I'm calling the uh town of Eong Meadow Planning Board meeting of Tuesday, May 5th, 2026 to order. First order of business, I have to ask if there's anyone in the audience who might be recording this meeting. If so, would you please state your name? Hearing none,
I'll ask one more time. If anyone's in the audience recording this, please state your name and the method you're recording. Hearing none. Roll call. >> Anderson Russell Denver. Robert Tro >> Robillo, director of planning.
>> Um, we need the approval of the April 21st, 2026 meeting minutes. Do I have a motion to approve? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Motion made and second. Any discussion? Hearing none. All in favor say I. >> I.
>> So, um, two announcements. So, both items under public hearings require a special permit that requires four affirmative votes of the planning board. As you can see, we're down one member this evening. Um, so the petitioners,
you can at your request, uh, you can ask that we open the meeting, take testimony, and then if you wish, you could wait until all five members are here before you take a vote. So, we'll give you that option to do that. And due to scheduling issues and the town
election, which is on June 2nd, this board will not meet again until June 16th after this evening. So with that, I would ask the clerk to read the first item. Yes, sir. Case SP-20226-01, request for a special permit to operate
a restaurant at 55 White Avenue, assessor's parcel ID 27-41-14, located in the business zoning district. Applicant Robert Ceero, sorry, 38 Renlue Street, Springfield, Mass 0118.
>> So, I would ask the applicant or their representative to please come forward. >> Would you let the board uh know who you are? Of >> course. Uh, good evening. My name is John Tomky with RC Associates. Also here with me tonight is the applicant Robert Cicero and we are here to present to you
a special permit application to allow for a restaurant use within the business district. The project location is 55 White Avenue uh which is actually at the corner of White Avenue in Elm Street. This is the old uh species cleaners, the
old laundromat. Um and what the applicant is proposing to do is turn it into a restaurant. Uh the existing building is located on the southwest portion of the the property. Uh the building there will be no changes to the building. It will sit you can utilize the same footprint as it is and all the
changes will take place inside. Uh there is existing parking on site. One of the things we are proposing is to formalize the parking to make it uh safer we would hope um by creating oneway directional flow through the site. There are two curb cuts. There's one on Elm Street,
one on White Ab as probably everyone knows. So, we're proposing to have oneway traffic enter in on White Avenue and exit onto Elm Street. We are proposing 10 parking spaces. There' be no expansion of the parking. It would utilize the same footprint that is
there. Um, uh, all utilities would be ma maintained as they are, uh, currently. Um, as I said, the the surrounding properties are residential. There's an existing uh
pretty decent buffer between fence lines and and trees and shrubs along the perimeter to to sort of screen the project itself. Uh, we are proposing a dumpster as well in the rear. Um, I mean, that's it in a nutshell. We have with, like I said, we have there are 10
parking spaces. We're required to have uh one space for each three seats within the restaurant. There are we're proposing 30 seats. So 10 park spaces. So um the main entrance would be at the corner uh here and then there would be
two I believe there's two employee entrances towards the rear in the kitchen area. >> So where are you going to prepare the food on the first floor? >> Uh yes it would be in the rear the building. This side of Actually I do have footprint here.
>> Oh I see in the back of the building. Yeah. So this is uh this is Elm Street and White Ab this the corner so that you enter here. Uh there'd be two entrances towards the rear. Um I think the counter of the laundromat was over here maybe. I don't >> No, it was it was towards the entrance
>> over here. Yeah. Only been there once or twice years ago. Um so yeah, kitchen area is in the back. The seating area is here. Restrooms over in this area. >> Good questions. >> So I'm going to talk about the parking. So, um, angled parking,
>> correct? >> Okay. And signage for parking. >> Um, >> to direct people on the one way. >> Yeah. I mean, there something we could add is, you know, a do not enter sign in here because obviously I think people
probably are used to probably coming in this way. >> You will be adding >> and then and two you people figure out what the traffic pattern is. I think >> are you going to have big arrows, the big paint? Yeah, there'll be painted arrows on the pavement as well. Yeah, >> but definitely a do not enter sign. >> Yeah, I Yes, that makes sense.
>> Okay. And where will the dumpster be located? >> It would be located right here. >> Um, it would a pickup would be off hours because it would it would require the truck to come in this way to make the easiest movement. >> So, you reference off hours, correct? So
when we have put um restaurants or permitted restaurants in town, number one concern from the residents has always been hours of pickup of trash and dumpsters and so forth. >> So we don't want to see pickup at 6:00
in the morning. >> Sure. >> So we will probably we approve it put in a condition that it not be, you know, prior to 7:00 in the morning. >> Sure. >> Type type of situation. Yeah. >> Understand that. and whoever you use, they know what we do here in Esau Metal.
Just to make sure of that, >> how about hours of operation in days, >> do you want to speak to that or >> Yeah. Um, so >> please sign in if you haven't done that. >> Um, yeah. So, you said hours. >> You introduce yourself. >> I'm Robert Cicero. Um I'm looking to
own. It's okay. Um yeah. Um so we're going to be closed on Tuesdays all day. Um and then Monday to Sunday will be 10:30 to 7:00 p.m. >> Oh, okay. Good. >> You can have the dumpster stuff and your deliveries done.
>> Oh, yeah. Yep. That's the plan. Yep. >> And I have a question. Is that going to be the same thing for deliveries as well? 10 to >> 10:30 to 7:00 p.m. >> Okay. Yeah. >> Yeah. Anything that's going to cause >> Correct. There's neighbors right there. It's >> a disturbance, >> right? >> We don't want the beeping,
>> but you know, all all of that. >> Understandable. >> So, um you do So, I got out and walked it today. So, there is some uh shrubbery >> uh and there's a beat up old fence. >> Um are you going to improve on that?
>> I see shrubbery planted here. Probably the majority of the shrubs are on the abuing property. The the existing pavement does go pretty close to the property line. So while there is a buffer, it's probably mostly on the abudding property, but there's no I mean there's not much that to enhance it in
any way, but it is pretty well screened. >> Stockade fence. >> Stockade fence. >> It's a stockade fence that's not in the best condition. Yeah. that I believe is I believe it's on the neighbor's property. >> Okay. >> And the type of cuisine
>> it's going to be um like made to order gourmet sandwiches, uh steak and cheeses, um Italian sausage, pepper and onions, stuff like that. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Do you intend to offer any delivery like Door Dash or something? >> Um not for my first 6 months. I don't believe I will. Um I want to prove my
concept before I get into any of that. >> Yeah. So just repeating history. So with other restaurants, so that does become an issue um because they're not really counted for your um you know some so
somebody parking spaces per seats and so if you're have a very successful takeout business with Door Dash, it creates more traffic. And then where do those people park? Because as she knows, they don't listen when you tell them what to do. And so that becomes something that I
give a little thought to. >> Okay. >> On that. So, >> no problem. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Questions? >> Um, the proposed screening for the dumpster is proposed as uh >> stock >> stockade fence. Okay. Um,
is there any outdoor plans? Okay. Because there's not really much space. >> No, no outdoor plans. >> Okay. >> Yeah. here. >> Yep. >> One question I wanted to bring up to the board is the issue of off streetet parking on White Avenue. >> Oh, yeah. >> Yeah. So, I just want to throw that out
there. Thank you. >> No parking on the road. >> There's successful and then there's really successful. And so, if you're in your busy times when your lot fills up, we really don't want people parking obviously on Elm or on what or on White.
It's a residential street. Are there no parking signs on Elm? Because there should be some no parking signs. Absolutely. >> So, to my knowledge, I know some of the side streets allow for on street parking, but you can condition this business to not allow for customers to
park on the street if they're coming inside the business. >> A really bad place to park in. >> Yeah. >> And because right there on the corner, I know I was talking to the town manager about this this morning. You said a lot of the main roads banned on street parking, but a lot of those side streets and neighborhoods, including White
Avenue and I think Elm, I could be wrong, but Elm, I know White Avenue definitely allows for on street parking just in general. So, I mean, you could decide as a board whether you would rather have no on street parking for this business, which you have the right to do, or you could allow for it under
certain circumstances. I mean, that's kind of your prerogative to to figure out what you want to do there. Well, if the parking lots are full, excuse me, that's maximum >> for the tables in the place. So, I would say no on street parking. >> I think it's a bad spot right there in um which street is it?
>> White. >> Elmer White. >> We have Yeah, >> both. >> Y I would say so I do uh in your packets uh towards the end where the conditions are, I do have that as a possible condition. >> Could discuss um that and a few other
items as well. So that be a conversation for later. Sure. Gary, definitely your your choice. >> For what it's worth, there's a big parking lot directly across the street. May there's a few others that have had busy businesses and they've reached out and asked if overflow parking could go there. So, >> are you talking about Pride's parking lot?
>> Well, reform was Yeah. >> Um there's an opportunity there for whomever is now the current owner. just don't want >> I I want you to be successful, but I don't want you to be so successful that people are parking at Romeo's and
crossing right there because that is a very busy and most people don't pay attention to crosswalks. So, yeah. But, okay. Anything else you want to add before we ask anyone else who would like to talk about this to come up? I thank you for the opportunity. Sure. Sure.
Thank you. If anyone else would like to be heard, please step forward, sign in. Hi. >> Good evening. How are you? >> Good. Have a seat. Hi, my name is Christine Greco. I live on um 20 Pleasant Street, but my
driveway is on White A at the very top. >> Yep. >> Um >> should I address you or everyone or how does this >> Right. You can address us. >> Um just had a couple questions about um actually the width of White Street is very narrow and I'm concerned about I've
had a couple cars not make the turn and hit almost hit my house, hit the tree, hit my mailbox, hit a couple things. So, um just wondering about what the traffic is going to look like. Um not so sure that
that I want cars coming in off of White cuz they'll probably scoot down the street and in that way. I just don't know if it's a better option to have them come in off of Elm. Um just something to think about cuz there's no other businesses. It's all residential and um I've lived there for
I don't know 25 30 years and it's a very sharp turn and there's some kids and the kids ride their bikes >> and it's just concerning to me um that the kids will come down the hill >> and I just get concerned with the traffic cuz um the kids are coming down
on their bikes and the cars are whipping up. It just concerns me that >> you'd have the exit traffic instead of the entering traffic. Well, unless they come from like Wilberham, come down White A and shoot in that way. >> I'm just saying if if you put the traffic flow the other way, they're
going to come out on White A. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Not going to allow any park in there on White AB. >> And um >> And do you have that same issue with the I know it won't be as busy. Uh this would be busier, but you've got uh the accounting firm right across the street
on White Avenue. Where are those people? Do they go out? Do they go out? >> Right. I think that's a different um >> different environment. >> It's a different like the people, you know, I don't know how many people come in and how often. I think during tax season maybe, but the rest of the year, I think >> there's an armed gate there anyway.
>> Okay. >> I think the gate's broken. Um it hasn't been there in a while, but people can come in um from Pleasant also. >> Right. >> Um I think I I feel there's someone that parks their truck there and blocks that a lot of the time. >> So >> I've never been able to use it. I know
that much. Yeah, there's usually a big truck now that just blocks it. So, I don't know what that's about. Um, one of my concerns also is the lighting. I thought that the town had a bylaw that there's not supposed to be lighting that like shoots out from a building. It's going to be one of the conditions that
the lighting has to face down. >> Okay. >> Okay. cuz I know that the new guest the gas station put in a light that shines right in my bedroom now cuz I my house overlooks like I can see right out that window and I'll be able to see the building and I don't know how that was allowed but that light's right my face
it shines from the building out towards me >> that shouldn't be allowed so I would make sure I make somebody aware of that >> yeah so we'd have to go back and look and maybe Rob you can do this go back and look at the original conditions on the pride station.
