SAUGUS — The Planning Board approved the proposed development of 22 residential units on the Pranker Mills site at 180 Central St. during its Thursday meeting.
The project was first proposed by applicant Steve Boccelli of 180 Central Development LLC nearly two years ago. The long-awaited decision on the project seemed imminent based on a draft decision that was recently written by Planning Director Chris Reilly.
Before the board voted 3-0 to approve the development, with Board member Richard Thompson absent, the standard conditions of the draft decision were negotiated one last time between the board and Boccelli.
The board laid out 32 conditions in addition to the 95 conditions imposed by the Conservation Commission, which the applicant had already agreed to before Thursday’s meeting. Boccelli explained that the only change in the design plan that the board received in April was the removal of one parking spot due to the Fire Department’s recommendation.
Boccelli questioned Condition 15, which pertains to a potential lapse of approval if construction does not begin within six months. Reilly clarified that the condition can be flexible and does not necessarily refer to physical construction. In addition, the applicant can approach the board for a time extension if needed.
Condition 23, which required that all landscaped areas be irrigated with an automatic watering system, was removed at Boccelli’s request. Instead, a new condition requires that if foliage dies, the applicant must replace it.
Condition 29 requires the applicant to maintain snow-plow service to the property in perpetuity.
“That means if that company goes under or that contract is extinguished, they have to get another service,” Reilly said.
Condition 31 pertains to sidewalk and curb installation. Reilly noted that the sidewalk must be 5 feet in width, including the 4-inch curb.
Board Chair John O’Brien acknowledged the amount of time it took for the development to be approved, as well as the large number of conditions. However, he is confident the project will positively impact the town.
“I’m not against development,” O’Brien said. “I support proper development.”
