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Commission narrows standards for philanthropic institutions after debate over permanent deed restrictions
Summary
The commission amended standards for philanthropic/institutional special exceptions to remove impossible dimensional criteria and to require dwelling units associated with these uses to "qualify" for affordable housing rather than be deed-restricted in perpetuity, following debate and a roll-call approval of the amended language.
The commission considered amendments to sections governing "elemoncenary/philanthropic institution" special exceptions, emphasizing that existing standards (25,000 sq ft lot, 150 ft frontage and large setbacks) effectively excluded such uses in the downtown B1 zone. Director Mary Kazakowski proposed eliminating those dimensional barriers and replacing them with practicable standards ensuring nonprofit status, adequate congregation space, and affordable-housing protections when housing is provided.
Commissioner Sebastian Giuliano and others objected to an original draft clause that would have required dwelling units associated with the use to be deed-restricted in perpetuity. After public discussion and testimony from Saint Vincent de Paul and the Middlesex Chamber, the commission reopened the public hearing, accepted an amendment to change the requirement from "shall be deed restricted" to "shall qualify for affordable housing pursuant to 8-30g," and then approved the amended text by roll call.
Mary Ellen Shuckrow, executive director of Saint Vincent de Paul, said the organization's project (coming later on the agenda) relies on the clarified standards and that Department of Housing funding commitments hinge on the city's approval. She noted the Department of Housing's recent commitment: "Department of Housing has committed... recently committed to 9,400,000," reflecting major state support for the local project.
