The board considered a site-plan application to convert a single-family dwelling at 148 Franklin Street into a three-unit multiple dwelling with four off-street parking spaces and associated retaining walls and landscaping.

Owner Joe Sala said the property has been granted the required use variances and that plans call for new front and rear porches, replacement siding and a new driveway serving four parking stalls. Board members asked for more detailed existing-conditions documentation and asked the applicant to work with the design consultant on porch details and façade elements that match the block context; staff recommended an architect’s review to refine small-scale design choices.

The board voted to establish a $1,500 escrow for architectural review to allow the planning board consultant to provide targeted recommendations; staff and the applicant agreed to expedite the consultant review so that the matter can return on the next agenda once the consultant’s comments and any departmental comments are resolved. Engineering staff also requested a stormwater prevention/basic plan review for the driveway and retaining walls as part of usual departmental review.

The applicant was given the deadline for the next packet and advised to submit updated drawings, an existing-conditions sheet and any materials the consultant requests to expedite final staff comments.