HomeMy WebLinkAboutDraft Decision - Decision - 0 Prescott Street 4/29/2026 Draft 4.29.26
Case No. [insert number]
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
NORTH ANDOVER ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
COMPREHENSIVE PERMIT DECISION
East Mill Housing LLC
0 Prescott Street,North Andover
RE: Application of East Mill Housing LLC, 17 Ivaloo Street, Somerville, Massachusetts 02143, for
Comprehensive Permit pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40B.
APPLICANT: East Mill Housing LLC, a Massachusetts Limited Liability Company that will
establish its limited dividend status
PROPERTY: 0 Prescott Street,North Andover,North Andover Assessors Map 68, Lot 10
(Parcel ID 068.0-0010-0000.0).
DEVELOPMENT: Zero Prescott
DATE: [insert date], 2026
North Andover Zoning Board of Appeals: Michael T. Lis, Chair
Laura Craig-Comin,Vice-Chair
Frank J. Killilea, Clerk
Alexandria A. Jacobs, Member
James M. Testa, Member
North Andover Special Counsel Carolyn M. Murray, Esquire
KP Law, P.C.
101 Arch Street, 12th Floor
Boston, MA 02110
For Petitioner: John T. Smolak, Esquire
Smolak&Vaughan
East Mill, 120 Water Street, Suite 406
North Andover, MA 01845
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I. Factual Background
Petitioner in this matter is East Mill Housing LLC, a Massachusetts limited liability company (the
"Applicant"), controlled by RCG North Andover Mills LLC("RCG").
The Applicant requests a Comprehensive Permit pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40B
("M.G.L. c. 4013"), Sections 20 through 23, as amended, to allow the construction of 296 rental units in
two multifamily buildings attached by a central parking garage to be called "Zero Prescott" (collectively,
the "Project") to be constructed upon a 6.13 +/- acre parcel which is currently improved by a two-story
parking garage at the corner of High and Prescot Streets at 0 Prescott Street (the "Property"). As detailed
in the application, the proposed residential development consists of two residential multi-family
buildings, adjoined by a central parking garage, each containing four to five stories with a combination of
studio, one,two, and three bedroom units.
1. The Project is located on approximately 6.13+/- acres of land, at 0 Prescott Street, located within
the Industrial S (I-S) and Residential 4 (R-4) zoning districts and the Downtown Overlay District
— Subdistrict A Historic Mill Area, all located in the Town of North Andover, Massachusetts (the
"Town"). The Property is listed by the North Andover Assessor's Office as Assessors Map 68,
Lot 10 (Parcel ID 068.0-0010-0000.0).
2. The Property is owned by RCG (the "Owner") pursuant to a quitclaim deed recorded with the
Essex North Registry of Deeds in Book 10601, Page 340. The Applicant has site control by virtue
of a related entity, RCG North Andover Mills LLC, which owns the site as is deemed by the
Subsidizing Agency to be sufficient to control the Site as required under Section 56.04(1)(c) of
the Chapter 40B Regulations.
3. The Project consists of 296 rental units distributed across two (2) multi-family residential
buildings connected at the center by a parking garage. The Project will be accessed via the
existing driveway entrance off of the adjacent subdivision road extending onto High Street,which
is currently, and will continue to be, shared with other uses at the East Mill. Building One
contains a gross square footage of 157,715 with 150 rental units with a makeup of 22 studio, 69
one bedroom, 43 two bedroom, and 16 three bedroom units. Building Two contains a gross
square footage of 158,738 with 146 rental units with a makeup of 25 studio, 50 one bedroom, 56
two bedroom, and 15 three bedroom units. 25% of the units will be designated as affordable to
households earning up to 80% of Area Median Income. Each building will be four to five stories,
adjoined by a central parking garage.
4. The Project application, plans, and documents set forth in Exhibit A, (collectively, the "Site
Development Plans") were received in the application or during the public hearing and are hereby
incorporated by reference in this decision(the "Decision").
II. Procedural History
1. The Applicant filed its application for a Comprehensive Permit pursuant to
M.G.L. c. 40B on October 23,2025
2. Upon agreement of the parties, the North Andover Zoning Board of Appeals
(the "Board") opened the public hearing on November 20, 2025,which hearing
was thereafter continued to January 20, 2026, February 25, 2026, March 24,
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2026, April 8, 2026, April 29, 2026, and [insert dates]. The Board voted to
close the public hearing on [insert date].
