2023-12-14-ZBA-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Gilgun, stated the parking plan is not the best design but does contain more parking spots than the property requires because the requirement is only 9 spots and therefore restructuring of the plan can be done to address the parking spots of concern. Mr. Barnert, asked to confirm that there are 9 spots required for the property and who did the calculation (yes, 9 spots. Zoning Administrator, Julie Moore, calculated the need for 9 parking spots based on the lot). Board Member, Norman P. Cohen, asked to confirm that a liquor license is need to operate the proposed liquor store (Yes, the application has been made) Chair – Ralph D. Clifford stated he believes the location should possibly be brought up to ADA standards prior to approval. Mr. Gilgun stated that section 9.4.1. does not trigger that review and therefore is outside the scope of the Board and the permit shall be granted as long as any adverse effects do not outweigh the benefits. Mr. Clifford stated the involvement of citizens in wheelchairs is part of the purview of the Board and therefore ADA accommodations and compliance can be considered during the special permitting process. Mahvir Patel, 42 Stillman Road, Lynnfield, stated he believes an ADA compliant door has to be 36 inches wide and states if the current door is not compliant changes will be made to make it so if granted the permit. Board Member, Martha C. Wood, questioned if there is a way to make the it required that the property meet ADA standards. Mr. Clifford stated conditions can be added to the permit. No further comments or questions from the Board. Members of the Audience, whom are abutters (Sohail Mahboobi, 337 Woburn Street, Suresh Bobba, 2 Ralph Road, Akmal Sarwar 347 Woburn Street, Ewan Cameron, 12 Scotland Road, Paula Karim, 37 Justin Street, and Asma Sadef, 116 Emerson Gardens Road) shared arguments for their opposition to the Special Permit. They expressed they believe the proposed liquor store in the commercial zone is too close to their residential neighborhood and would negatively affect the neighborhood and the children within it. They believe additional trash would come from this permit being granted and would have potential to increase other things like violence, accidents and homicide. They also believe there are plenty of liquor stores in the proximity and stated they believe there are six (6) in existence in a 2-mile radius from the location, four (4) of which are in Town. They are extremely concerned about the adverse effects a liquor store at 333 Woburn street could have on their nearby residential neighborhood. Mr. Gilgun, stated the issues raised by the audience will be addressed if the permit is granted. They believe there are many benefits such as convenience to a liquor store, less daily foot traffic to the property, and a more beneficial use of the space as compared to the previously existing convenience store at the property. No further comments or questions from audience.