>> Sure. >> And see what their lighting called for and if they're in violation, we >> Yeah. >> would have the zoning enforcement officer go in and make >> Thank you. I did call and um also about the bank cuz the key bank lights are right out like that. I'm just hoping that this wouldn't have the lights. It would be on like a pole shining at the
building, not on the building shining out. Um and then if this does get approved for a restaurant use, does it open it up to a different restaurant? So this if this permit is granted, it's
awarded to the petitioner only. >> Okay. >> And then if there's a change in ownership, they would have to come back and >> this. Okay. I'm just concerned about like my like I said, my bedroom windows there. So if it's a restaurant that's like have like really distinctively smelling food, I don't want to be
smelling that 24/7. >> So So why don't we ask you about your odor suppression if you have such a thing? Um yeah, we have ventilation and good system. We set it all and brand new air conditioning in the building. So
Okay, >> good. Cuz someone reminded me yesterday of the former coffee roaster that apparently it put out quite the odor and they had to do something about that. Do you remember that? >> Yeah. How about the restaurant at the Four Corners? It's a smoke stack two days a week.
>> Okay. >> Um what about alcohol? >> Okay. Um, the >> alcohol permit is granted through the town council. Okay. >> I got a big shaking of the head back there. Yeah. Right. Yeah.
>> Um, and then yeah, my only thing is the parking. I know I I know there's like kids that live right and I can't speak for them, but I just get concerned about the parking and if there if it spills onto white a >> it's not going to be allowed to. >> Okay. What what will h like will someone
monitor and ticket them or >> Well, I'm going to ask that the no parking sign be put there. Somebody's there. >> They're there illeg illegally. So, >> Okay. >> Okay. Great. Thank you so much. Sure. >> Appreciate it. >> There's anyone else like to be heard on
this matter? Please step forward. >> Quick. Um, so, hi, my name is Marie Boucher. I'm a honor at uh 37 White Avenue. I'm three houses down from the property. Um, I wanted to kind of run back to the conversation we just had about the
proposed parking recommending coming in through Elm and out through White. Um, I had the same idea about traffic on White. I agree there's lots of kids, there's lots of animals. Um, kids use the street. Um, people walk on the street, so I definitely have those same concerns. Um, my suggestion would be
when exiting the property onto White um, if we could do a right turn only. And so that would eliminate any >> they won't they won't be exiting through white. >> But if you change it, that's what I'm suggesting. Um so if they we change the parking so that you enter through Elm,
exit through White, and then have a right turn only, there's no option to really travel on the majority of the residential area of White. Um would just be my suggestion if that's something we could consider. Um because I'm definitely worried about the increased
traffic, especially, you know, hoping if it does get implemented. It is successful. Delivery drivers are huge. Um pickup orders are huge. Um those are people who are going to be coming in and out quick. Um on a street that really right now doesn't have a lot of traffic.
Um so that would just be my one consideration. Um and then the other comment I had was related to parking. And I know we discussed we're not going to allow um customer parking. Um would those signs explicitly state no customer parking because I know a lot of the residents on white
>> parking just no parking >> rely on those street parking because we have single driveways and so if you have more than resident one resident with a car per household you have to play a lot of like car charades. Um, so my only comment would be maybe if we could have
signs that say no no no customer park >> no parking period. That's what it's going to say. Those signs but >> her point is then it impacts residents have people >> who rely on street parking. >> Street parking >> but I understand that's not our property but when we purchase the homes we
>> anybody park between the the driveway entrance now on White Street and >> I know one of my neighbors regularly parks on the street. I personally don't not down at the corner um but up towards >> you don't want to put them on the whole street. You just want to put them in front of the building.
>> Yeah. Just where just between Elm Elm Street and the entrance to the uh the parking lot. >> So how would that prevent customers from parking in front of my property and the property of other residents on the street? >> Well, if the parking lot's full, that means they're at capacity, so they
shouldn't be there anyway. >> That's not enforceable. Yes, it is. That's >> how It's every >> head count if it gets gets out of hand. >> So I can I can chime in here. So usually the way we do these things is that it's a mechanism to enforce it and usually it
prompts the business owner to make us customers aware they can't park there. So if enough residents on the street come to us and say hey you know I don't know what your business is called so I'm just going to say sandwich shop. Um sandwich shop is generating a lot of traffic from my house. People are damaging my lawn stuff like that. Usually we send our code enforcement
officer to go there and address it with the business owner to set up a plan on how they can resolve the issue. That's usually how we do it. Uh for folks in the audience as well, like if there's any sort of complaints you have for any businesses that have a permit with this board, you can actually reach out to the building department and uh the building
commissioner usually enforces the zoning regulations. Sure. >> Okay. >> Great. And then that was all my comments. Okay. Thank you. >> Thanks. Question for you. >> If you change the flow from Elm Street to White A, you're going to lose some
parking spaces. Correct. With the angle parking, >> uh, we'd have to look it would >> Yeah. >> I mean, without doing the layout, it it would seem you'd probably lose parking. >> Um, >> which would diminish the number of seats. >> I think if you reversed it, you'd probably encourage more people to go nonwide out than
on exiting anyway. So, >> is anyone else Oh, go ahead. No, that's fine. Yeah, go ahead and finish. >> No, no. I just want to say such a short distance, the side of the building isn't that long, so they put one no parking sign there. I never see anybody park down there anyway, but then it won't bother the rest of you folks on the
street that have to alternate your parking. I never see anybody park here anyway. >> Right at the corner. Yeah. Of White and Elm. >> Anyone else like to be heard on this matter? Please step forward.
Okay. If no one else wants to be heard on this matter, do I have a motion to close the public hearing? >> So move. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Hearing none. All in favor of closing the public hearing say I. >> I. >> Okay. Goes back to us. So we do have
some proposed conditions that were provided by the planning director. Um so let me kind of read them in and when then we can discuss them. So, first the hours of operation shall be from 10:30 to 7:00
p.m. Um, with no being closed on Tuesdays. Okay. All necessary licenses to operate the intended business shall be obtained and kept current active at all times. The special permit is awarded to Robert Cicero. Any change in ownership of the business shall require
an amendment to the special permit. The proposed signage shall adhere to section 4550-5-8 of the zoning bylaw. The number of seats inside the restaurant shall not exceed 30. The flow of traffic on site shall be
one way and appropriately marked with signage, including but not limited to painted arrows. Posted signage at all times. Crash receptacles shall be screened from view at all times. And I'd like to add and to the immediate rear of the building.
>> It shows it. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Um exterior facing light shall be downcast and shielded to protect light spillage onto neighboring properties. Uh street parking associated with the proposed restaurant use is strictly
prohibited. And we would probably then ask the town or the applicant to work with the town to have a no parking any time between the driveway on White Street and Elm Street. >> And Elm Street also
>> and Elm Street. Yes. And Elm Street as well. Um we would act we would put a condition that any um pickup of trash receptacles, you know, the uh the dumpster andor any deliveries
take uh take place no earlier than 700 a.m. Um did I miss anything, Rob? >> Uh deliveries. >> Yes, deliveries shall be the same. Uh no earlier than 7:00 a.m.
>> Okay. And no later than 700 p.m. Yeah. >> That goes for So I just want to clarify. So deliveries of goods that the business needs, correct? >> Not like delivery drivers. >> No. Okay. >> And so I still have where I'm trying to visualize what you're going to do with
um is it GrubHub and >> Door Dash. So, um, you know, you really can't designate one spot for them to pull into because then it would impact the number of seats you can have in the restaurant.
So, what would you propose >> as far as having them not count towards the >> No, I I mean, how I mean, so you're going to have one entrance into the building, >> correct? >> And is it going to be the existing entrance that that was there before?
>> That's right. So, >> I can't remember after I walked it today. Is there a rear entrance to the facility? >> There's actually two. >> Okay. >> Um, >> can you make one of them a uh a pickup? >> Um, it would be a little difficult cuz
those two entrances are going to be like directly kind of into our kitchen area. Um, so that's why we made the customer only entrance right at the front. And then the other two would obviously employees could come and then delivery drivers would just pull in the parking lot, come through that other entrance on
the side. Um there might >> somebody who deals with the delivery drivers on a daily basis, I can see running the problem of them parking between the no parking signs with their hazards on to just run in if the door is just on the corner. So I see what you're
saying. >> I want to get him in off the street. R is what I'm trying to do. There there could there's a space right here >> ability at at the north end of the building here >> because with this being oneway traffic this is a pretty wide drive aisle. So I you know I don't want to say we can do
it but there might be an opportunity to get a you know a parking only you know for those >> I'd like to see something that's just identified for >> specifically for the Yeah. >> It's also space by the dumpster. >> Correct. Yeah.
>> So Mr. Sure. Um I mean would you entertain a condition to just add two more spaces for delivery drivers on that side if it fits? I mean would that be acceptable to the board? >> I'd be fine with even one more but I don't know what the board thinks. >> It's up to the board. >> Fine.
>> Yeah. >> So so additional space for delivery drivers only for like >> ride share delivery not has one right on the building >> you know >> identifiable. >> Yeah. Yeah. It it says pickup only fosios
>> pick up only >> I would say you know if that was the case and the board decides to make that condition um you should put that on the plans >> sure that you sent us >> just keep that in mind. Uh, so board one space or two? >> At least one. >> I don't know how long though it started.
I'm looking at the map here and it's >> Yeah. I mean, if you want to make it conditional upon like what the applicant could provide at least one, that's totally fine. We could put the condition in as that, but I just wanted to double check, make sure that's what the board wants to do. >> Oh, I I I do want to do an identified space. >> Okay.
>> For delivery. >> I mean, we can look at trying to get two, but I think we could certainly get one. >> How long is that side of the building that uh >> this year? Yeah, >> I maybe I don't know if it's dimensioned on the other plan. I >> I don't don't have a
>> be hard to get two spaces in there. You might be able to do one by the dumpster, one by there at all. I think we're looking at >> maybe one here. >> I think we're looking at the map here and I think you're actually looking at the north as you're looking out there. Yeah, that right there. >> Yeah, there and by the dumpster. >> Yes, definitely.
>> Also, those spaces don't have to be like the same parking style as the other spaces. You can have like a parallel parking spot for delivery drivers as long as they can safely enter and exit the property. I think that's the most important thing. >> Sure. >> We're also going to put a condition that
has to be marked with some sort of signage, whether it's on the wall, >> whether it's a freestanding post, just some sort of identification marker. >> Yeah, that's just the front though. You can't see the back. >> No, I was thinking in those pictures. Yeah. >> Oh,
>> so the dumpster is going to be where your thumb is. >> Right there. >> Oh, no. Yeah. Yeah. The dumpster's right here. >> Yeah. >> So, you could do one in here and one on the end. >> Yeah.
>> I mean, ideally, we'd like to get two. >> Okay. >> But at a minimum, we have to have one. >> Sure. No, >> we can see we'll see >> because you know we really are know we trying to be as considerate as we possibly can for the neighbors and you want to keep as much traffic off of
white um you know we we so I've lived in town for now 25 years I know that and I walk that area every single day so I'm really uh you know really well aware of that and it's and
when I took the rotary, came around and um I took the rotary from North Main, came all the way around and then went in white and you're on white for 15 20 ft and then you're taking the left. I don't know how many people would
come down Pleasant. What street would they come down? No, they would come down. Yeah. Pleasant. >> Pleasant. Take a red and white, >> right? >> Yeah. You'd really have to You'd really have to know. You have to know >> that I'll do that. Okay.
>> Yeah. And and we're going to keep, you know, the lights are going to be down. So, the reference to the woman who talked about the lighting at the uh gas station. So, all the lights have to be down. We're going to put the parking the no parking on White Street between the entrance on White and Elm.