3. The Applicant's initial application submittals include:
a. Comprehensive Permit Application, dated October 21, 2025, including:
I. A cover letter to the Board, signed by Manager of RCG North
Andover Mills LLC David Steinbergh, dated October 21, 2025;
ii. Summary of the Applicant, Development Proposal, Local Need, and
Permit Request;
III. Jurisdictional Requirements;
iv. Site/Existing Conditions Report;
v. Narratives and Exhibits
vi. Attorney Signature Page signed by Attorney John Smolak;
vii. Board Signed Permit Application, signed by Manager of RCG
North Andover Mills LLC, David Steinbergh;
viii.Owner Authorization, signed by Manager of RCG North Andover
Mills LLC,David Steinbergh;
ix. Tabulation Data as required under Section 56.05(2)(d) of the
Chapter 40B regulations, and Section 3.01(d)of the Board's rules;
x. Applicant Entity Information, stating Applicant shall be a Limited
Dividend Organization as it is eligible to receive a Subsidy from a
Subsidizing Agency;
xi. Evidence of Site Control
I. Quitclaim Deed to RCG North Andover Mills LLC, dated
January 22,2007, recorded in Book 10601, Page 340;
il.Purchase and Sale Contract between RCG North Andover
Mills LLC and East Mill Housing LLC, dated June 11,
2025;
xii. Determination of Project Eligibility
I. Project Eligibility Letter issued by MassHousing,
MassHousing ID No. 1281, dated September 16, 2025;
xiii.Waiver request, as required under Section 56.05(2)(h) of the 40B
Regulations and Section 3.01(h) of the Board rules;
I. Waivers List addendum;
xiv.Applicant and Project Team presentation;
xv. Stormwater Management Report, prepared by Civil Design Group,
LLC, dated October 2025;
xvi.Transportation Impact Assessment Executive Summary, prepared
by Vanasse & Associates Inc ("VAI"), signed by Managing Partner
Jeffrey Dirk, P.E., dated October 2025;
xvii. Certified Abutters List, certified October 14, 2025;
xviii. Comprehensive Permit Site Development Plans for Zero
Prescott, prepared by Civil Design Group, LLC, dated October 21,
2025;
xix.Zero Prescott, Architectural Drawings, prepared by The
Architectural Team, Inc. ("tat"), dated October 21, 2025;
xx. Full Transportation Impact Assessment, Prepared by VAI, signed
by Managing Partner Jeffrey S. Dirk, P.E.,dated October 2025;
xxi.Full Stormwater Management Report, prepared by Civil Design
Group, LLC, dated October 2025, revised February 2026;
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xxii. Zoning Board of Appeals, November 20, 2025 public hearing
presentation, and
xxiii. East Mill Housing LLC Comprehensive Permit application,
signed by David Steinbergh, Manager of RCG North Andover Mills
LLC, dated October 23, 2025.
