Marshfield Teen Center Expansion Secures Approval Alongside Scenic Roadway Wall Restoration

Key Points

  • Caleb Johnson seated as the newest Associate Member of the Planning Board
  • Approval granted for stone wall removal and reconstruction at 247 Winslow Street
  • Cottage at 247 Winslow Street to be converted into an Accessory Dwelling Unit
  • Special permit modification approved for a new 5,600-square-foot Teen Center at the Boys and Girls Club
  • Confirmation provided that no trees will be disturbed during the Proprietors Drive construction
  • Town regains interim compliance status for MBTA communities mandate
  • Seaport Economic Council awards $98,000 grant to the town

The Planning Board began its November session by welcoming Caleb Johnson as its newest associate member. Johnson expressed his appreciation to the group, stating, Thank you for having me, guys, as he took his seat for the remote meeting. The board quickly moved into a scenic road hearing regarding 247 Winslow Street, where homeowner Jacqueline Creed presented plans to temporarily remove a stone wall to facilitate the construction of a new primary residence. Creed explained that the existing cottage on the lot would be converted into an accessory dwelling unit, noting that upon completion of the project, we're going to rebuild the stone wall and we'd like two gravel driveway openings to improve safety on the busy road. Katharine O'Donnell sought to ensure the density of the lot remained within regulations, remarking, I just wanted to clarify that there were going to like it's a house and an ADU, not two houses on one lot.

Following a brief discussion regarding DPW requirements for the wall, Motion Made by Michael Biviano Jr. to approve the scenic wall change on the scenic road as proposed. Vote Passed 5-0. The board then transitioned to a special permit modification for the Boys and Girls Club at 37 Proprietors Drive. Garrett Horsefall of Kelly Engineering Group detailed the plans for a new 5,600-square-foot teen center, emphasizing that the project aims to enhance current amenities rather than increase enrollment capacity. Horsefall assured the board that the building has been cited to avoid the septic system and it complies with applicable setbacks, while maintaining the existing storm water management systems. Nik Pappastratis and Kevin Cantwell participated in the review, with Cantwell confirming his support during the roll call by stating, Kevin Cantwell. Aye. Nik Pappastratis similarly affirmed his vote, stating, Nik Pappastratis. Aye.

During the public comment portion of the teen center hearing, resident Jennifer Yang voiced concerns regarding the local landscape, stating, I just wanted to verify that you're not going to cut down any trees on proprietors. Horsefall confirmed that the tree buffer would remain intact. Member Fred Monaco chose to step back from the deliberations, stating, I will recuse myself from this because I volunteer there, highlighting his ongoing community involvement. Motion Made by Michael Biviano Jr. to approve the special permit for the modification to add the teen center. Vote Passed 5-0. Chair Michael Biviano Jr. shared a lighthearted moment with the Winslow Street applicant after a brief technical glitch, joking, So, we voted for it, but you can't do it. Just kidding.

In the final portion of the meeting, Town Planner Greg Demon provided an optimistic staff report, informing the board that the state has placed the town back into interim compliance regarding MBTA communities. Demon also highlighted a financial win for the municipality, noting that the Seaport Economic Council has awarded the money that was supposed to go to the town which was $98,000, which will allow funds to be returned to free cash. Following the update, the board concluded its business for the evening. The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 p.m.