ZBA grants variance for two townhome units at 756 2nd St.; condition forbids additional ADUs

Peter Bemis presented a plan to redevelop 756 2nd St., a preexisting nonconforming lot, into two side‑by‑side townhome units with four on‑site parking spaces. Bemis said the lot’s shape and dimensions render reasonable redevelopment difficult without variance relief under Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 48 §10.

Board members noted prior approvals and the property’s redevelopment history and asked technical questions about setbacks and fence lines; Bemis said the proposal would blend with neighboring multifamily buildings. A motion to grant the variance passed with a stated condition of “no further ADUs” and usual site plan review requirements.

The board directed conditions to include compliance with site plan review and confirmation from building inspection regarding parking and utility separation; those conditions will be vetted during permitting.