>> Mhm. >> And on Elm. >> And on Elm. Yeah. Okay. So, the only thing about putting signage on the town road, Mr. Chair, is that you have to get approval from DP. Y >> I would I don't think they're going to go for that because people could still
park there. So, I think the business owner just has to have signage somewhere that says no parking for customers. I know there's a wall on that side, so you definitely utilize the wall space for signs that says no street parking for whatever your business name's going to be. Do do you know what that is off the top of your head? >> Owners. >> What's it called?
>> Owners. >> Owners. Okay. own restaurant or a takeout restaurant. So, I think that might be the best way to do it. I would say maybe if you had that signage, I feel like it'd be more effective on the white a side >> because I don't think anybody's going to be parking on the street on Elm just
because of how it's lined. I mean, I'm sure somebody's going to put their hazards on, but they could do it on that side, too. >> But again, you can't really do the stick postage signs because not DPW wouldn't like that. >> Yeah. So any signage on public ways go
to the town council. Doesn't come from us. So okay. So I think we'll add a condition to the no on street parking that says parking on the build. Sorry, signage on the building has to indicate that they can't park on the street if they're using that business. I feel like
that's like the most effective way that you can really relay that message to folks who are going there. Um because they can put directional signage on the building itself as long as it's not over a certain size. So just so they don't have to go to the town council or to the DPW. I think that makes the most sense
logically. >> Hope the board's in agreement with that. >> Yeah. >> I still think a sign on White Avenue will protect the people. >> Yeah. So we can actually make the request to the town council for that. >> Okay. So is that what the board wants to do? >> Do both.
>> There's a carrier parked here today. >> All right. So um are we done with discussions? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Do so the proposed conditions begin on page three at under six proposed conditions. These are the you know we'd
have to approve the findings uh as this report. We'd have to approve the proposed conditions of the last H through O plus the um the delivery driver parking spaces that we discussed
>> and that we would make a a specific additional condition for the signage on White A on the building with no customer parking and that this board would seek uh approval from the town council for a
signage for between the uh driveway entrance and on Elm Street. Be no parking. >> A do not enter sign on Elm Street. >> And do not enter on and do not enter sign on Elm Street. Okay.
So, >> did I miss anything? >> I don't think so. >> Nope. Do I have a motion to approve all those conditions? So moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion on those? Hearing none. So on the conditions, all in favor say
I. >> I. >> I. >> And now on can I have a motion to approve the special permit with the conditions? >> Second. >> Yeah. >> Motion made and seconded. Any further discussion? Hearing none. All in favor
say I. I. >> I. So the question then becomes because everybody always asks because Stacy everybody knew Stacy's cleaners. So uh when do you anticipate to open >> in about 2 3 months.
>> Okay. Yeah. Okay. Good luck. >> Appreciate it. Thank you guys very much. >> Thanks. >> I will reach out to whoever the applicant is tomorrow um about next steps. So just expect an email from me at some point. >> I think I do. Yeah. Whatever's on the
open go steak and cheese. >> Did you eat it before you came? >> No. >> Yeah. So, there's >> more details tomorrow. Yeah. Congratulations, guys. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you. Oh, no. Good luck. >> Good luck. Good luck. Take care.
>> So, did you play soccer high school? >> I played at Cathedral. >> Yeah. Okay. You did look familiar. >> Did you go to Wister State? >> I did. >> So, my Jake is my son. >> Jake Denver. Oh my god. Yeah. Yeah. I said I know that. >> Yeah. Yeah. I love you. Good luck. >> Yeah. How's your grandchildren?
>> Uh, good. We got two now. >> We got a little two little red. I saw >> two little red heads. >> Two little red heads. >> Good luck. Good luck. Thank you. >> All right. >> You want to call the next Russ?
>> You want the >> case SP-20226-02. Request for a special permit to operate a restaurant at 51 Prospect Street. Accessor's partial ID 27-154A- A located in the business zoning district applicant Anthony Wen 26 Gates
AB Springfield Springfield Mass 0118. So the applicant or their representative please step forward. >> I got you guys. >> Good evening. >> So just to preface it. So you heard a
lot of our concerns. I heard a lot >> on a restaurant. >> So during your presentation, I would hope that you could address a lot of that. >> Yes. Um I would like to make a statement. >> Sure. >> Good evening. First, I would like to say thank you to the T of Islam for their
unwavering support throughout this process, especially to the planning, building, tax collector, and health department representatives. Dear friend, family, former neighbors, new neighbors who are here today to support us.
My name is Anthony and I'm here in uh this evening with my beautiful wife Stephanie Lee. Um we have been proud resident of Islam for the past 15 years. Even prior to that, my family operate business in this
town for many years. first on North Main Street and later at 51 Prospect Street, serving different neighborhoods and building lasting relationship with the community. Islam is truly my home. It is where I
have earned my honored living, raised my family and remain committed to contributing positively to the town. I take great pride in operating my business responsibly and respectfully and in being an engaged and accountable
member of this community. His model had long been known as a business friendly town, one that welcomed thoughtful investment while fairly enforcing local working serving customer and contributing to the town that I have
supported for many years. I would like to briefly address address my proposed restaurant at 51 street a property that I personally own a both property owner and business operator. I
take full responsibility for maintaining the site to the town standard and for the operating the restaurant in the manner that meaningful well managed and compatible to the surrounding neighborhood.
The proposed restaurant is a small fine dining establishment featuring cuisine that reflect my cultural heritage. Food that have been widely enjoyed by many people, different background. My
goal is not to operate a high volume venue, but to offer quality food, thoughtful service, and a welcoming atmosphere at the community I call home. There are 15 spay uh parking spay on
site. Three are used by hair salon with operate from Tuesday to Saturday. Close on Sunday and Monday. There are uh three three are you for the restaurant staffer
and nay left for the restaurant patrons. I understand how the parking regulation translate nine on-site parking space into a theoretical maximum of 20 27 patron. However, I respectfully believe
that that this formula does not reflect the real world parking demand for this specific restaurant. This is a small five dining establishment, not a high turnover or high volume business. Customer arrive
gradually, stay for extended period and often arrive together. In practice, couples and or family sharing one vehicle or some you ride share service. Some are drop off and other walk to the
restaurant from nearby neighborhood. Because of this, the number of people dining inside the restaurant can reasonably exceed 27 without increasing the number of vehicle park on site. I'm not asking for unlimited occupancy. I'm
asking for the reasonable flexibility of 32 customer equivalent to eight four t four seat table that reflect the actual operation not a mathematical maximum. The restaurant will be reservation based
and closely managed and staff will actively monitor parking usage. If parking capacity is rich, seating will be adjusted to ensure that no overflow occur to the residential street or neighboring property. I have
already taken significant step to reduce parking impact. I voluntarily reduce the number of v of table to not to use third party delivery service like Uber Eat or Door Dash. I I will put clear signness
and directly instruct customer to yield only designated parking for restaurant. A both the property owner and operator. I am fully accountable for how this business function. I have every
incentive to ensure the it operate responsibly and in the harmony with the surrounding neighborhood. The goal of the parking regulation is to prevent congestion and the neighborhood disruption allow allowing modestly higher capac
occupancy in this case do not increase parking demand and do not create additional impact. For the reason I respectfully ask the board to allow the restaurant to accommodate up to 32 customer beyond real world use and
operational control. In closing, I would like to thank you for your time and consideration. >> Okay, >> nice questions for the applicant from the board. >> Five. >> So, just again, I got out and I walked
it today. So, coming up from the Rotary, you've got Robert Charles studio and then the next building. What's in the next building? >> What is the next building? uh the child studio and then the uh is it >> CHD is children and human development.
>> Oh >> yeah, the newly uh um they just moved in I think a couple months ago. >> Is it a counseling service? Are they there after 5:00? >> It's a counseling service. >> They there after 5:00? >> Yes, they are.
>> Yes, I've seen because they because children come. >> Yeah. >> You see a lot of kids. They come after school. Yeah, >> with their parents. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> I wonder if it'll still be there. They just lost lost a lot of funding. >> Yeah. >> PhD did. Yeah. >> Yeah. They just laid off 70 people. >> Yeah.
>> Well, they're still there. >> Yeah. Okay. All right. Other questions? >> I think I'm looking at this one and there's 10 tables with four seats. That's 40 >> that I original proposed it. after um I uh some neighbor come and uh and um had
ra their concern I listen and uh be respectful and I understand the concern. I I said that this is my home. I grow up here. I I raise my family here. I have business for many year. I listen to their concern. That's why I propose I
voluntarily reduce to eight tables. And uh also at first I um uh try to uh partner with uh you uber Uber Eat and Door Dat but again I think this is not a good idea like bring it probably cause
some problem that's why I voluntarily not to have partner with them. >> Got it. Thank you. So the reason I asked that question is so you might know um Bill and Npalitano which is the northern part of town on
North Main Street. >> Y >> so they're in a very small plaza. um they did not have sufficient parking for what they wanted to do in the interior and they actually um worked with the property owner directly
across the street and signed an agreement that that property owner would allow overflow traffic at Villa Npalitano to use that parking lot. So I'm just thinking about this. So the ability for you
to use those two other parking lots would more than cover you know any you know any overflow traffic. >> It's only he's asking for one and two parking spaces to be deleted. So it's not that much. >> It's not that much. Yeah. But I >> very small >> but yeah.
>> All right. Any other questions before we open the public Rob? >> Yeah. Just to clarify. So thank you for clarifying number of seats. So now it's 32 eight tables with four seats. So the parking metric, it requires that he has at least 10.6 parking spaces. >> Yeah. >> So we'll round down to 10 or round up to
11. It's your choice. But he seems to have enough for that. It does >> and a few extra for staff. >> Do you know how many staff you're anticipating to have on site >> right now? Two staff and me. >> So that's that's enough to cover what you need. So he meets the parking requirements with the number of seats, >> right? >> Are you considering the hair salon too?
>> Yes. I believe the hair salon needed three seats. >> Three spot. Yeah. >> Yep. So you need 12 spots total for your business which you have. >> Yes. >> So it seems like parking meets the required code. Mr. Chair, >> and I have a question on So you put your
hours of operation as 8:00 a.m. to 7 or 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Do you actually have customers at 8:00 a.m.? >> Uh I think I I I the reason I so excited I put in like a hour, right? I but I I I
I might make some adjustment like stuck with 9 to 7 and then uh from Monday to Friday and then uh uh 9 to uh 6 from uh no and 9 to 8 from Saturday and Sunday.
But my wife really mad. She said I shouldn't work. >> Wives do that. You know, sometimes they get angry at you. >> I know that I am playing the game. It's time for me to catch up with my retirement, but she says you shouldn't
do that. But I I might have to submit a request to change the working hour, but I would love to work like, you know, much I can. >> So, it's it's not So, what I think we're more concerned about is the hours that you're open for business. So, what do
you anticipate you will be open for customers to eat there? >> Uh, from 9 to 7 um, Monday to Friday and then from Saturday to Sunday from 9 to 8. >> Okay. So, she's not giving you much of a
break, >> that's for sure. Okay. And to address the concern that the pickup uh uh dumpster I my wonderful neighbor we talk about it and u I I respect the quieter the
neighborhood. I I've been here long enough I know that I shouldn't do that. I have kids grow up. >> So are you voluntarily offering a um a set hour that they won't come and what what would that be? >> I mean whatever work for the neighbor I think probably after 7. I heard you say
after seven. Yeah, the town has an ordinance, a noise ordinance. I think it's from 10:00 p.m. to 7 a.m. >> I think so. Yeah. >> So, at a minimum, >> yeah, >> there can't be deliveries between >> I me I heard that you say after 7. So, after
>> after 7, huh? Where's the dumpster? >> On the side, not on that one. >> I I should present you with a new drawing. >> Oh, here we go. So that >> is this your new door? >> Yeah. Can I keep this?
