Planning Board

The Planning Board opened with an administrative approval and then turned to several development-focused presentations and a public hearing. Members voted to approve an ANR for 39–41 Hillside Ave. Staff and board members heard an update on the disposition RFP for 5 and 9 School St.: the selected development team (Brad Kutcher and Mark Wojcicki) plans to restore the Ordway Building, reconstruct a Greek Revival house at 5 School St., and provide a 5-foot public walkway and parking arrangements; the application is expected in September. A pre-application for 27.5–29 Clarks Road (MinCo) outlined a 152-unit project in the East End Overlay/40R district with 109 parking spaces, trail connections to Point Shore, wetland-avoidance measures, and proposed affordable units at 80% AMI; staff and the Board discussed parking, traffic impacts, screening, utilities, and conservation coordination.

A public hearing for 38–40 Prospect St. presented a Historic Special Permit and Site Plan to rehabilitate two existing two-family buildings, define on-site parking for four units, and add a new single-family home on a corner lot; applicants incorporated Historical Commission feedback and plan screening and paved areas, with waivers anticipated for lot size and setbacks. The Board voted 6–0 to have staff draft a decision on that application for the August 11 meeting. Public comments (read into the record) raised concerns about parking, traffic timing for studies, construction impacts, and placement of affordable units; abutters expressed general support for upgrading the properties if parking is adequately addressed. The Board also approved payment of a consultant invoice (administrative) and adjourned at 9:04 PM.