Neighbors question trash, noise and snow storage as board hears 14‑unit Hillside Ave proposal
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Summary
At a public hearing, applicants proposed demolishing existing structures to build a three‑story, 14‑unit multifamily building under the MBTA overlay. The board was told the project meets MFOD dimensional standards, requests one driveway setback waiver and proposes 17 parking spaces and two affordable units; neighbors raised trash, train noise, dogs and snow‑storage concerns.
The Planning Board heard the public hearing for 242 Hillside Ave on Dec. 2, where the applicant proposed demolishing existing structures and building a three‑story, 14‑unit multifamily rental building under the multifamily overlay (MFOD/MBTA) rules.
Attorney George Guinford Jr. told the board the proposal complies with the MFOD dimensional and density standards and requests a single waiver for a driveway section that sits within the four‑foot sideline setback to improve ingress and egress. The design calls for 14 dwelling units across three principal floors and a partial lower level; two units (Unit 1D and Unit 3C) will be designated affordable, and Unit 1B will be fully accessible. The team proposed 17 parking spaces in the rear (9 full, 8 compact) with two accessible van spaces and bicycle parking for 14 bikes.
Architect Scott Melton described a residential‑scaled design with steep roof pitches and dormers to conceal a third story, inset balconies, pedestrian access from Hillside Avenue, and an accessible rear entry from the parking area. Melton said mechanical equipment will be roof‑mounted in a screened mechanical well and the building is designed for all‑electric heat pumps. The team said they are not proposing rooftop solar as a primary energy source, noting roof area limits.
Neighbors asked focused operational questions during public comment. Molly Line (323 Hillside) asked about trash management and rodent control; the applicant said once‑weekly trash and recycling pickup is planned, with the option to increase frequency if complaints arise. Concern about train noise prompted discussion of window/insulation choices; the team said double‑pane, argon‑filled windows are proposed and that acoustic mitigation (triple‑pane windows on the rear face) could be explored if needed.
Ellen Soderholm (805 Highland) asked whether dogs would be allowed; the applicant said they do not anticipate pets except for service animals. Jean McKnight and Bill Piersack raised questions about basement‑level unit egress and natural light, package delivery and how snow will be handled on the small site; the team said the lower units have egress wells and the dumpster and snow‑storage area are part of the plan but that off‑site removal could be used in large storms.
The project team noted they worked with the Design Review Board on planting and lighting and added a revised planting/lighting submittal before Thanksgiving. The police, DPW and fire department provided no objections in correspondence included in the application packet, and the applicant(s) said they will comply with town requirements including sidewalk snow removal for a multifamily property.
The board closed the public hearing by voice vote and will consider formal decision language and any conditions in a future meeting.