>> Yeah. Thank you. >> I will send you a lecture. >> Thank you. >> Show here is right here. >> And may I may I ask add one more thing? >> Sure. >> Is uh we uh have in contact in the last few week I I um I told him my neighbor
that because we addition to the neighbor. >> Can we can we just so we can hear him? Thanks. I I will set up a fan, a vinyl fan at the neighbor request. Okay. Six foot vinyl fan. Beautiful fan. So all the way to the end. So it at night time
if somebody come dry over and it does not side the light into the >> filter. Yeah. Yeah. The bedroom. >> And what what's your address, sir? >> 79. >> All right. Okay. So you can step back and we can
ask anyone who would like to be heard on this matter to please step forward. >> Thank you board. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Hi. >> Hi. So, my name is David um with the Abuing Property at 79 Prospect Street. I
live there with my fiance, obviously hoping to start a family there and um >> Congratulations. >> Yeah. >> Um so, obviously spoken to Tony a few times. Love the guy. I think he's great. Um hope he does well. Um, obviously my biggest concerns are, you know, when the hair salons were there, there was
really, you know, they're there till 5:00 p.m., 4 p.m. By the time we get home from work, you can't even see anything. Lock parking lot is pretty much empty. Um, biggest concern was probably like just light shining directly into my house. Um, I don't know if you've been to the property, but you know, there's really no tree coverage
for 6 months of the out of the year. Um, and then there is tree coverage for the other six. Um so it's fine when it's good but obviously um winter months it's pretty much passed through. So would love to see a fence there um just some type of blocking uh in that in that
sense. Now I came here obviously he's revised his plans um which is great uh the I think different uh perspective from the plans that he submitted versus now. So it's good to see that he um reduced the number of tables. I would
love to see, you know, a dedicated delivery parking spot. I know that he said he's not going to do um Uber Eats or Door Dash, which, you know, I guess I have no really preference, but in the proposal that he submitted, that was one of the main paragraph was catering to
Door Dash and Uber Eats. So, um clearly there was some type of plan there. and you know I would say he wants to pick it up one day and just start registering on the apps to start sending them out there would obviously change things um from the meeting. So I'd love to see a
registered um specific takeout spot if possible. Um you you spoke to the trash hour pickups where the dumpster's going is 20 yards from our bedroom where we hopefully will have a kid one day. Would love to see dumpster pickup um throughout the day, not in the middle of
the night. We already kind of get hit with coffee time. They got dumpster pickup middle of the night. Um kind of noisy, a little more noisy with him right next to us. Um for that dumpster specifically and then no outdoor seating. Um I don't
know if that how how that works if I was saying that >> outdoor dining. They'd have to come in. >> Okay. >> Come back to this board for approval of that. >> Yeah. Okay. Understood. And then um like you know he obviously hours of operation would love to see the weekend dialed back to 7:00 p.m. instead of 8. I don't
know how that works. Um if it's 8, whatever. Um but obviously just be noisy. Um cuz you know eight's when kids go to bed. And um what was the last thing? And then future like future I I guess
I'm concern confused as like he approves one thing. Can you just ch Can hours just change at a whim or do they have to get reapproved? >> You'd have to come back in a minute special. >> Okay. And then tables have to get reapproved so we you know things can just added. Okay. >> That's how that you know quite honestly unless we go in
>> unless they're are going in and inspecting. >> Yeah. >> You know there is some reliance on the neighbors >> Yeah. to kind of >> I wouldn't >> I know but to keep track of it and to notify the zoning enforcement officer for the town who is also the building inspector. >> Yeah. And um and if you're not
comfortable making a complaint, call me. I dropped the dimebody all over town. >> I got you. I trust he seems like a good guy. >> An of cool. I I have no concerns with Tony. He seems great. So, um that >> or he has his own rule book. He goes around. >> Yeah, there you go. We'll take that. Um
you know, I know there's concerns of parking. I'll say when the hair salon was there and in business, the parking lot got full fast, like from just a few hair salons. So, I can only imagine what a restaurant will do. Um, I know there's obviously concerns from other I won't
speak to them about crossing parking across the street at William Street. Um, I'll kind of let you guys hash that out. I don't want to speak for them, but yeah, those are kind of my main concerns. The fence, dumpster hours, >> um, takeout spot,
>> and outdoor seating. I don't know what else. And then free food for a year for me. You don't want much, right? >> Thank you. Thank you guys. Thank you. Thank you. >> If anyone else would like to be heard in this matter, please step forward. Sign
in, please. Hi. >> Hi. >> Um, my name is Christina Divine. I live at 1113 William Street. We own the two family right next to the parking lot at the back of the church. Um, so I I have a couple things that I
just have some questions on and some concerns. Number one, um, we're a cut through street. William Street is a cut through. >> It's a cut through for the center. Um, and that's just something we have to live with. Um, unfortunately, it makes
me think that people are going to use our street even more um, and increase the traffic on our street. Um, so that's a concern for us and I I don't think there's anything we can do about that, which is just part of part and parcel of where we live. >> It's a public way,
>> right? >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Um, now I've lived there all my life. We bought my parents house, so my grandparents owned it back in the 40s. I've been there forever. I'm a towny. There used to be no parking on one side
of the street all the way down. Now, I think there's only maybe one. There's one sign at the end of the street on Summers Road. Um, there's one there and there's one I think it's still there. Is there one still front of your house? >> Uh, >> a little further up.
>> Yeah, in front of Lavo, which is 12 William. There's a there's a no parking. There used to be more on the street, but over the course of years, they came down and were never replaced. Um our concern
is um parking on our street because when people try to take that corner and somebody's parked like in front of 80 Prospect Street, it becomes a problem. Especially now if you have two park parked there, it's going to be
an even bigger problem. Um, and I know I know we've talked he talked about how many spaces are needed for the hair salon and for the restaurant. The reality is the hair salon sometimes has six cars in
their parking lot because I kept track. I took pictures so that I have have that I have that it it it happens. So to say that they're only going to use two or three
um it's not a reality and I and I know we have to follow just set whatever the town says, but we have to think about these things also. And my thought is if there's going to be overflow and they want to use the church, then they have to get that
written to be able to use the church. Am I correct? >> Well, it's church property and the church would have to sign off on it if they sought to use it. Yeah. >> Okay. So, but the way the the laws read now, they can go ahead and because even
though they the salon is using five or six spots, even though that happens, they can still do that. So, the overflow is either going to go right on Prospect Street, right on William Street, or possibly in the church, possibly. So, is it possible
to get the no parking signs back up the way they used to be on William Street on that what's that? The even side of the street. It's on the even side of the street. >> So, I mentioned on the last one. So, the town council
uh really through a suggestion of the Department of Public Works is the entity that approves what's called rules of the road. >> Right. That's a rule of the road, >> right? >> So, they would have to approve additional no parking on that street,
>> right? >> Yeah. >> And you were going to put in for the last people, you were going to put in a request for that. Correct. >> Uh, we would ask them to do that. Yeah, we do that all the time. >> Can you do that for us, too? >> Um, if we get to that point, I I will give you an example. Uh, Cassie sitting
to my right. She lives on Melwood. when we had to site the new high school and during the construction or the the people were parking on Melwood and then dropping their kids off and crossing
Maple Street and they were parking in people's driveways. They were it it was a big mess. So, as part of that permitting process, we made a request to the town council that at least during the uh construction of the new high school that there be no parking on
Melwood for how far down? >> 50 100. >> It goes like four houses down, four or five houses. >> And and they did it. >> Okay. >> So, we have some poll maybe, right? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Right. >> So, we can if we decide that could be a request, >> right? >> Yeah. Um that would be I mean we want to
see Tony succeed. >> Yeah, >> we do. I mean I think all our neighbors said you know we want that to happen. Um and on the sharing with the church that that was kind of where I was going with my questioning on the first two buildings and what do they have that he
could use for overflow parking? >> Yeah, I don't think he can use the CH. >> Probably not that. Um, >> but the church I I'm sure he can use the church if they if there's not a a stipulation that has to be written. You know, he'd have to get that in writing
from them. I don't know. I don't know how that works >> for liability. >> For liability reasons. Yeah. >> Well, they have a sign up that says we're not uh the whatever it says, you know, >> not responsible. >> That's right. That's what they have. That doesn't Right. >> It's between two individual parties,
>> right? So would he have to get that get uh permission from them? >> If if we made the determination that we did not believe there was sufficient parking. >> Okay. So >> go and say would you reach out to this party and that party.
>> So but the way the the laws read not >> the way the laws read he has >> parking if he cuts back on his tables and everything. Okay. >> Sounds like he has said he would do. >> Yeah. It sounds like he has um Okay, so
the other the other um issue we had and and I didn't realize it until the last people spoke is they have lights on their building and they have two lights and then they have um and it's outdoor lighting and then they have a sensor one in the
middle and the way my house faces my kitchen, my living room and my front room, I mean my kitchen, my my den in my front room all face that parking lot. So those lights come on at night and shine
right into our house and the the sensor light does the same thing. So is it possible to have outdoor lighting that faces down on that or is >> already have that? >> It's required. >> We have that as a potential. >> It's a it's a required. So he has to get rid of those other lights. You'll have
to replace some um down facing lights or have a shield so it doesn't spill out into neighboring properties. >> Okay, great. >> That would be an improvement for you. >> That would be good. That would be good. >> Please remember if if there's a lot of overflow, he is violating a special permit.
>> Okay. >> Cuz it's just the the formula is one one space per uh three three seats. So, if there's 10 extra cars, he's violating a special permit. >> Okay. >> And you can make a complaint to the planning board. Then we would just go down to town hall to a planning board.
>> See that gentleman right there? >> And my husband already my husband already saw that. >> I thought you look familiar. Yeah. So >> yeah. Okay. I think that >> that was it, right? I think that answers all of it for me.
>> Thank you. >> If there's anyone else who'd like to be heard on this matter, please step forward. Hello. >> Please sign in. >> So, I have something I'm going to read off for them. Okay. >> So, you got louder. >> Yeah. Sorry. Um, I have something you
hear me. Can I read this just >> I I still can't hear you. >> Can I just read this off of here? Is that okay? >> Sure. Okay. >> Okay. But you have to speak loud enough so the microphones will pick you up. >> Okay. >> Hello, my name is Reagan Siddig. I'm 14 years old and I have lived here in town my whole life. My entire life up until
last year, I've lived next to Van and Tony. They were some of the best neighbors I could have ever asked for. They legally immigrated here to the US many years ago and chose to pursue putting in businesses here and growing the economy. Along with being the best neighbors ever, they're also strong taxpayers. Here in town, Van Lee owns a
salon and along with this, they own the entire building that is the salon is currently operating in. In this building, there used to be an there used to be a hair salon on the other side, but it is now an empty space that is unoccupied. Since they own the entire building, they have decided to pursue
sorry they have decided to pursue ah I'm sorry they've decided to pursue putting in a Vietnamese restaurant there. They only want to repurpose the space into a small high-end dining space with limited tables and seating. What Van and Anton are trying to do is bring more tax
revenue towards the town than they are previously doing and creating more job opportunities for young people like me or others to work near where we live as well as offering a food that is a diverse option from the food that is currently served here in East Long Meadow. As I clearly showed and pointed out, Ben and Tony are amazing people. So, I have no idea why there should be
any problem with this. So, in closing, I ask you the planning board to approve the permit request for this restaurant. Thank you. >> Thank you. I am Susan Kcoyanakis. I've lived on uh Porter Road, East Log Meadow for 25 years.
