Zoning Board of Appeals

Meeting Minutes ___________Tuesday, December 20th, 2023 ZBA Board Chair: John Atwater ZBA Board Members: X John Atwater (Chair) X Anthony Karella X Matthew Waugh (Vice-Chair) Lisa Jaffe Steven Lytwyn Robert Ferris (Associate member) X Tim Garaceau (Associate member) Absent: Lisa Jaffe, Steven Lytwyn, Robert Ferris MEETING AGENDA Public Hearings Easthampton Housing Authority - seeking a Special Permit under Section 11.11 and 12.7 to alter a preexisting non-conforming use (multiple residential buildings) by adding approximately 30 parking spaces, maintenance building, and associated site work, stormwater system, lighting, etc. Property is located on Allen Street (Map 157, Lot 57) in the R-15 zoning district. Representing the applicant: Ronald Mendez The applicant presented the project in terms of the submitted materials summarized as follows: • The first parking area is to be used primarily for Housing Authority vehicles and equipment. • The second parking area is to provide 19 parking spaces for visitors • The bioretention area will be in place to mitigate the impact that the improved surfaces will have on stormwater runoff. • As part of this application, the Housing Authority is seeking permission build a maintenance • building, but stated they are looking to start the construction of the build sometime after the • parking lot.The intent to leave as much of the existing vegetation as possible during construction. Public Comment The following members of the public spoke, summarized as follows: • Ken Pepin asked whether the detention basin would overflow into his property. Discussion Member Garaceau was looking for clarity on why the applicant was applying under 11.11 and 12.7., since a pre-existing non-conforming use approved under those sections, Planner Maxfield stated any modification to the plan requires approval from the ZBA under those sections, because parking would be considered a secondary use. Location of parking would not need to be considered for the setback requirements. Member Karella motioned to approve the special permit, Member Waugh seconded, the vote passed unanimously. Member Karella motioned to adjourn, Member Waugh seconded, the vote passed unanimously.