One of a notable topics was the proposal to amend the zoning map for two properties at 146 and Main Street. The board reviewed a petition presented by Rob Leveque on behalf of the Wils family to rezone the front portion of these properties from rural residential and residential B to residential C. This area, known for its seasonal rose sales, is underutilized, and the proposal aims to align the zoning with the adjacent condo development. Leveque also suggested that the back portion of the land could be utilized for recreational purposes, such as ball fields, a concept supported by the family. The board unanimously supported a positive recommendation to the city council based on the revised proposal, which could potentially accommodate around 50 housing units.

Another discussion centered around a petition by TV Realty and Development Inc. to rezone a 17-acre parcel at zero Lock House Road from industrial A to residential C, with plans to construct about 25 duplexes. Board members and public participants expressed concerns about the impact of nearby train tracks and the site’s accessibility, given that Lock House Road is currently a one-way street. The feasibility of changing the road’s direction to improve emergency access was debated, especially due to the limitations posed by a narrow wooden bridge that might require significant structural changes. Historical context was provided by participants who recalled the road’s previous two-way status.

The rezoning proposal for a property on Holyoke Road, presented by Rob Leveque on behalf of Michael Sitz, also sparked extensive discussion. The request aimed to transition the zoning from Residence B to Business B to integrate the Arrow Pharmacy and adjacent land into a contiguous business district while preserving the residential character along Holyoke Road. The board deliberated on the zoning implications, particularly the potential non-conformity of existing residential structures following the change. A positive recommendation was made with the understanding of maintaining a balance between residential preservation and business expansion.

Attention then shifted to a broader zoning ordinance amendment proposed by the city council, seeking to expand the allowable uses in the Industrial A district. The board revisited its informal recommendations, emphasizing that any new commercial uses should be contained within existing industrial structures to avoid turning industrial areas into retail spaces. This amendment was supported with the condition that new uses be restricted to existing buildings.

The meeting also addressed compliance issues on Lock House Road, where a berm intended to shield a self-storage facility from view did not meet the expected standards. Concerns were raised about the berm’s width and the quality of plantings, with a member stressing the importance of consistent enforcement of aesthetic guidelines. The board proposed sending a letter to the developers to ensure maintenance of the plantings and discussed increasing the planting density to adhere to the approved landscape plan.

The session concluded with a discussion on landscaping compliance for a development project, focusing on species of trees specified in the planning documents that were not fully installed as agreed. The board debated whether to enhance existing greenery with additional trees or replace them altogether, ultimately emphasizing the need for compliance with approved plans. Proposals to send maintenance plan requests to developers were considered to ensure future adherence to landscape agreements.