When I moved on Porter Road, I knew it was a main road. It's busy street. I knew that. I can complain and I can say all I want. There's nothing I can do about it. Tony and Van,
they're really trying to do this. This is Tony's lifelong dream to own a restaurant and I've had the privilege and honor to try his faux. It's amazing. So, I'm just telling you all now, there might be an issue with parking because
once you try it, cars are going to be behind you. Okay. So, if it's that's what the neighbors think is going to deter this, there's a way to work it out. I know there is, but >> I think to be honest with them,
>> well, yeah, I just >> I think they're going to be good. >> They are. They're going to be great and they're going to be great neighbors and whatever you need them to do, I know they're going to do it because they are the two most honest, hardworking
They're they're great and they are welcome to have another business in East Long Meadow. So, >> thank you. >> Wanted to SAY >> Hello everybody. >> Hi. My name's Judy. >> Um, I've known Van. >> Last name >> Boa.
>> Thank you. >> Um, I've known Van Lee and her husband for about 17 years. She does my hair obviously. I haven't had the pleasure of tasting her husband's spoon, but I'm looking forward to it. >> Um, I believe I understand there are parking issues. So, I was in the
building when a couple of the residents came in and I believe firmly with my whole heart that Tony and Dan will work with them to make them very happy. Whatever lighting they have to put in, they're very considerate. They had a business down here across the street
from Pride. I think she had three or four parking spots. Never saw a problem. I just believe there'll be great people that will bring revenue to the town. and I'm hoping that you give them a chance to do so.
>> Thank you. Any questions? >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Sign in first, >> please. Perfect. Um okay. Uh good evening chairperson and members
of the planning board and um really residents and abutters to the property. Um my name is Darlene Ree Sitig. I live at 159 Canterbury Circle in East Sal Meadow and I'm here to speak in strong support of Anthony Wyn and Stephanie
Lee, also known as Van Lee. It sounds like everybody's got that clear. Um, I've known Anthony and uh I'm going to call them Tony and and Van personally now since 2000 and since I moved to Massachusetts and I
can say without hesitation they are outstanding individuals who have contributed meaningfully to East Law Meadow for nearly two decades. Since they um immigrated to the United States in in 1998, they've built a life
rooted in hard work, integrity, and commitment to this community and to the US. They've opened a business here in 2006 and have been local employers and taxpayers and ultimately chose to build their home here in town.
We chose to build our homes here together, our lots right next to each other. Tonight, I respectfully ask that you consider allowing them to repurpose the existing property um to open a second business in that
location. And I really appreciate the dialogue here tonight and the concerns from the neighbors. And having been a personal neighbor, I do know they will meet your concerns. Um, and
I respectfully ask that you consider allowing them to move forward. This is not a proposal for new dramatic new construction or change in occupancy, um, but rather a thoughtful reuse of an already occupied space. The property has
previously supported business activity and this plan simply gives it a new life in a way that continues to contribute to the town's economic vitality and overall appeal. I understand that some concerns have been raised regarding traffic. I've
worked for Six Flags New England and I've been to those town meeting committees me hearings and putting in new capital and traffic with the residents. I understand the noise concerns. However, based on the nature of the proposal, those concerns appear appear
to be a little limited in scope, but not but not ignored. The business model is designed primarily as high-end dining with minimal seating, which naturally reduces extended on-site traffic. Additionally, there are other food
establishments in town operating successfully with similar or even more limited seating and parking accommodations. From my perspective, Tony's revised propo proposal represents a reasonable and responsible use of this space, one that aligns with both
community character and practical expectations. Along with demonstrating his commitment to keeping Ethl Long Meadow beautiful and profitable. Beyond logistics, there is also a broader opportunity here. Supporting this business means
supporting local entrepreneurship, encouraging small business growth, and welcoming a wider diversity of food offerings that enrich our town. East Meadow has always been a community that values tradition and thoughtful progress. This is a chance to uphold
both. I respectfully encourage you to take into account Tony and Van's long-standing contributions, their proven track record, and the merits of this new proposal as you make your decision. Thank you for your time and your service to our community.
>> THANK YOU for the purpose of timing. Oh, you can sit down with Okay. Um, certainly we can understand. Yes, >> I'll let you finish, but I'll tell you afterwards. >> Certainly, we we understand um how many people are here are in support of the
project. So, just to kind of make things go a little quicker. Um if you have actually an an issue that you want to address or concern that you want to address, I would I think the board would prefer to have you come forward. We do
understand the great support in the community for the applicant. So if there if someone in the audience might has a a major concern, would you now please step forward? >> Okay. >> I do want to acknowledge we do have one uh person on the Zoom with their um
>> Okay. >> ask the same question of them. Um >> would you be able Hey Sean, would you be able to um There's one person in the attendees list. Uh Ben Wen, uh could you could you promote them to panelist so they can pick that up? >> Yeah, no worries. That's why the
screen's facing you so you can see those hands go up. >> Be surprised how easy it is to miss that. >> I think that was a subtle >> job. >> Um, >> so Dan,
>> hi. I'm sorry. Can you hear me? Okay. >> Yep, >> I can. So, >> okay. So Dan, we are asking individuals who might have a concern about the property or the use to address the board. If you are here to be supportive
of the petitioner, we have heard from a number of people who have indicated their support for the project and for the petitioners. >> Okay. Sorry, I'm I'm in the wards right now. I'm a medical student in Boston, but I'm Anthony and Van's son, so I missed that part. Sorry. But I just want
to reiterate that my father has clearly been so receptive to all the community love and support and also concerns. So we would greatly appreciate it if everyone continued to support our endeavors. This has been my dad's dream since he first moved to America and he's
been so receptive to all of the neighbors support. Um and I've tried to make some time from saving lives to express my opinion. So So, my patients need me now, but thank
you and please consider your support. Thanks. >> Well done. Thank you. >> To address the board that might have a concern, >> a negative concern, >> a negative concern on the board. >> Okay. All right. So if not, um,
does the board wish to, uh, put forward a motion to close the public hearing? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Have a second. Second. Any discussion? Hearing on all in favor of closing the public hearing. >> Did that affect? I don't think we discussed my um
>> Oh, we'll get to it. >> Okay. I don't know how it works. The closing. >> Yeah, we we'll get to it. >> Official. >> We'll get to it. Um >> I just kind of lost my Okay. All in favor say I. I. >> Okay. So public hear is closed. >> Okay. So um so what we as a board do is
so there are certain findings that are put forward by the planning use appear to generate any additional nuisances because operations will you know so in this the operations will all be indoors during normal business hours.
Um, you know, we talk about the parking, we talk about the um adequate screen, adequate screening that you refer to. Um, you know, in here he wishes that we have some discussion about the delivery
drivers and what we want to do like we did for the last one. Um, and then we have some proposed conditions. They're only proposed. um you know things like it runs with the you know runs with the owner of the property the special permit. So here
like as an example hours of operation shall be now these have been modified. So I think thanks to his wife we can now do instead of being hours of operation Friday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday through 8:00 a.m. to
>> 8 p.m. they'd be 9 a.m. >> 9:00 a.m. um to 7:00 p.m. Mr. Sure. Just 9:00 a.m. and then keep the closing times the same. >> So there there was a a question he'd like to see an hour earlier. To to run a restaurant, I think you need
to go to 8:00. Just my opinion. >> On the weekend. >> On a weekend. Yeah. >> So just my opinion. >> Um so there is So all the lighting, all the exterior lighting will have to be changed and it'll have to be face down.
So you heard we did that with the last uh petitioner. So we're being very uh consistent with that in >> there. Mr. Chair, >> what's that? >> I said that condition's already been put. >> Yeah. Um no uh trash pickup, no deliveries
between We're going to make the hours of 7 a.m. and I'd like to see no later than 700 p.m. >> Yep. Yep. >> Everybody okay with that? Okay. >> Um that there be an installation of a 6
foot vinyl fence between the uh applicant's property and 79 Prospect Street. Could be stockade. >> Uh I think he mentioned either you or Tony mentioned vinyl. >> Yeah, we discussed that. I mean some
type of >> commentary after I listen. >> You're fine. You're fine with vinyl. >> Yes. >> So Mr. Chair, I would say um You could specify the type of screen, but I think material wise can't really overstep. So, >> I'm going to put up a fence and you two can agree. >> Six foot fence. >> Six foot.
>> Six foot. Okay. Um, my other notes that I had >> Oh, and the seating be limited to uh no more than 32. >> Yeah. >> Yep. I changed that one too, Mr. Chair. >> Tables of eight. >> Yeah, because here it's 36.
>> Yes. Well, it was originally 40. and it was 36 and he said he'd go down to 32 and 32 works with the parking. >> Yep. Works with the parking. Um so now on the issue of just so you're aware I think I indicated so it is the role of
the town council to decide the no parking that you were discussing on Wayne Street. So, we can ask the town council for their consideration that they uh provide appropriate no parking signs
for all of William Street, one side of William Street. So, help us out. >> All >> All okay. So, we will make that request as a board to the town council that they and they have to hold a hearing on it. >> You got to go to that and tell them you want it. >> Yeah.
>> You have to go to that hearing >> and then tell them you want it. But one side of the street was always no parking >> and there still are a couple signs. >> So is that in a record somewhere? >> It should be. Yeah, it should be.
>> And just one thing with the size of the street for emergency vehicle to come through, it would be hindered if there was parking on that street. >> Yeah. >> That's that's for their consideration. Unfortunately, it's not it's not for us. And you know, so my, you know, uh, thing
about the parking lot for this, I mean, when you're running a restaurant, you have, you want to have sufficient parking for your customers. If you don't have sufficient parking for your customers, your customers don't come back because
there's not sufficient parking. So, I am more of providing a little leeway. I mean, he meets the the requirements, but he's been a successful business person in the past. You know, we have to not break. >> I suggest he goes to the congregational
church and talks with them. >> I would suggest you go to the church >> and your neighbors and see if you could just do something. Nothing. It's nothing that we can. >> We did ask Bill and Npalitano to do it and they did it right away >> because they didn't have enough parking to support their business, >> but there was sufficient parking.
>> Yeah. So, so you're you're merely suggesting to the >> suggesting y >> he doesn't have to do it, but he he should consider it if he wants to. >> Okay. So, I make that perfectly clear for the record. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Question. It goes without saying
parking on Prospect Street. Is parking on Prospect Street allowed? >> I don't believe so. >> Yeah. I don't know why you would, but >> Door Dash people are nuts. >> It's It's one of those streets that was identified where you can't park according to our rules and breaks. Um and and people >> double check that too. But
>> and and people we you know people don't pay attention to rules anymore. >> They park wherever they want. They speed wherever they want. They trash whatever they want. And it's just unfortunate. But so
>> you know we can put conditions on if someone chooses not to do that. Your recourse about overflow parking and so forth would be to Mr. or whatilla down down the end and um you know and if it was so bad they'd have to come back
before this >> board. Okay. >> If it becomes like a consistent issue where more neighbors are telling us that like hey uh Tony Fo's customers are parking in front of my house and causing damage. >> I'm not worried about >> and then I'm not saying it will happen but saying if it does that gives us a way to enforce it
>> where we go out to the business owner and just tell them to comply with the permit or else we can >> pull the per pull the permit >> pull the permit. >> Okay. And that's when we would say go to the congregational church and actually get something. >> Yeah. >> I don't anticipate any issues with that, but you know, that's been a good way for us to resolve other issues in town and
it's worked pretty well for us. >> So, I would ask on the findings, can I have a motion to approve the findings as presented? >> So, moved. Do >> I have a second? >> Second. >> Any discussion hearing? None. All in favor say I. I. >> On the conditions as amended, do our
discussions? Yes. Can I ask a clarifying question just to make sure I'm on the same page as the board? Okay. >> So, you're keeping all the unhighlighted conditions that are standard for all of our permits. >> Y >> you're doing a condition for hours of operation be from Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and then
Saturday, Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Is that correct? >> Right. >> And I'm going to ask Tony's wife to give him a little break in the morning. >> He can make money. Um, so all necessary licenses to operate the intent business shall be obtained and kept current at all times. We're going to keep that one. Yeah. >> And proposed sign shall adhere to the
sign >> bylaw. Um number of seats shall not exceed 32. >> Yeah. >> Uh trash receptacles shall be screened from view at all times, which I believe in his plans he does have. >> Y >> um exterior facing lights shall be downcast and shielded to protect light spillage onto neighboring properties,
which I believe he will do. >> Um and then street parking associated with the proposed restaurant use is strictly prohibited. And then as suggestion, the planning board will submit to the town council or or ask the applicant to submit to the town council a request for no parking signs on William Streets.
