Attorney Stephen H. Merman represented the applicant, explaining that All City Electrical, currently operating at the site, sought the expansion to enhance display areas and inventory management. The application required two variances due to existing non-conformities and proposed changes. Mr. Vulpe, representing All City Electrical, assured the board that the expansion would not increase foot traffic as the business model relies more on consultations and deliveries than walk-in customers. He emphasized that the expansion is geared towards improving business efficiency and vendor compliance rather than boosting customer volume.

Residents living near the business, including Courtney Penacook and Peter Mahabier, voiced their concerns over parking, particularly on Winthrop Road, which is adjacent to the site. They highlighted issues such as tight parking space availability, street cleaning challenges, and visibility problems caused by large vehicles. Mr. Vulpe responded by stating that his employees typically leave the site early in the morning and that the business has the capacity to park nine trucks inside the facility overnight, which should help alleviate street parking congestion. He also expressed willingness to explore a parking permit program if necessary to address neighborhood concerns.

The board deliberated on how the expansion might affect the local community, acknowledging the challenges posed by the business’s operations in a residential area. They discussed the potential for implementing parking solutions, such as no-parking signs or resident parking permits, to ease congestion. One board member suggested that Mr. Vulpe remind his employees and contractors to utilize on-site parking to mitigate street parking issues.

Architect Paulo Dantes provided an overview of the construction plans, which include adding a second floor and maintaining the building’s existing footprint. Engineer and planner Victor Vingra noted that the project would not exacerbate pre-existing variances, stating that the proposed changes would not require demolishing any part of the structure. He addressed the parking concerns by indicating that limited activity within the building suggested minimal parking demand.

Despite these assurances, the board recognized the ongoing tension between commercial operations and residential stability. They emphasized the importance of balancing business needs with the quality of life for residents, showing a collective interest in finding feasible solutions to the parking challenges.

In the later stages of the meeting, the board expressed a positive sentiment towards the expansion, noting the architectural improvements proposed and the applicant’s willingness to address neighborhood concerns. The board members unanimously voted to grant the requested variances, supporting the expansion as a suitable enhancement for the site. A follow-up meeting to approve the resolution was scheduled for November 13.