To the editor:
I want to set the record straight about the proposed development of 12 apartments at the parking lot site at 58 Ocean St.
In the months before the petition was filed with the City Council, I met with the property owner, whose original proposal was for many more units and was lacking adequate on-site parking. He was persuaded to go back to the drawing board and sharpen his pencil.
I know well and am familiar with the issues in the Ocean Street area, which has existing multi-family residences, restaurants, a funeral home, and other local businesses in close proximity to one of the finer Lynn neighborhoods.
At my request, an on-site neighborhood meeting was held on a warm June Saturday morning. In attendance were many neighbors who responded to the widespread mailing I required, far in excess of the minimum number city statutes and ordinances require.
More than 100 letters were mailed to residents. Those who came out — and there were many — met with the owner and his wife, the project’s architect, and lawyer.
Questions from me and the neighbors were answered. I sought and listened to the concerns of those present, the overwhelming number of whom were in favor of the proposal.
The special permit request was approved by unanimous vote of the CIty Council, following a required public hearing, at which any person can speak, including elected officials, appointees, city employees, and residents.
The privately-funded housing features two age-restricted units for the elderly and now has all required on-site parking.
Next, the city approval process in place requires site plan review by the many city department heads who make up that review committee.
I am hopeful and confident that review of the plans presented will achieve the desired goal sought: more housing stock in Lynn; responsible development minutes from the train station; safe, efficient new housing and a broader tax base to help homeowners needing taxpayer relief.
Darren Cyr
Ward 3 councilor
Candidate for mayor of Lynn
