MINUTES OF THE PLANNING BOARD CONTINUED
PUBLIC HEARING
HONEY DEW DONUTS SITE PLAN REVIEW
DECEMBER 12, 2007
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Patricia Halpin, John Baker, Karen Paré, Lawrence Salate, Vincent Vignaly
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Jeff Nathan, Matt Brassard, Nick Moudios
Mr. Matt Brassard appeared on behalf of Honey Dew Donuts. He stated that the project is still undergoing review by the DCR but it has received an “OK” from Mass Highway. Mr. Jeff Nathan, review engineer from VHB, stated that VHB has issued four review letters: June 26th, October 15th, December 6th and December 11th. The final letter recommended approval of the project with Waivers and conditions. The Waivers include plan scale of 1”=20’; reduction in the required 50’ distance to 40’ between the proposed driveway and Chapman Avenue; and NRCS method in lieu of Rational Method for drainage pipe design. Variances from the ZBA must include approval for the reduction in the number of parking spaces from 34 to 25;
reduction in the required property line setback to six feet; and reduction in the sign setback from the front property line to two feet (this last requiring approval by the Building Inspector). Recommended conditions include the submission of a stamped and signed existing conditions plan; submission of the ZBA approvals as well as that of the Building Inspector for the sign setback; submission of a copy of Mass Highway’s Access and Utility Permits; submission of the earth removal permit and a condition that only SU-30 and smaller vehicles access the site.
Ms. Paré inquired whether all the changes that had been recommended in VHB’s December 6th letter have been made, and Mr. Brassard stated they had been, including a reconfigured storm septor. She also inquired how the applicant means to justify to the ZBA a reduction in the number of parking spaces to 25. Mr. Moudios, the applicant/owner, replied that he will submit statements and documentation based upon traffic at his other businesses proving that 25 spaces will be adequate. Peak action at the site will occur in the morning at the drive-thru window. Ms. Halpin questioned the adequacy of “stacking capacity” in the queuing line and Mr. Brassard assured her that it is adequate. Mr. Vignaly pointed out that, if the owner sells the property or changes its use, the new
use will be limited by the number of approved parking spaces. Mr. Moudios stated that the size of the building will not change and occupancy determines the required number of parking spaces. Ms. Paré suggested that the ZBA be requested to grant the Variance with the condition that any future
Minutes of the Continued Public Hearing -2-
Honey Dew Donuts
change of use of the building will require the owner file for another Variance for parking. The Variance runs with the property, Mr. Vignaly stated, and needs the building use to be supported by the number of parking spaces. Mr. Vignaly will write a letter to the ZBA stating that position.
Mr. Baker inquired whether trees will be saved during the construction process. Although the oak tree cannot be saved because it blocks the sight line, new plantings will be added, Mr. Brassard replied. “Street trees” of a good size will be planted which are tolerant of many planting situations. Mr. Baker also inquired whether operational guidelines will be included for the swale and Mr. Brassard stated that maintenance tasks will be listed on the O&M plan. The swale should remain dry with no more 1” accumulating during a storm because the soil is well-drained. Mr. Baker agreed but stated that he wants to see notes on the plan. He also determined that an earth removal permit will be needed and that there will be 23 seats in the restaurant. The flow from the
lot is towards the back catch basin where it will be treated in the swale. The driveway flows towards Route 12 and will only overflow if there are problems with the trench. Mr. Salate inquired what type of fencing will surround the dumpster and Mr. Brassard stated that it will be screened with vegetation. Mr. Vignaly added that the Bylaws do not allow chain link fences but vinyl is OK.
Upon motion of Ms. Paré and second of Mr. Baker, it was unanimously voted to close the public hearing.
Date Accepted:_____________ By:___________________________
Karen Paré, Clerk
Submitted By:_________________________
Susan Abramson
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