2022-05-26-ZBA-min - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

second car to be behind it. She doesn’t think traffic will be blocked as trucks will wait on Waltham Street). There were no further questions from the Board. Mr. Delli Caprini stated they currently have tractor trailers pulling into the site, the existing situation probably creates situations where they are sticking out into the road more now than the proposed design. People can navigate the facility now without accidents. The proposed design will not cause any more issues. Other stations in town have used this design as well. Mr. Farrington stated the current configuration is not a modern, safe configuration compared to Cumberland Farms. The first three fueling stations closest to Concord Ave are a problem. Folks leave their cars to go into the store. Traffic engineers and site operators testify this is a safer more efficient method of circulation. The site is abutted on two sides by a RO zone. They submitted a diagram that shows if all setbacks were mandated the useable area is reduced by 2/3 leaving 7,200 sq. ft. of buildable area. This renders the site with limited usefulness. Wagon Wheel is a commercial operation in a residential zone. When the site was built in 1947 the 30’ setback from residential areas was not in effect. It is appropriate here to allow a closer than 30’ setback to the residential zone where extensive sound deadening would be provided and extensive landscaping would be provided to minimize the impact on residents. The dumpster was also moved out of consideration for the resident. Ms. Guglielmo stated they had gone through several iterations of this plan. The existing site layout would require 11 special permits. Additional square feet of building are for ADA compliance. The site needs proper safety circulation. The Hearing was closed at 8:04 pm (a role call was taken: Ralph D. Clifford– Yes, William P. Kennedy – Yes, Martha C. Wood – Yes, Norman P. Cohen – Yes and Nyles N. Barnert – Yes). The Board discussed the setback variance. Mr. Barnert stated the shape of the lot would be used to justify this variance. The Board agreed. Mr. Clifford stated they have to keep in mind the size of the lot, which is not sufficient for the zoning variance because that affects all lots equally. The curve is the issue. Mr. Clifford questioned the substantial hardship. Associate member, William P. Kennedy, stated this lot was the same size as it was in 1947. The zoning bylaws have changed sense then. Its impossible to have a business there and comply with the laws. Mr. Cohen stated the new plan is much better. This site needs to be fixed up. Ms. Wood stated she can think of three gas stations where the building abuts a residential area and the buildings are as close as this one. They are looking at business sustainability. She stated she favors this. Alternate Member, Beth Masterman, stated they have done a good job at responding to the issues. This is a good plan.