Boston Zoning Board of Appeals Greenlights Multiple Housing Expansions

Overview: In a recent Boston Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, multiple proposals for expanding existing residential properties were approved, signaling growth and change within various Boston neighborhoods. This includes significant expansions such as the addition of living space to two-family dwellings, conversions of single-family houses into two-family dwellings, and legalizations of uncertain occupancies. Despite some neighborhood concerns over property use and potential impacts on open space, the board moved forward with approvals, often contingent on further design review or stipulations to address specific issues like tree preservation.

Revolution Hotel and Mighty Squirrel Brewing Eye Expanded Entertainment with Boston Entertainment Application Board Approval

Overview: In a recent virtual meeting, the Boston Entertainment Application Board deliberated on two prominent applications that could alter the city’s nightlife landscape. The Revolution Hotel and Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co. proposed to add various live entertainment options to their respective venues, extending activities until 1:00 a.m. The board addressed these applications by examining aspects such as soundproofing measures, community feedback, and security plans.

Boston Planning Board Tackles Development, Resilience, and Housing

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Boston Planning and Development Board discussed a range of topics, including the redevelopment of Roxbury parcels by the Garrison Trotter Neighborhood Association, a proposed project on Western Avenue, the transition of funds and employees from the Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) to the City of Boston, and a proposed hotel development at the historic Alexandria Hotel site.

Boston City Council Advances Initiatives in Recent Meeting

Overview: In a recent Boston City Council meeting, significant proposals and resolutions were discussed, leading to the unanimous approval of funding dockets for the Boston Police Department and other city initiatives.

Boston Disability Commission Tackles Behavioral Health and Accessibility

Overview: The Boston Disability Commission Advisory Board meeting focused on critical initiatives aimed at improving mental health services for young people and enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities throughout the city. The meeting featured a significant presentation by Dr. Kevin Simon, the city’s first appointed chief of behavioral health, who outlined the state of behavioral health in Boston and underscored the importance of addressing social determinants of mental health. The board also delved into discussions about the allocation of a one million dollar initiative to support behavioral health in students, efforts to include disability considerations in public space planning, and the implementation of accessibility measures for upcoming events.