The North End / Waterfront Neighborhood Council (NEWNC) will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, March 12, 2018, at 7:00pm at the Nazzaro Center, 30 N. Bennet Street.
There will be a discussion regarding the proposed two-story addition at 38 Fleet Street to make the building a 5-family dwelling, as well as a discussion regarding Scire Fruit’s request for a new Malt and Wine Package Store license.
A&J Art+Design will join the meeting to give an update on the North Square redesign. The Friends of the Boston HarborWalk will also present on the HarborWalk signage project.
See the full agenda below.
Is it worth going to one of these meetings if you oppose this new construction.?
Yes, especially if you are an abutter. NEWNC and NEWRA are strictly advisory to the ZBA and Licensing Board . Even if a request passes these groups the city has the final say. If you have a legit reason for opposing something. you can ( and probably should) attend the ZBA meeting if you can take make it.
Possibly….depends. If for example the 2 story addition still falls under the “as of right” 55ft height restriction, it’ll probably pass unless you’ve got some valid argument such as blocking window or something. Over the 55ft and you’ve got a voice. Really depends on what you’re objecting to.
” Even if a request passes these groups the city has the final say.”
I think that’s all anyone needs to know…if the city wants it, it gets done.
Thanks for your responses!
FYI, the 55ft height restriction isn’t the only relevant zoning regulation that merits enforcement. Owners don’t typically come before the neighborhood associations out of common courtesy, but because they are seeking support for a variance concerning one or more zoning violations. North Enders shoould definitely speak out at these meetings against proposed developments that they feel will adversely affect their neighborhood. The zoning laws become meaningless if variances are allowed to be handed out like parking permits. If enough residents come out and object, they might even be able to persuade the Council not to rubber stamp every request that comes before them!
Yes, we are advisory to the City of Boston, but it is important we hear from the community so we can make informed decisions on whether we vote to support or oppose items that come before the Council.
We are always open to the public and encourage attendance. We also have Community Chats which are open forums to discuss issues related to the North End. Past discussions included the nursing home, park renovations, our religious societies, and many more.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us directly at NEWNCBoston@gmail.com. I hope to see you all at the Nazzaro this Monday at 7.
Thank you!
John Pregmon
President, NEWNC