Zoning Board of Appeals — June 8, 2026
The meeting was procedural, with primary discussions focused on technical site details and scheduling continuances.
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Public impact
ZBA-2026-15: 123 University Ave Conversion
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The applicant requested variances for minimum parking requirements and load zone ordinances to facilitate a high-density residential and commercial conversion.
The board granted a motion to continue the matter.
The hearing is rescheduled for June 22, 2026.
Decisions logged
Topics discussed
▶ 00:03 ZBA-2026-15: Variance for 123 University Ave
The applicant requested a continuance for a petition to convert an existing building into two commercial units and twelve studio apartments.
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The property is located in a traditional mixed-use (T-MU) zoning district. The project requires variance relief for minimum parking requirements and other load zone ordinances.
The board granted a motion to continue the matter.
The hearing is rescheduled for June 22, 2026.
▶ 02:54 ZBA-2026-21: Variance for 80 Manchester Street
A request for variances regarding front yard setback and building height to construct a new carriage house/garage.
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The applicant, represented by Matt Hammer, proposed a non-residential carriage house to house two vehicles, including a sprinter van. Key points of discussion included the property's historical context, the mitigation of a previous tree removal issue (noted as an oak, not a sycamore), the use of radiant driveway heating, and concerns regarding whether the structure could be converted into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).
The board approved the variance with specific landscaping conditions.
▶ 38:56 Approval of Meeting Minutes
The board reviewed and voted on the approval of the minutes from the May 28, 2026, meeting.
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The board requested any edits or revisions to the minutes from the previous meeting held on May 28, 2026.
The minutes were approved unanimously.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
ZBA-2026-21: 80 Manchester Street Carriage House
Action items
Notable statements
We're contesting that it was more than twenty feet [from the tree line]... we're prepared to certify to that assertion. — Speaker E (Matt Hammer) · Addressing DPD comments regarding the protection of a tree (identified as an oak) near the lot line. ▶ 10:59
I would just make the condition that we look at adding two shade trees to lot, one on Wyman and one on Manchester. — Speaker B (Mr. McCarthy) · Suggesting landscaping conditions to address the removal of a previous shade tree. ▶ 32:47
Public comment
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grok-4.3, gemma-4-26b, grok-4.20-0309-reasoning, grok-4-fast · analyzed 2026-06-09.