The most notable issue revolved around a variance request from Daniel Cybor for a property on Washington Avenue. The proposal involved reducing the required number of parking spaces for a 30-unit residential building from 36 to 26, primarily by incorporating a stacked parking system. Cybor argued that the building’s proximity to public transit and inclusion of bike storage would offset the need for additional parking.

During the public hearing, several speakers strongly opposed the use of stacked parking systems, citing significant safety and reliability issues. One individual described their experience with a stacked parking system in Boston, likening its complexity to a “Rubik’s Cube”. They emphasized that if a vehicle becomes stuck, it can block access for all others, posing a critical risk during emergencies, especially with electric vehicles.

Another speaker, identified as Anthony Zambuto, expressed regret over his previous support for stacked parking, admitting inadequate research before voting for it. He described stacked parking as “wonderful for a hotel” but unsuitable for residential use due to associated dangers and noise. Zambuto mentioned receiving information suggesting that only half of the available parking spaces would be needed.

Both Angela Gino Soo W and Ionova Sski shared negative experiences with stacked parking systems, recounting incidents that caused lengthy delays and inconvenience. These speakers underscored the dangers and noise associated with such systems, particularly for electric vehicles. Richard J. Sereno, a former Ward 6 counselor, agreed with these concerns, noting that residents in the new development would not qualify for resident parking stickers, exacerbating local parking issues.

Counselor Michelle Kelly contributed to the debate by highlighting past instances where developers failed to deliver on promised parking solutions, leading to increased congestion. She stressed the importance of setting firm precedents to prevent developers from sidestepping their commitments.

The board’s discussion culminated in a motion to eliminate stacked parking from future permits. The board voted to deny the relief request for Cybor’s project, reflecting strong opposition to stacked parking systems.

Another topic involved a variance application presented by Martin Carbo for a gazebo on Oakwood Avenue. Carbo sought relief from the minimum side yard setback requirement to make the already constructed gazebo compliant. During the public hearing, a neighbor praised Carbo as “an awesome neighbor” and supported the gazebo, describing it as “aesthetically pleasing”. Additional support came through an email from another neighbor and a letter from Counselor Cogliandro. With no opposition, the board approved the variance, subject to specific conditions regarding its exercise and recording.

A subsequent application by Marshall Lucenta for 630 Rivier Beach Boulevard sought variances for constructing a two-car garage and a handicap-accessible entryway. Lucenta claimed the current structure was inadequate for wheelchair accessibility, prompting the need for improvements. The board scrutinized the proposal, particularly concerning potential flooding risks and the necessity of a two-car garage.

Lucenta assured the board that a land survey confirmed no encroachment on neighboring properties. The board approved the application on the condition that a six-foot fence be installed along the property line to mitigate any issues arising from the garage’s proximity to the neighboring property.

The board also addressed a variance for a project on Amelia Place, presented by Darwin Fortuna of Flow Design Architects. The project aimed to convert a non-compliant structure into a more functional space by adding living areas. Fortuna highlighted the project’s alignment with neighborhood structures and the lack of opposition from neighbors. The board unanimously approved the variance, subject to standard conditions regarding the recording of the variance and site plan review approval.

Finally, the board discussed a special permit request from Phil Consolo for a property on Rice Avenue. The applicant requested a continuance due to an incomplete field survey. The board expressed concerns about the structure’s potential abandonment, with Councilor Janino withdrawing support after further investigation. The board ultimately denied the special permit based on the lack of proper plans and the structure’s status.