>> Am I missing anything? >> Yeah. I would say this board would seek >> this board would do it. Okay. >> Instead of the residents having to seek that we would seek the town council >> the fence. >> The fence. Yeah. >> The fence uh between 79 Prospect Street
and this property. And then lastly, trash pickup and any deliveries. >> That's it. >> Have to occur within 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. >> And that's all I have. >> So a motion on the conditions. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Hearing none. All in favor say I. >> I.
>> And then now on approval of the special permit with the conditions. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Motion made second. Any discussion? Hearing none. All in favor say I. I. Second. Okay, we we have more business to
conduct. So, out you go. >> Mr. Chair, uh let's give the folks a few minutes late. I'm going to go ask the applicant question. >> Okay. >> Got to like eliminate chat GPT. You know, people chat GPT. >> Yeah, right. Everybody has great speeches.
Mr. Reing to get my haircut. I remember >> and your sister >> there was a nail place there. >> Thank you so much for your time. I really appreciate it.
>> I will try not to he open late so he doesn't have to work hard. Thank you. >> Look forward to trying it. >> Thank you so much. >> Thank you. do enjoy bow, but you know get to the X. The only one I know is one of the X, right? The bow. >> Thank you very much. >> Good luck. You're welcome. Good luck.
Good luck. >> Good luck. >> Knock over the sheriff. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> When do you think you'll be open? >> Uh construction now. We got to have a permit building permit especially with
the kitchen hopefully. Please do lie. >> Okay. >> All good. >> Yeah. I'm excited to try it. >> After the day, I I can move forward. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. >> Welcome. >> Congratulations. Thanks. >> Hey, >> not interested parties here for the mixed use district.
>> Seems to be a quieter. >> All right. >> So, um, recreational vehicles. It's uh you might the first meeting in J in January I said I wanted to try to do something about um
those large recreational trailer I have >> could be. Yeah. Um >> he's got some on his mind. He's on a tangent. >> So I uh so I just wanted to make sure it got on the agenda. It can go to the next meeting before we have a discussion on it. >> Sure. And I did include uh the previous
zoning amendment that's sort of related to this. >> Yeah. >> Just so you guys can see what the language was. Y and of course I highlighted so you know which part to look at. Um so you know just look at that and see if it's good enough and then we could discuss further at at our next meeting in late June. >> All right. Um yeah thank you.
>> So um on the on the use table. >> Yep. >> So um hopefully everyone So Rob, we at our last meeting where you were like probably in the Caribbean or something. >> No, just Naples Florida. >> Close enough. Um we uh we had a robust
discussion about um and you were on that committee, right? The original town center. >> Yeah. >> So our thought process was very similar to yours, but we wanted to bring it further back toward the Rotary and
essentially end where Dearo Carpet was and you go directly across the street, Shaker Bowl. >> Yeah. >> And then like the place we just approved a larger warehouse for Yeah, >> that thing little guy >> because if you kind of looked at the buildings past tomorrow carpet, they
were more industrial in nature. >> You know, I know you got to the bike shop and the yoga, but you had uh Peron, which is an auto body >> next year. >> Yeah, that's further down, but like right next to that was uh Scooters, the machine shop place, and Yeah.
>> And then there's another I think uh uh auto repair place. And so we figured Yeah. right there. And then we just started to look through some of the language in uh under 4552
which was on page five. And we kind of agreed that um for now this >> the first part, right? the first part and we changed we changed the order in some of it >> and then we were going to uh we ended
and we said that we would take the use table and try to go through it this evening and I don't know who has or who has not gone through it but I do know uh there are some questions that want to be asked
so I think why why don't we just go through without specifically mentioning each one, but we'll go by the um by the page number. >> Sure. >> So, um >> Mr. Chair, if you want some structure, I have a slides that organized the
discussion. I mean, we could take the use table first if you want, but I figured >> if you wanted to rehash the map. I actually have one item I wanted to show the board. >> Okay, go ahead. >> So, um if you don't mind, I'm also going to have slides for all these discussions just so we can organize ourselves. Um
so, these are the three topics we're hoping to discuss today. I did do case study work too, Mr. Chair, and I can update the board on mats. >> So, I'll just go into the map first. So, I do have some boards with me today. >> So, just to show you what
changes we have. So, anything in green are parcels that we added. So, we decided to add this plaza down here and these three properties right here. So, all three of these are commercial properties that have buildings that could be reused or
have potential for some sort of development. >> So, it's the dental office. >> Yep. And then I don't remember these other two are now Stacy's cleaner. Actually, this is Stacy's. That's the building that we just approved the special, but yeah, the dental office is right there. I'm not sure what this one is.
>> Oh, the bank. >> The place next to the bank. Yeah. >> Oh, >> is that the the >> the financial office? >> Oh, insurance. >> One of them is insurance. Finance. It doesn't. >> It's hub financial >> something like that. Yeah. Um this is like the bigger plaza that's across the street from these properties. But
there's one thing I want to bring to your attention. >> So thinking about it and I this is actually brought to me by Rebecca Lesi, our deputy town manager, which thankfully she caught my attention on this. So this part in red we got rid of, right? Like we started here. There's
some single family homes here. Then the gas stations down here with a few other commercial businesses. So, remember those renderings I showed you guys at the first meeting? We hired that consultant to do renderings of what the current zoning of us for and what's there? >> So, one of these parts down here, I
don't remember which one currently has a single family home, right? See here, >> that's for sale. >> Yeah, >> that's for sale. But, but somebody could tear that down and mind you, the rail trails at the back there. They could put this building there, a two-story industrial building with all these parking spaces, have the setbacks met,
and you'll have industrial building facing the rail trail. And that's if the current zoning in the industrial district is allowed to exist. And I think the reason why, Rob, you might have been a part of this discussions that they had this district go all the way down here to Chestnut is to prevent
those along the rail trail. So, that's just something to consider. I I wanted to bring that up to you because that could be a legitimate concern. Yeah. I would caution the board to reconsider adding that back in, but that's totally your choice and I think it's worth a discussion. So,
>> but that would add a gas station to uh the the mixed juice zone, which I don't agree with. >> So, we could take the gas station off if we want to, but I I do encourage the properties north of it should be considered part of the district to avoid that, especially along the rail trail,
which is one of the most important assets in this whole district. So next to next to the gas station, the next building is a single family. Yes. But it's used for right now it's used for >> is there a gun shop in there? >> Yeah, gun shop and a hair salon.
>> Gun training. They don't sell. It was weird. Like gun training and then like there's a salon upstairs. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> But I'm just trying to just trying to orient myself. >> If that place is for sale now though, I mean are we kind of are we kind of behind the eight-ball though? >> Yeah.
I mean, I wouldn't say behind the A-ball, but they could put that there today if they wanted to. But there is a rule zoning amendments. So, if there is an advertised zoning amendment that is in public hearing mode, like we already advertised in the newspaper, they technically can't build that on that
property because it would be in this district. So, they would have to follow the regulations that are currently in the public hearing. It's very confusing. It's actually case law that created this. The Amoris building commissioner actually told me about that law. So, say for example, they tear this down and
then we start the public hearing for this. They can't build that because we're in public hearing mode for this. >> So, we just it goes back. >> You're just going to come down to the house then include the house. >> I would say all these to the gas station because they're all houses there. Some of them are used for commercial
purposes, some of them aren't. >> Bike. There's a bike shop next to the gas station. >> Two down. Two down. Yeah. But the thing I want to caution is that the rail trail is probably the best place to put any sort of real estate in this district
because it's walkable. You can go to all these other amenities. You can go right to the center of town. Kids could go to the school if there's kids in this area if there's mixeduse buildings here. I think having industrial buildings that are brand new facing the rail trail might be problematic for two different
reasons. property values might go down a little bit because nobody wants to live next to an obnoxious big industrial building. This may not happen, but this could happen. It's legal. They don't need any permits from this board for this. This is by right. That's a scarier thing. So, they can put a big building
like this by >> have to We'd have to prove the plan, the site plan. >> You do have to prove a site plan, but you can't legally deny their ability to put that there. So, that's the other thing, too, to keep in mind. So, >> I have no problem with it. Is that a lot industrial or commercial or business? >> These are all industrials. >> All industrial. This whole strip here is industrial. >> How the hell do they think of sound does
that go? >> Industrial. >> It goes all the way to uh >> No. From there, how far toward the center does it does the industrial >> that whole right where the railroad is? >> Oh, all that. Yep. That's why we're including this whole district because it's all former industrial. Obviously,
the town doesn't want that, >> right? >> So, it sounds like Pete wants to leave the gas station out and just include all these other parcels. >> I would be okay with that about the board members. >> Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine. I would agree here. Yeah, >> cuz that makes >> taking notes here. >> So, Rob, that begs the question of
>> So, I think everybody including the town council would like to change the zone >> so that so that we get on board right now. >> Sure. >> For no industrial use. >> That's the plan. Yep. >> Okay. How soon can we just do that?
>> So, you mean no industrial uses whatsoever >> in this district? >> As soon as we start the public hearings. So, as soon as we advertise it and the town council throws it back to you guys to hold a public hearing. So, right now we're just doing informal discussions. >> Yeah. >> Um I recommend going through the rest of
the bylaw first before you do that. >> That's cool. >> Um I would say you could probably start the public hearing July, August, maybe August. That's probably the earliest you could do. Um you did give yourself a six-month timeline for this, >> right? >> I again I don't see this >> you saying like in conjunction with this
or just do that anyway. >> Just do it right now. Get it done. that done. >> I recommend doing it with this district. >> Can we do it separately just to get it done? >> You could um but you would just approve the district boundaries going to this, but you would want to have the bylaw
created already. We already have a lot of it done. We just have to go through it. That's pretty much all we have to do. >> Well, >> you could do zone change to make this >> zone change >> some other districts if you want to do something now to create a district. >> But again, you would have to go with an existing district and then just change
it back again. I mean, it's up to you whether or not you want to include these parcels or just leave them. >> You need to open that door. >> Yes. >> Thanks, Mike. Cold. >> No, cuz the public might want to come in. >> Oh. >> Um, >> so it's tricky situation. I mean, you
could I don't see this happening right away. >> This is more of like a future thing, so there's no rush. I've actually had I've actually had some coun town counselors ask me about creating a district and immediately just doing away with
industrial in that district. >> That's the plan. >> Yeah. >> So So industrial is going to be gone. So all this >> No, but I mean they want to act quickly. >> Act quickly. Okay. >> I mean that property literally is up. I mean I I I'm actually surprised it hasn't sold or maybe it's already >> he's going to put an offer later.