ii.Applicant's revised materials, Board Peer Reviewer Comments, and Responses
include:
a. Initial Technical Peer Review - Comprehensive Permit Application,
prepared by the Horsley Witten Group ("HW"), dated December 16, 2025;
b. Traffic Monitoring Peer Review, prepared by VHB, dated December 26,
2025, with attachments Traffic Monitoring Memorandums, prepared by
VHB on behalf of AvalonBay Communities, Inc., dated February 16, 2024
and February 10, 2025;
c. Peer Review Response to Comments by HW, prepared by Civil Design
Group, LLC("CDG"), dated February 11, 2026;
d. Second Technical Peer Review of the Comprehensive Permit Application,
prepared by HW of the Comprehensive Permit Application, revised
February 2026, dated March 3, 2026;
e. Peer Review Response to Comments by VHB,prepared by VAI in response
to the December 26, 2025 memorandum prepared by VHB, dated March 5,
2026;
f. Traffic Peer Review 42, prepared by VHB in response to VAI's March 6,
2026 letter, dated March 13,2026;
g. Peer Review for Architecture, Site Design & Landscaping, prepared by
Gamble Associates in response to drawing set dated November 14, 2025,
dated March 13, 2026 with addendum;
h. Third Technical Peer Review of the Comprehensive Permit Application
prepared by HW of the Comprehensive Permit Application, revised
February and March 2026, dated April 2, 2026;
In. Letters and Comments from Town Departments include:
a. Police Department Comments, dated March 16, 2026;
b. Building Department Comments, dated March 31, 2026;
c. Conservation Commission Comments, dated March 31, 2026;
d. Department of Public Works Comments, dated April 1, 2026 with attached
memorandum;
e. Fire Department Comments, dated April 6, 2026;
iv. Letters and Comments from Abutters include:
a. E-mail from Jean Enright, subject Prescott-High Street Project, dated
August 25, 2025;
b. Online form Submittal from Michale Ronayne, subject Concerns Regarding
Massive Housing Development at 0 Prescott Street (the East Mill Parking
Garage),North Andover, dated November 8, 2025;
c. E-mail from Robin Morgasen, subject Concerns over Proposed apartments
at High St. Mill,dated November 19, 2025;
d. E-mail from Andrew Sarme, subject 40B hearing, dated January 20, 2026;
e. E-mail from Carla English, subject Grading, dated January 20, 2026;
f. Online form Submittal from Laurian Marchand, subject 0 Prescott
development, dated January 20, 2026;
g. E-mail from Amanda Prophett, subject ZBA meeting Comments 1/20/2026,
dated January 20, 2026;
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h. E-mail from Jim Holland, subject Traffic meting 1/20, dated January 20,
2026;
i. E-mail from Jim Holland, subject Written public comments for 3/24/2026
Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting, dated March 23, 2026;
J. Sidewalk Condition photographs from February and March 2026, submitted
March 23, 2026;
k. Online form Submittal from Jim Holland, subject Presentation re: 0 Prescott
Street, dated March 25, 2026;
1. E-mail from Jim Holland, subject Prescott ZBA 4/8/2026 comment, dated
April 6, 2026,with Prescott St Sidewalk to Nowhere report attachment;
in. Public comment questions for April 8, 2026 Board meeting, and
n. Letter from Michael Ronayne, Concerns Regarding the Proposed Massive
Housing Development at 0 Prescott Street (the East Mill Parking Garage),
North Andover.
III. Findings of Fact
A. Regulatory Findings
1. The Board finds that the Applicant has complied with all rules and regulations
of the Town as they pertain to the application for a Comprehensive Permit,
with the exception of any waivers from said rules and regulations expressly
granted by the Board.
2. The Board finds that the Applicant demonstrated eligibility to submit an
application for a Comprehensive Permit to the Board and that the proposed
development fulfills the requirements set forth within 760 CMR 56.04 in that:
a. The Applicant has formed a single-purpose entity, East Mill Housing LLC,
which is to be the "limited dividend organization" as that term is used in
M.G.L. c. 40B, § 21 and 760 CMR 56.04(1).
b. The Project is eligible for the grant of a comprehensive permit by virtue of
the issuance of the Project Eligibility Letter from MassHousing, dated
September 16, 2025, a copy of which was provided to the Board.
c. The Applicant has "control of the site" as that term is used pursuant to
M.G.L. c. 40B, § 21 and 760 CMR 56.04 (1) in that it has a legal and/or
equitable interests in the Property as demonstrated by Quitclaim Deed to
RCG North Andover Mills LLC, dated January 22, 2007, recorded in Book
10601, Page 340 and Purchase and Sale Contract between RCG North
Andover Mills LLC and East Mill Housing LLC, dated June 11,2025.
d. The Applicant has agreed to execute a Regulatory Agreement in accordance
with Chapter 40B and the regulations and guidelines adopted thereunder by
EOHLC and the Subsidizing Agency.
