The Zoning & Planning Committee approved the following (see the report and watch the meeting video):
- Appointment (8-0) Ruth Goldman to the Community Preservation Committee (CPC). Term to expire 9/15/2028.
- Reappointments (8-0) Martin Smargiassi (CPC) with a term expiring on 7/10/2028, and Elizabeth Sweet to the Zoning Board of Appeals with a term expiring on 9/19/2028.
The Zoning and Planning Committee held:
- Residential façade build-out ratio (8–0 ) A public hearing was set for Oct. 14, 2025; Planning shared a compromise proposal targeting a 60% maximum façade build-out, with exemptions and a de minimis allowance to encourage rehab.
- Preservation of existing homes and multi-residence setbacks (8–0); discussed concurrently with the above item.
- Align zoning to proposed use (8–0) City staff outlined a two-phase path (targeted parcel rezonings; or citywide dimensional updates / Adams Street overlay) to improve contextual fit for residential projects in business zones. Held for further discussion.
- Manufacturing (MAN) district near Nonantum (8–0) Discussion on a Planning Department memo that described short-term zoning changes and a longer-term planning study framework to improve manufacturing districts.
Attendees: Councilors Baker (Chair), Oliver, Albright, Wright, Kalis, Getz, Danberg, Krintzman; Also Present: Councilors Malakie, Kelley, Block; Staff: Deputy Director Jen Caira, Chief of Long-Range Planning Zack LeMel, Senior Assistant City Solicitor Andrew Lee.