>> I was like I go wait a minute. Excuse me now. Are you playing this? >> I mean it's well I mean that's the the concern right is it's been for sale for a while y >> and if somebody figures that out >> um >> these meetings are public so >> they are public but also if somebody were to buy this and to design this it's
going to take them months to do that anyways. >> Yeah. So, I don't see I think if we do this in a timely fashion, right, finish by like early August and then start the hearings after that, we'll be fine because as soon as we start the hearings, they're not going to be able to put that in because we have a public
hearing open. >> So, we all agree that down to the gas station. Yeah, for sure. Okay. Absolutely. >> All right. So, I'm g put a note here. >> Do Do some of you remember Ty Richards? >> Oh, God. He was a good friend of mine. >> Yeah. He he actually
so when we were doing the gas station or we amended that permit some of the residents across the street on Shaker came and wanted to make some changes to the lighting and stuff like this and they came and they said you know what should we do? He said you should just
sell it. You make everybody sell and you sell it to a commercial developer >> and you just extend the whole, you know, town business district all the way down to Chestnut Street. >> Again, I've seen >> like five houses on the other side. >> Oh, I know. >> Well, you know, I've been doing this for like
>> almost six years now, and I every time I've seen somebody buy a property, it takes them up to >> my phone >> six to 10 months to even do plans and have everything ready. >> Yeah. >> So, the process of even building a commercial building is going to take a forever. It's not something you want to rush. There's a lot of storm water requirements, building code stuff, fire
code, all that stuff. So, >> it's not going to be a quick thing. >> Yeah. >> But if we keep up with this and doing what we're doing, we're going to be good. So, I have no worries there from my end. >> Okay. Do you want me to move on or any questions about the map? >> Nope. I'm I'm up for approving the map
>> and getting rid of the industrial district and doing just that for now. >> Okay. So >> that's that's my >> keep in mind the gas station is still zoned industrial. >> Yeah, that's fine. I'm talking about with the housing, the whole nine works. Yep.
>> I am up for at this point in time approving the area >> and getting rid of the industrial and not consider any of the housing or any of that stuff at this time. >> But but but continue to go through this process. >> Absolutely. And we're going to visit this again during the public hearing. >> Yeah.
>> So what we're doing is just having the planning board finalize this bylaw. Then once we do, you guys give your go-ahad. We'll send it to the town council so they can start the process. >> We can always add stuff in later on. >> You can during the hearing. Yes. >> No. No. After the hearing is over, after the district is made, we can put additional things in, can't we?
>> You would have to do another uh amendment process. >> Yeah, that's fine. That's fine. >> Are we getting too cute if we try to put in the gas station? if it ever changes hands or becomes not maybe changes hands but it becomes anything other than a gas station it will refer to the town district cuz I mean in in our lifetimes
I don't think that will never not be a gas station but in the future it could change >> if you want to absorb that parcel into the district we could definitely do something like that >> it's fine today but if you ever tank out and convert it to a >> so you're you're allowed to take whatever >> so you can actually so say if you wanted to expand to this parcel for some reason
because there's economic development advantages you could just extend the district to include that it wouldn't be spot zoning because you're incorporated into this bigger district. >> It's only spot zoning if like say you take this property and you zone it to that. >> How far away that is. >> Yeah. >> Put your finger down a little further
and to the right and then you'll have mine. >> Yeah. >> So spots up there. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. I mean, but it's a good map. I think the district boundaries are done on purpose to get rid of all that industrial stuff. I think also it's good to combine these districts into one because if you combine into one, you're going to have the same style of
development throughout which looks a lot better than pork chop. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. No problem. >> Yeah. >> All right. Uh All right. You guys want to move on to use table? >> I would. >> All right. So, next slide. >> So, um I actually have specific questions about
where you put a yes or a no. >> Yep. >> So, and it's the very first one. General uses agriculture, horiculture, floriculture, pitcher culture. >> We asked that last time law.
>> It's a law. >> So on property is over 5 acres. We have to under state law. >> Do we have any lot in that district? >> Five acres >> that has five acres. >> You still have to put yes for it no matter what. >> Even if there is no 5 acres or more in that, you still have to. >> Okay. >> You can say no for everything else.
That's what I did there with the other ones. >> That's fine. like dealing with the church. >> Yeah. >> I mean, just to give you guys background, I mean, we have the new proposed uses on the left there, all those bullet points, and then the changes on the right. And I believe Russell, you wanted to bring up eliminating single family homes from the
district. >> Yeah. >> Is that correct? You still want to do that? >> Let's just keep talking on these uses. >> Absolutely. Go ahead, please. >> So, I go down to number um eight. >> Eight. >> Area and facility for sporting activity.
>> Okay. does not apply to family use and you put no. So what is that area and facility for sporting activity? >> So my understanding we don't really have a way of defining this because there's no definition or bylaw. So we kind of
guessed for a lot of other things. Uh we assume it's like a sports field or like a soccer field or like an outdoor field. >> But we have them all over the center. >> We do, but that's a different zoning area. And also a lot of those are town owned. So if it was a privately owned field, we wouldn't allow for it
>> because we have another use kagra that talks about town owned properties >> which is different >> and private. >> So you know the baseball field center field owned by the town, the sports fields of the high school owned by the town, the high school owned by the town. So anything that's publicly owned, the zoning is more relaxed on it.
>> Okay. So you say I'm going to build a soccer field and I'm going to charge people to go in. >> That's a no. >> That's a no. The town that the town just doesn't want that anywhere in town. >> Yep. They only want publicly owned sports fields. And that's my understanding of looking at this use table.
>> Okay. So, get down to B. >> Can I wait a minute? >> Sure. >> If you if you don't mind. Go ahead. >> I'm hungry. >> I know you are. >> Hurry up. >> I I'm kind of like uh I I don't see anything wrong with that. >> No. >> I mean, we have Pioneer Gymnastics,
right? Smack dab in the middle of it. You got the cheerleading place. >> Yeah. >> Smack dab in the middle. Those are those are allowed. That's a different use category called recreation facility. Commercial. >> These are like outdoor facility. >> Outdoor sports field. So like if somebody came in and said, you know what,
>> I want to build a Thunderbirds outdoor field hockey practice facility or something and it's not owned by the town, >> that wouldn't be allowed. Or if it's like, I don't know, some guy comes and he's like, I want to put a baseball field here that I'm going to own. People can pay me to use it. Or like outdoor
batting cages or like outdoor anything. A lot of the stuff has to be restricted inside, but I mean it's up to you as the board to decide if you want to change that. >> Okay. >> So, we can't get a professional team in is what he's saying. >> If they own the facility. >> Yeah. So, that's unfortunate. >> Yeah. He's long metal redstone.
>> Okay. Just sticking that red. >> So, B. So, under B1 and two, I just want to put that off for now. >> Sure. >> Okay. And the same with like mixed use development. Just put that off for now.
And then I had the And I'm sorry if I'm hogging it, but um >> we talked about it. >> Yeah. Public or commercial garage? Yes, you have. Does anybody really think we need a a a
public garage? >> Like a parking garage? >> Parking garage. >> I mean, it's up to you. >> You missed one, >> huh? What did I miss? >> Oh, I'm not there yet. It was actually um I'm way up here. Mr. >> Chair, the reason why that was included um I think I have it down further as a
separate category. Parking garage um for special permit. >> Yeah, >> that was actually included in the town council's uh framework document as an allowable use. Parking garage facility or structure. That's pretty much it. And that's why it was put in there as a special permit. I mean
>> I mean it helps solve a lot of the parking problems we just discussed tonight if that could ever happen. I don't know where to go. But >> and parking garages could be designed where where you force them to put it at the back of the building and just have an entryway from the street so you don't see it. >> But if this is on the like focusing on
the development on the bike path, >> so you're saying it would either be on the bike path side or the street side, >> which would technically both be >> Well, it doesn't have to be. It just be right along the bike path. No, but >> yeah, my honest opinion, you only put parking garages in areas where it's
really dense and you can't find parking easily and you're going to walk from the parking garage to wherever you're going. The parking garage is most likely going to go right here in this area. It's not going to go this way because I imagine a lot of this is going to be mixed use, but not expensive. Commercially, it's
going to really require >> if I was putting a parking garage anywhere either here, >> here, but not there. >> Yeah. I got you. >> Yeah. >> When we're on the board, we talked like in the crane area >> behind like the health tracks, things like that, like a couple story one as
like a central parking spot, so you could walk to things. >> So, I think that's where that had come about. >> All right. >> But also like this parking lot's never used anyways. >> I mean, ever. >> Yeah. >> The one thing I've learned about parking is that everybody always complains there's no parking anywhere. >> And there's plenty. >> There's plenty. But you just have to
find it. >> Help people find it. >> No one wants to walk. >> Exactly. >> Parking. >> Help people find. That's how you solve the parking issue. >> I put I put a no for that >> for that one. >> Yeah. >> For parking garage or >> So that's an open item then. Can you mark that as an open item?
>> Sure. >> All right. And then I had a question on >> 10. >> Um and wireless telecommunication service or facilities >> and towers >> and towers. >> Is that also a law?
So, you can't violate the Telecommunications Act. >> So, it's a lot. >> But the reason why I put yes for that is because sometimes people put antennas on top of buildings. >> Yeah. >> And that's technically a cell phone antenna that requires approval from Yeah. That's why it was labeled as such.
>> And then convolescent assisted living, congregate, elderly, handicapped housing or nursing home. Oh, >> that's 14, correct? >> Yeah. And you have no >> Yep. So, I'm just going to say this. So, I mean, so I'm on the Brownstone Gardens
board of directors and we've had a discussion about the long range plan. Sure. >> Of possibly looking at Carlin Combustion >> because there is a ton of money available in tax credits for elder housing town centers.
>> Sure. And the amount of traffic that elderly uh facility, you know, elder housing >> creates is like slim and none. >> It's not a burden. >> Yeah. >> On that area here. So, I'd like to just
leave that the possibility. >> Would you want to make that a special permit like uses? >> Yeah. >> Is that an open item or is that a closed item? >> It's a closed item. Okay. >> Let's make that special. >> Make a special permit. >> Then you got hospital or sanatorium medical clinic. Yep.
>> So, I can agree. No hospital, no sanatorium, >> but why not medical clinics? >> Yeah, that's it's labus. It was a special permit. >> It'd be case by case. I don't think they're going to put a big hospital. >> No, >> maybe like a minute clinic or something. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Like a small office
>> and then parking garage. >> Yeah. Well, we we talked parking garage. What about commercial schools? >> Commercial schools. Um, I only put yes for that one because it's allowed by right in the other commercial and business districts. So, I kind of
mimicked that pattern. >> That's up to you guys. >> Um, >> commercial condominiums. >> Commercial condominiums. I was so thought process. So, one thing trying to think outside
the box, and I think I've mentioned it a couple times, is if you if you're it's more going to be kind of related to a uh I guess a professional services. So, a lawyer, an architect, uh an engineer.
So, you can buy a condo and live in it and also have your office space in it. and people can actually go and see you at your office, but you also have a residential component. >> So that's that's not what that is. So I looked it up and basically what it is,
it's like >> it's a good that idea though. >> It's it's like a an office building owned by one person and instead of renting space, it's basically just a condominium for commercial uses. So nobody's really living there per se. The way those are set up is that you have
say like I don't know 10 office spaces. Each individual owner could own one of those office spaces and it's basically like a condominium >> like next took. >> You don't see them too often. They exist and that's another thing that the town council draft sent to me included and
that's why I put that in this table. >> That's Russ and I were talking about that's like next to Snow. >> That's like a what? Sorry. >> Next to Sonok gas station. >> Westwood in North Maine. You've got those office complex back there. >> Yeah. It's like one building, but each individual owner Yeah.
>> owns that and pays taxes and fees or whatever. Yeah. >> Like a condo association, except it's just for the businesses. >> Okay. It's basically like a non-residential condo. That's all it is. >> Could you do it under special permit? >> I mean, it's allowed. Well, I don't
know. This is a new use that we're proposing. So I I kind of just mimicked business, commercial, even industrial and then this by right because of the type of use that it is. I mean that's up to you. >> See this? Okay. >> But you do allow professional offices in
general by right in these areas as well. So it kind of makes sense to kind of keep those two separate. I think if you did special per commercial condominium, less people are going to want to do it. It seems like a prohibitive step so to speak. But also, if you allow
it by right, it makes it easier for those spaces that might be underutilized to easily be filled. So there's no vacancies. That's just my honest opinion. >> So my next are Pete and mine. Pete Pete and I had a meeting of the minds as much
as possible on this. So I'm at uh so I think I figured out specialty food market. >> Yep. >> So we would not allow a supermarket. Nope. But we would allow a specialty market that's 5,000 square feet or less. >> Yep.
