DRB split on advisability of four‑story PUD building near the racetrack; no majority reached

Beardsley architect Chase Brown (S15) presented refined visualizations and a geolocated model of a condominium structure (Building 7) within a PUD between Nelson Avenue and Frank Sullivan Place near the Saratoga Race Course. The planning board requested an advisory opinion from the DRB on massing and height compatibility.

Board members were divided. Chair (S1) said the building is "too tall" and incompatible with the modest, small‑scale neighborhood, arguing the track should not set neighborhood height. Other members (S6 and S10) argued the site is uniquely associated with the racecourse and that high‑quality materials and careful detailing make the scale defensible within the PUD parameters. Because Leslie DeCarlo recused earlier on another item and one board member was absent, the board did not have the four votes needed to issue a formal advisory opinion; the chair said the item will be tabled for a future meeting so the DRB can try to reach a majority.