Zoning subcommittee endorses special permit to convert 5-unit building into 6 units at 30 Campbell Ave.

The Revere City Zoning Subcommittee unanimously recommended that the full City Council grant a special permit allowing the conversion of a five-unit building into a six-unit structure at 30 Campbell Avenue, with conditions requiring code upgrades and final fire-suppression plan approval.

Applicant Nick Dare said he purchased the distressed property in August 2024 and has completed several exterior repairs, asbestos abatement and siding and window replacements. Dare told the subcommittee the proposed sixth unit would be created within the third-floor unfinished space and would not change the building’s height or footprint; the new unit would be about 720 square feet.

Dare said he will add four parking spaces as part of the project and that the unit conversion will trigger mandatory code upgrades. “By doing this sixth unit, it will trigger code upgrades that I'll be happy and welcome,” Dare said, listing sprinkler systems, a central fire alarm and proper egress as examples.

Councilors said they had held a neighborhood meeting; three residents attended and expressed support. Ward Councilor McKenna told the subcommittee she would continue to monitor the property; Councilor Novosalski and others described the work as the type of rehabilitation they want to encourage in the neighborhood.

Site Plan Review Committee conditions read into the record require bringing the property into compliance with building, electrical, plumbing and fire codes for all units, and final fire plans must be reviewed and approved by the Fire Department and Site Plan Review Committee prior to issuance of any permits.

The roll-call vote was recorded as unanimous in favor; the favorable recommendation will be forwarded to the full City Council for final decision.