>> So that's small. So Okay. >> And the reason for that is because again another item that was identified in that draft that I was sent um by the council. I looked it up and a lot of the common definitions of a supermarket is that they have to be 5,000 ft or bigger. Usually they're way bigger than that,
but I figured 5,000 for a smaller market makes more sense. Again, it's like your deli shop or small grocery store that people could walk to. that's not very big. Uh just basically food retail that's smaller in size. >> So if we're taking out the gas station on Shaker Road.
>> Mhm. >> And cuz you've got gasoline filling station by special permit. >> Yep. >> So do we just make that no >> for gasoline filling station? >> Yeah. >> 10 10 through 13. >> 13. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> I mean that's definitely You're right.
You could say no to those if you wanted to. >> Yes. >> Just keep those outside maybe. >> Yeah. changed up. >> Oh, the takeout place or they're going to have seating. So, I was going to say, wow, you snuck in under that one. >> Yeah. And I, you know, 20 seats max
because I feel like that's most appropriate. I think that's a good way to distinguish between regular restaurant and smaller cafe takeout establishment. Um, it kind of lifts the burden of having them get a special permit if realistically that business is only going to last maybe a year. Yeah. >> Tops most of the time.
>> Um, what's the difference between the restaurant and the takeout food establishment? Why is one special permit ones? Yes. >> So restaurants are for the larger businesses. So say like your villaas versus the small sandwich shops that you >> cottage food operation place.
>> So realistically you're looking at people that primarily come and go get their food versus people that go and just >> have a big difference. >> And lastly, we have co-working business space. Uh, Mr. Paige pointed out that wasn't allowed in the commercial and
business districts. I just kind of changed that to be a yes for those as well as the Okay. Right here. So then private garage. >> Yep. So, you're talking about um private
garage >> says private garage or storage space for not more than five vehicles shall be permitted on a lot not for lease. The standards and conditions of the section shall not apply to any business,
commercial or industrial use. So basically the reasoning for that is to allow for parking. If you have maintenance vehicles, if there was a garage and it's a mixeduse building, if people live
above it, they have the option to potentially do like a garage space for each of those units or >> it's up to you. >> Let's put that one on hold for now. >> So you want to make that an open item? >> Yeah. That's the home occupation of cottage food.
>> Didn't you just Can you repeat what you just said about that? >> He didn't talk about that one. >> I thought you did. >> You want me to bring that one up? >> So, is this the is this the one we did a couple of years ago where the woman wanted to do micro baking? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yep. That's legitimate. The only thing
we allow for with home occupations is that you can't have customers come in going from the property, right? has to be either online or you're doing stuff offsite. >> You can use it as your base of operations. >> Can't store anything outside. Has to be garage. You only use like I think it's 30% of the existing
>> building, 20% of the existing building for your business. >> Um I've had a lot of people apply through business licenses that we tell you can only use your home for like an administrative area, right? >> And if you have equipment, vehicles, you have to store that in a garage. We don't
have open air storage. I make that very clear to people. If you're doing any sort of like, you know, a I don't know, if you're making like a maker space or something or if you're doing like a studio, all that has to be done inside. You can't do that outside. >> Um, since we haven't approved homes in
there, >> residential property, should we just continue that also? >> I think we already put that um as an item that Russell wanted the table was the single family homes and I think the multif family as well. >> This whole thing here. Well, no, that's that's the that's that right there.
Yeah. Right. That's the home >> home occupation or cottage food operation, >> right? Since we have an agreed home, that makes sense. Yeah. Continue that. >> Just continue that. Yep. And >> I do want to say um lastly at the bottom, ADUs. So, the reason why
we have to update those is because state law requires that where single play homes are allowed, you have to allow for ADUs as well. Um that's also an open item because we guess for the next. >> So, I'm going to mark that as such. So, who who did you find that's doing a
good job? >> Well, I do not have the best of news. I only found one community. >> Okay. >> Out of like 10. >> And who did you find? >> I'm going to explain to you in one second. >> This helicopter somewhere. >> I didn't know you had one.
>> So, these communities I found that are similar to us in population. >> Yeah. >> Those are reasons why they don't relate to this project. So, East Hampton, they're doing it slowly over time, not as broad scale as this amendment. Actton and Mansfield, they're doing MBTA
compliance, which has nothing to do with us. And then Reading was doing it through 40R, which has nothing to do with us, but Westboro is doing something similar to what we are doing. So basically they're trying to rewrite their downtown districts as well to incorporate mixed use to make it
more consolidated to make it clearer to allow for more commercial activity to allow for the mixeduse buildings. So you know first floor commercial second floor residential um try to adapt their zoning for the modern market in these areas and they're trying to combine all those multiple
districts into one. Um, just lastly, some key takeaways from that. Um, they did approve this at their recent town meeting on March 24th. They're trying to promote a walkable area, pedestrian friendly streets, which is a big proponent of this initiative. They focus
more on incremental density, which means that instead of having it all come at once, you allow for it to slowly happen over time, which I could see happening in this town as well. I think it'd be good to get advice from them on how they word their amendments so we can try to mimic and follow suit if we feel that's
appropriate. They believe in economic vitality. They don't want to see large scale urbanization. A lot of what we want to see in Esau Meadow is slowly over time to allow for the zoning to change now, but then to allow development to organically flow so it doesn't overwhelm our infrastructure and
doesn't cause terrible traffic issues. So the town has time to respond to that. And that's the contact their plan director. Her name is Her name is Jenny Jingris. >> So, I was going to reach out to Miss Jingris and just see like what worked for her uh what she recommends us to do
um and maybe take advice and see if it works out in this situation. >> Can we get a copy of what was approved at her town meet? >> Yeah, I could definitely uh find that for you. >> Um I mean everybody here probably knows West Hartford. Is that just too big or
beyond our scale? >> Yeah. >> To look at different state. Yeah, I I always caution against using other states because their zoning laws are different. Um, you know, Connecticut is definitely more laxed. Um, but I don't think they have home rule as much there.
So, the communities are forced to abide by what the state wants them to do. I think Massachusetts the perfect way to look at this because Massachusetts has a strong home rule. We kind of have to follow similar patterns to other communities. >> We know at this know at this time they're not allowing.
>> So, he did say he's going to delay that. So, we missed one here. >> Which one's that? >> Uh, garaging or parking commercial vehicles notwithstanding uh section 458.8 additional criteria for homebased trade.
We've got a Y there, but since we aren't going to have any homes there at this time, we should continue that. This page is okay. And that's under Okay. Yeah, I can mark that. Okay.
>> So, do we want to make that a definite no or is that item for next time? >> Next time. Next time. >> All right. What do you got for your report, Rob? >> Sure. Can I ask one last question? >> Sure. >> What do you guys want to talk about next time? >> Those are some topics there that we could talk about. I don't know what you want to talk about. I don't know what's
appropriate. Can we can we talk about now we're gonna we're not going to meet for a month. >> Yes. >> Or more. Um can we I mean can we start working on putting together a meeting with developers? >> Yeah, we can do that. >> So I think at a minimum we should talk
to the people who actually do business here in Esau Meadow. >> Some might not have any interest at all but I'd like to just re reach out to them and say hey we called you in. You know, we're looking, you know, potential.
So, no promises on anything. What What would you see here in >> Yep. So, you know, we got like Mike Carabetta, we got Brea, we've got the guy who did uh Rose or Rosewood, who is what's his name? Do you remember?
>> No. >> Um, you know what I'm talking about? Rose Builders. >> Yeah. Behind Graanos. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That down by the quarry. >> Yeah. You got John Molton Bray. You're in that world, aren't you? Rob, do you know other um
>> guys doing work here? >> Oh, yeah. L Yeah. And who's who did Bella Vista? >> I think it's Caretta. >> No, I don't think Caretta. No. >> Who was >> Vista? Oh, it was some other person. I forgot.
for contractors. I think >> he's the guy who came in and uh >> did uh great, you know, he when Rebecca was doing the town district >> and the place in Wilberham. >> Yeah. >> He built that there for that one. I know. >> I asked that too.
>> She might know who that. >> Yeah, she definitely would. >> Yeah. >> And I also had I have a list of 10 people that I found. >> Okay. I'm hoping that they can I was going to try to make this like a big campaign to advertise these meetings just so people can attend them. Um I
figured we could figure out when we want that to be. I don't know if we want to wait until the June 19th meeting to make that date official or if you rather just decide that now or offline. I mean it's your choice. >> I think if you can get people here on June Well, I will not be here. I will call in.
>> That's a bad we did that first July meeting. >> It's fine with me. >> Okay. Seven. after the fourth. I mean, people will >> Yeah. >> be off enough at that point, you know, partied off. Uh hopefully able to attend a meeting, talk about zoning, right?
>> So, will there be it is everyone here expecting to be here on that June 16th meeting? >> I'm good throughout except for the 19th which we're canceling anyways. >> Yeah. Okay. So, I I will >> we're not going.
>> No. Okay. >> So, >> last minute planner. I'll probably wait until early June to start advertising this fine >> for that July just to give like a month. And uh >> I mean some guys might just say no I'm not coming you know that's >> I have a lot of people interested. I talked to >> quite a lot of people including Mr.
Plant, Mr. Beretta. Uh >> I don't want to say many more names. I want perspective but the ones we know they all want to contribute to discussions on so >> I think it's important to get their feedback but yeah no I'll start that in June. >> Okay. What else you got? >> Yeah. >> Uh that's it. I mean, >> all right.
>> You have an idea of what you want to talk about at the June 19th meeting or do you not care at the moment? >> Yeah, I think we're done for tonight. >> Okay, that's fine. So, I'll uh >> have ideas on this on this, you know, concept and what we're talking about. Send them to Rob.
>> Sure. So, what if I included general requirements at a June 19th meeting? >> So, general requirements mean what? >> Just a section of uh the new bylaw called general requirements. It's like a page page and a half of stuff. Uh it talks about all those things in there.
So um leaving out parking density bonuses and design guidelines because design guidelines is going to take a whole yeah effort itself. I mean it's something else to talk about that's outside of use table and the map. It seems like we're finalized with the map. I mean unless you want the map to come
back at a later meeting. No, but use table definitely. >> Absolutely. >> Okay. So, I'll try to not make it a heavy meeting, but I just want to make you aware that's going to be potentially what we discuss. Um, so director's reports and I'll go through it quickly so we can leave. Just give me one
moment. Okay. So, I don't have a whole lot. You have the meeting dates there. Russell, you're unavailable on the 19th. >> Y, you're off on August 4th. I just wanted you guys to know that I acknowledge that. >> We don't have a meeting on June 2nd and we don't have a meeting on May 19th either. So, you guys get some time off.
Hopefully, enough time to look at this bylaw. Um, few updates. So, our comprehensive zoning study, our consultant, Barrett Planning Group, is wrapping up their final report and they're going to be sending it to us in the middle of next week. Uh, our open space and recreation plan update, we are still finalizing our contract with Pioneer Valley with work expected to
start in the next month or so. And then finally, Rear Peas Road Solar. They finally sent us their decommissioning plan and bond. uh we are going to review those and I guess approve their next step in the building permit process once we've reviewed those and have uh our town
attorney take a look as well. >> So that's pretty much all I have and uh take it away. >> Motion to adjurnn. So move >> second. Second. >> Any discussion? Hearing none. All in favor say I. I. >> I. Thank you.