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In its first meeting of the new year, the Zoning Board of Appeals dealt with some new issues but spent a large part of its meeting, held remotely and in the Town Council Chambers on the now familiar 19 Dean mixed use project. In attendance were Bruce Hunchard–Chairman, Robert Acevedo–Vice Chairman, Philip Brunelli-Clerk, Meghan Whitmore–Associate, and Chris Stickney
Shortly after being called to order on January 13, at 7:30 pm, the commission first looked at an application related to Parcel 304-064 Washington Street, Franklin Flex Space, LLC. The applicant was seeking to conduct earth removal in excess of 1,000 cubic yards, which requires a special permit.
The applicant explained that there is a need for more earth movement, and how much is planned (nearly 17,000 cubic yards), and said the planned removal would occur from 7am to 5 pm six days a week (Monday through Saturday.
The public was invited to comment. Karen Miller, who lives nearby, expressed concern about the truck traffic involved and the potential for ongoing spillage of soil and stones on the roadway.
After discussing these concerns and hearing from the applicant regarding how they plan to manage and mitigate, the Board voted unanimously to approve the application.
Then, it was on to 19 Dean Avenue, which first entered the approval process during the summer.
The applicant, Dean Development Partners LLC, is seeking to construct a mixed-use building that needs a Special Permit or Variance for up to 50’ in height. The 19 Dean Avenue site is located directly behind the Dean Bank property. The project also needs a Special Permit to demolish a preexisting non-conforming building and a Special Permit or variance to waive the 15’ setback on frontage, a Special Permit or Variance to construct residential units one-half story above street level, a variance or other relief to allow usage without off street parking, and a Variance, Special Permit or other relief to reduce rear setback to 1.2’
All of those “needs” taken together have made for a challenging approval process with neighbor, Dean Bank, expressing specific concern about how the project can be conducted without significantly impacting the operations of the Bank.
There were many concerns and questions from the board regarding perceived changes in the plans since they were first submitted and, above all, the lack of a plan showing how construction activities could be conducted on such a small site without adversely impacting abutters.
But the project was also cited for its ability to better address drainage issues and improve and old, non-conforming property.
With so many issues still up in the air and no agreement in sight, the Board approved a further extension to Jan. 27.
A much more straightforward request came next.
Timothy and Michele Roberts 4 Corrine Road, -sought a Special Permit and variance to construct a second floor addition to accommodate additional bedrooms and add the accessory dwelling unit to the first floor. They also s ought to construct a front porch that is 34.5’ from the front setback where 40’ is required. The applicants explained that they want a family member to move into their home and need to modify it to accomodate that. Architect Chris Novelli also noted their driveway is wide enough to accomodate the additional vehicles involved.
After a brief discussion, the Board approved the Special Permit and Variance.
The final matter involved Parcel 219-178-002-000- Bruce Wheeler, the Applicant wanted to modify a previously approved comprehensive permit. Due in part to some individuals not being able to get to the hearing, the Board opted to postpone the matter until the 27th.
