The meeting opened with the board addressing a proposal from Joyce Frisola and Lisa Worsley, represented by attorney Peter Aselino, to construct a 20×30-foot two-story addition to their dwelling on Langley Street. After addressing initial concerns, the board approved the variance with conditions, such as prohibiting additional accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on the property.

The discussion then shifted to a petition from JB Whipple Residences LLC, requesting a special permit to divide a property on Wibble Street into two lots, each hosting a three-family dwelling. The board approved this petition unanimously, emphasizing the importance of maintaining existing parking spaces and ensuring utility separations.

A more contentious issue emerged with Robert Pellegrini’s proposal on behalf of GZ Homes LLC to divide a property on KFAC Street, which raised concerns about parking provisions. The lack of dedicated parking for the existing two-family dwelling became a focal point of the discussion, with board members questioning the feasibility of the proposed development. The board decided to table the application, requesting further clarity on parking arrangements and lot coverage calculations before making a final decision.

Further complicating the evening’s agenda was a proposal to subdivide a vacant lot in the S single-family zoning district, presented by attorney Gregory Brilliant. The board scrutinized the request to waive frontage area and side setbacks for constructing two single-family homes. Neighbors voiced concerns about potential impacts on street parking, privacy, and neighborhood aesthetics. The board debated the implications of the subdivision, particularly in light of state laws that allow single-family homes to transition into duplexes or include ADUs. The board ultimately decided to table the application, allowing time for the applicant to address these concerns and gather more community feedback.

Parking concerns continued to dominate the meeting as the board reviewed a variance application from Fall River Auto Repair LLC. The proposal sought to permit the storage of towed vehicles on a property not zoned for such use. The board expressed environmental concerns about the gravel surface’s ability to contain potential leaks from stored vehicles. Discussions also focused on the need for enhanced screening and defined parking areas. With questions about noise, privacy, and operational hours, the board emphasized the need for a plans before considering approval.

The board also considered a special permit request from Tetral Real Estate LLC to construct an additional ADU on Davis Street. This proposal required relief from lot coverage and parking requirements, prompting debate over the interpretation of zoning bylaws regarding ADU size calculations. Despite concerns about increasing lot coverage, the board approved the special permit, albeit with some dissenting votes.

Finally, the board examined a variance request from Carrerero Irrevocable Trust to allow two off-street parking spaces on Whipple Street. While recognizing the potential benefit of an additional parking spot, the board questioned the practicality of the proposed driveway width and the feasibility of the overall configuration. The board’s scrutiny highlighted the complexities of accommodating parking needs within existing structural and legal limitations.