John DePriest

The board conducted an executive session to review the Appellate Tax Board docket, discuss abatement applications, and address matters pursuant to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 30A, Section 21. Furthermore, the board recorded financial commitments related to Motor Vehicle Excise.

The agenda for the meeting, which was subsequently canceled, included roll call, review of the minutes from the February 3rd, 2026 meeting, discussion regarding Local Historic Significance Designation for 50 Beacon Street, a report back on the Preservation Restriction Agreement, collaboration with the For Kids Only Program, potential projects for 2026, and updates on the Historic Preservation Plan and Green Zoning.

The meeting included several key discussions and hearings. The Board addressed a request for a Design Modification for the 284 Eastern Avenue project (Energizar Storage LLC), proposing to replace the building-based battery energy storage system (BESS) with external enclosures. Public hearings were held regarding proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance for Accessory Dwelling Units (ZA26-01) to align with state requirements, and for establishing the Fitzpatrick-Prattville Smart Growth Overlay District (ZA26-02) to permit multi-family and mixed-use development under Chapter 40R. The Board also held a continued discussion on the proposed West Chelsea Mixed-Use Overlay District (WCMOD) to spur growth and enable transit-oriented development. Other business included a discussion on updating the Planning Board Rules of Procedure and the election of Planning Board Officers.

The commission primarily focused on planning the Youth Rise Fest within a $5,000 budget. Decisions included which giveaway items (tote-bags, T-shirts, stickers, self-care kits) and activities (tattoo/henna painting, simple caricature artist) to keep, and which to cut (360 photobooth, graphic designer). Specific tasks were assigned for poster creation, contacting organizations, booth preparation, second grant application, outreach to 8th graders, finalizing financial aspects, and consolidating questions for spokespeople. The planned schedule for the Fest involves setup, opening doors, activity time, a panel discussion, and a collaboration with the CHS basketball coach for a "Let It Fly" activity. The meeting also announced an upcoming Education Fair and a Kennedy Institute Field Trip.

Key discussion points involved a potential collaboration with ROCA for Women's History Month in March 2026, focusing on an educational component regarding online safety and women empowerment/entrepreneurship through guest speakers or a panel presentation. Ideas included a peacekeeping circle regarding domestic violence and the female experience. The Commission plans to reach out to the City Council president to provide an update on their work and discussed the scope of public statements and advocacy boundaries. Commitments were made for finalizing and posting a resource guide online. The Commission also intends to collaborate with the City Council on issues related to economic development.