the new garages would provide additional parking or storage capacity. Assad argued that the proposal, with a ratio of one parking space per unit, would not negatively impact public health or safety, citing an excess of parking availability in the area.

However, board members deliberated on the height of the structure, which might exceed the allowed 18 feet, potentially reaching up to 24 feet. Assad acknowledged this concern and emphasized the desire to address all potential issues upfront. The board focused on ensuring that the proposed developments adhered to zoning laws while evaluating the potential consequences of granting such permits and variances.

In other business, the board unanimously approved a proposal from Grand Manor Holdings LLC to table a request for converting an existing four-unit apartment building into an eight-unit building until the next meeting due to personal reasons cited by the attorney representing the petitioner.

Another notable discussion involved Nathan Bourges, who sought an after-the-fact variance for constructing a 24-foot by 24-foot addition, which required waiving side yard setbacks and lot coverage requirements. The board questioned how such a large structure could have been built without a building permit. Bourges admitted to not verifying the permit status thoroughly before construction, leading to concerns about compliance and the necessary approvals moving forward.

The meeting also addressed a proposal from High Development LLC to divide a parcel into two lots and convert an existing office building into nine residential apartments. The board discussed the implications of converting commercial space to residential use, compliance with zoning regulations, and maintaining the neighborhood’s character. The proposal included providing easements for shared parking between lots, an aspect of the application.

The conversion of the historic Jefferson Ward house into nine residential units was another key topic. The developer emphasized maintaining the historical character of the area while modernizing the building. The plan included adding greenery and refurbishing existing structures to enhance the neighborhood’s appeal. A representative from the Bristol County Economic Development Corporation expressed support for the project, highlighting the need for additional rental housing in the city.

The board also approved a special permit for a tattoo parlor proposed by Anton and Ashley Estrella to operate by appointment only. The board discussed parking concerns, hours of operation, and signage. The Estrellas emphasized their commitment to maintaining a classy image for their business and ensuring that their operations would not negatively impact the neighborhood.

Additionally, the board deliberated on a request from Leolinda Gomes to convert an existing non-conforming two-family dwelling into a three-family dwelling. The application sought a special permit to extend existing non-conforming lot coverage to add two parking spaces for the new unit. The board noted that the proposed changes would be in line with neighborhood trends and approved the special permit.

Finally, the board discussed procedural steps to address zoning regulations in the A2 district. A proposal was made to align the minimum lot size for residential units in the A2 district with other zones.