Feb13
1
STAFF REPORT
PERMIT
TYPE
PUBLIC
HEARING
DATE
PROPERTY ADDRESS/ ZONE/LOT SIZE
SITE PLAN
FEB 13, 2020
7:00 PM 3 WRIGHT AVE/URC/6,530
OWNER EXISTING
USE
MONARCH VACANT
Summary of Request:
The applicant seeks to convert a residential lot to parking now that the parcel has been purchased
and ownership is merged with the parcel in which NETA marijuana dispensary and retail shop is
located.
Zoning Compliance
Commercial parking areas in residential districts require site plan review. 350-11.6.
Issues:
NETA continues to pay for police detail by their choice based upon the number of visits per day.
This is similar to holiday detail that some retailers pay to have during peak shopping periods.
On Street parking along Conz Street: See photo that shows the area of public parking that has
been blocked off since NETA opened. The Police Chief has stated that she has no concerns
with this parking being once again made available as long as there are no issues with
Department of Public Works. Staff believes this should be once again made available to the
public.
SITE
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New lot should be available for customers and not just employees. NETA has been leasing from
the Marriot Hotel to allow employees to park there. Since there is excess parking at the hotel,
it seems appropriate that these spaces continue to be utilized.
No lighting for the lot is shown. Board should clarify that none is planned. There is likely
ample street lighting to cover the site.
There appears to be enough grassed area along the proposed fence. Given that 2 18” Birch are
being removed for this site, it would be appropriate to have 2 new River Birch planted along
the fence line.
At least 2 bike loops should be installed between the new lot and the building.
Staff Recommendation
Approve Approve with Conditions Deny
Staff recommends approval of the site plan with conditions:
1. The applicant shall remove barriers to on-street parking along Conz Street/ ensure that
this is reopened to the public.
2. 2 River Birch shall be planted 2” caliper (per trunk if multi-trunked).
3. 2 bike rack loops shall be installed on site.
Plus any other conditions the Board might find appropriate or that Department of Public Works
recommends.
APPROVAL CRITERIA from 11.6/
(1) The requested use protects adjoining premises against seriously detrimental uses. If applicable,
this shall include provision for surface water drainage, sound and sight buffers and preservation of
views, light, and air; and
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(2) The requested use will promote the convenience and safety of vehicular and pedestrian
movement within the site and on adjacent streets, minimize traffic impacts on the streets and roads
in the area. If applicable, this shall include considering the location of driveway openings in
relation to traffic and adjacent streets, access by emergency vehicles, the arrangement of parking
and loading spaces, and provisions for persons with disabilities; and
(3) The requested use will promote a harmonious relationship of structures and open spaces to the
natural landscape, existing buildings and other community assets in the area; and
(4) The requested use will not overload, and will mitigate adverse impacts on, the City's resources
including the effect on the City's water supply and distribution system, sanitary and storm sewage
collection and treatment systems, fire protection, streets and schools; and
(5) The requested use meets any special regulations set forth in this chapter (none in particular)
a) Curb cuts onto streets shall be minimized. Access to businesses shall use common driveways,
existing side streets, or loop service roads shared by adjacent lots when possible. More than one
curb cut shall be permitted only when necessary to minimize traffic and safety impacts.
b). Pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular traffic movement on site must be separated, to the extent
possible,
(6) The requested use bears a positive relationship to the public convenience or welfare. The use
will not unduly impair the integrity of character of the district or adjoining zones, nor be
detrimental to the health, morals, or general welfare. The use shall be in harmony with the general
purpose and intent of the ordinance; and
(7) If applicable, the requested use will promote City planning objectives to the extent possible and
will not adversely affect those objectives, as defined in City master or study plans adopted under
MGL c. 41, § 81C and 81D.
Other items:
Please see this link for the zoning ordinances that are on the agenda:
Proposed Zoning Amendments