2008-06-25-PB-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 4 Minutes for the Meeting of June 25, 2008 ***************************SUBDIVISION ADMINISTRATION*************************** 341 Marrett Road, Preliminary Balanced Housing Development (BHD): In attendance were Rick Waitt and Brian Timm of Meridian Associates, Ron Lopez, applicant, Doug Rae and Dan Harrington, attorney. Mr. Zurlo had recused himself originally because he had lived in the carriage house and made a development proposal approximately six years ago. There was also a matter of a personal debt to the previous property owners which had been forgiven by one of the parties. The State Ethics Commission said he recommended full disclosure but recusal was not required. Mr. Hornig said the main discussion points were where the bulk of the development would be located, either in the flat area or moved towards Wachusett Driveand perhaps with less gross floor area (GFA). Mr. Galaitsis said because of the slope the buildings with the cellars would appear to be four stories. He wanted the bottom floors to be counted as basements. Mr. Canale said in terms of the specific site and close proximity to Marrett Road and Waltham Street he wondered if this was an appropriate type of housing arrangement and was especially concerned with the excessive bulking of units 1-5. The applicant should reach out to the abutters. The next step no matter what it was should be looked at closely with regards to the height and bulk of the structures for units 1-5. Ms. Manz asked if there was a possibility of moving the units into the center and minimizing the roadway. Mr. Hornig said there were a lot of minor changes need such as the path and adjusting the location of the units. He was uncomfortable with the massing. Mr. Galaitsis said as the project now stands units 1-5 were massed against the property line on flatter ground. This area would contain 40-50% of the development, whereas with a conventional subdivision it would only contain 25% of the development. Mr. Zurlo said there was a significant issue with what was happening concerning units 1-5 and it could affect the number of units allowed. There needed to be significant work done to resolve these issues. He thought they might need to remove a unit, reposition the buildings, or change road access and grading.