Council debates elected Zoning Board of Appeals; motion referred to legislative affairs

A motion to establish an elected Zoning Board of Appeals in Revere prompted an extended debate Thursday about accountability, expertise and cost. The council voted to send the proposal to the legislative affairs committee for further study and possible drafting of a home‑rule petition.

Councilor Cogliandro, the motion’s sponsor, argued the change would return power to neighborhoods and increase accountability. He told colleagues the ZBA had handled 108 variance requests since January 2022, of which “3 were withdrawn, 10 were denied and 95 were approved,” and said that history justified allowing voters to choose board members instead of leaving appointments to the mayor and council confirmation process.

Opponents warned of unintended consequences. Councilor Garrino Suaya said making the ZBA elected would be impractical because “the position currently only pays a thousand dollars a year,” which could deter qualified candidates and could lead to pressure to raise compensation. Councilor Kelly supported the motion as a path to accountability but noted that a Home Rule Petition would be required and that the council could consider limiting some ZBA authorities if the change to elections did not advance. Council President Silvestri expressed concerns that shifting appointment power to elections could politicize the board and create additional costs for the city.

After debate the council referred the motion to the legislative affairs committee to refine the proposal and consider legal steps, including whether a Home Rule Petition is required.