Gloucester Public Hearings Consider Zoning Amendments for Multifamily Conversions and Demolition Delay

The Gloucester City Council meeting on April 8, 2025, focused on several public hearings regarding amendments to zoning regulations and special permits for residential developments.

The meeting opened with a continuation of a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Gloucester Zoning Ordinance (GZO). The first item discussed was the addition of a new section, 3.1.9, which addresses changes of use without exterior modifications. This hearing, initially opened on March 25, will continue until May 13, 2025.

Another significant topic was the proposed amendment to introduce a demolition delay under section 5-21 of the GZO. This public hearing, also opened on March 25, is set to continue until May 27, 2025.

The council then moved on to a public hearing concerning a specific property at 960 Washington Street. The proposal involves converting the site into a four-family dwelling unit, which requires special permits for reduced laundry space, open space, and building heights exceeding 35 feet. Salvador Frontiero, representing the applicant HP Development Corp, spoke in favor of the project, emphasizing the need for these special permits to meet the development's requirements.

The discussions highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to address housing needs and zoning regulations in Gloucester City. Further deliberations on these matters are expected in the coming weeks as public hearings continue.