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Board approves Salt and Light change-of-use at 29 Hampshire Street with life‑safety inspection condition
Summary
The Auburn Planning Board granted a special exception to convert 29 Hampshire Street to the Salt and Light Community Center (private club/hall type) in the T‑5.1 downtown traditional center district, subject to a life‑safety inspection by the fire department before occupancy.
The Auburn Planning Board on March 11 approved a change‑of‑use special exception for 29 Hampshire Street to allow operation of the Salt and Light Community Center in the downtown T‑5.1 form‑based code district.
Planning staff said the center’s proposed activities best fit the code category "private clubs, halls and indoor amusement," which is a special exception in that district. The project involves mostly interior renovations with a reduced curb cut to bring the site into compliance with off‑street access standards; the applicant and staff also worked to identify some on‑site parking spots and the police department reviewed parking and public‑safety implications.
Darlene, the Salt and Light director, said the nonprofit will deliver programs for at‑risk children and families in the neighborhood and that the organization previously operated using shared spaces (church basement, parks) and rented athletic facilities.
The board approved the special exception with conditions including: engineering determination of bonding/inspection fees if applicable; a blasting permit in advance of any blasting (not anticipated); and a required life‑safety inspection by the Auburn Fire Department before issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
Board members and staff noted the site has crosswalks, sidewalks and lighting in the area and that the police department had no unresolved concerns about proposed on‑street parking needs.