3. The Board finds that the Applicant has provided evidence that there exists a
regional need for low and moderate income housing. The Board also finds that
the Town, according to the Subsidized Housing Inventory maintained by the
Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities ("EOHLC"), has not
achieved the statutory minima as set forth in M.G.L. c. 40B, §2 0 and or 760
CMR 56.03(3) in that Subsidized Housing Inventory ("SHP')-qualified
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affordable housing is 8.07% and therefore does not constitute more than 10%
percent of the total number of year-round dwelling units in the Town; nor is
1.5% of the Town's land area dedicated to SHI-qualified affordable housing;
nor will the development of 296 rental units consistent with the application
result in the commencement of construction of such housing on sites
comprising more than three-tenths of one percent of such land area. At the time
of the Applicant's comprehensive permit application, the Town of North
Andover had a Housing Production Plan pursuant to 760 CMR 56.03(4), which
has been formally approved by the EOHLC. The Town has not achieved recent
progress toward its housing unit minimum pursuant to 760 CMR 56.05(6). The
Project does not constitute a Large Project pursuant to 760 CMR 56.03(7) and
the Applicant's comprehensive permit is not a Related Application pursuant to
760 CMR 56.03(7).
B.Project Factual Findings
4. The Property is an approximately 6.13 +/- acre parcel improved by a two-story
parking garage located at 0 Prescott Street.
5. The Property is within the Industrial S (I-S) and Residential 4 (R-4) zoning
districts and the Downtown Overlay District — Subdistrict A Historic Mill
Area, all located in the Town of North Andover, Massachusetts. The Project
consists of the development of 296 rental units within two residential buildings,
adjoined by a central parking garage, each building containing four to five
stories together with parking, landscaping, infrastructure, and related
residential accessory uses.
6. The Board finds that the Project includes sufficient on-site and off-site parking,
as described in the Shared Parking Plan set forth in Exhibit B. (TBD by Board)
7. The Project will be accessed via the existing driveway entrance off of the
adjacent subdivision road extending onto High Street, which is currently, and
will continue to be, shared with other uses at the East Mill.
8. The local community voiced strong opposition to the Project. Areas of concern
included project size and density out of proportion with the neighborhood,
congested traffic and safety conditions resulting therefrom such as increased
traffic during school hours and on-street parking, sufficiency of the traffic
study, and light pollution to name a few.
9. The Board finds that the Project, as conditioned herein, is/not consistent with
local needs.
1V. Decision
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40B,the Board, after public hearings and making findings of fact including,but not
limited to the facts stated herein, hereby grants/denies a Comprehensive Permit to the Applicant for the
Project, to be constructed according to the Site Development Plans subject to the following conditions of
approval ("Conditions of Approval") and waivers granted herein, as set forth in Exhibit C.
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V. Conditions of Approval
ADMINISTRATIVE
1. This Comprehensive Permit is granted to the Applicant and its limited dividend
successors and assigns for the purpose of constructing the Project as
conditioned herein and may not be transferred or assigned to any parry prior to
substantial completion of the Project or a phase thereof without the approval of
the Subsidizing Agency and notice to the Board, as required by 760 CMR
56.05(12)(b) or any successor regulation. Transfer of a permit shall not, by
itself, constitute a substantial change pursuant to 760 CMR 56.07(4). After
substantial completion, the Comprehensive Permit approved by this Decision
shall be deemed to run with the land.
2. Except as provided in the following conditions or in the Final Plans referenced
below, the Project shall be constructed substantially in conformance with the
plans and drawings listed in Exhibit A, which for the purposes of the
Comprehensive Permit shall be considered the "Site Development Plans".
3. Pursuant to the Waiver List revised through [insert date], the Board has granted
waivers from the North Andover Zoning Bylaw and other local bylaws and
regulations as set forth in Exhibit C and to the extent not listed in Exhibit
C, the Board grants those waivers as are apparent on the Site
Development Plans. Additional or more expansive waivers of any local
bylaw or regulations must be approved by the Board pursuant to 760 CMR
56.05(11). To the extent that additional waivers are subsequently determined to
be required with respect to improvements that are otherwise shown on the Site
Development Plans, such waivers may be deemed an insubstantial change to
the Comprehensive Permit under 760 CMR 56.05(11) and can be granted
administratively by the Board.
4. The Board shall have the power, at a public meeting with notice to the
Applicant and without further public hearing to modify or amend the terms and
conditions of this Comprehensive Permit on the application of the Applicant, or
upon its own motion, to correct technical errors in this Comprehensive Permit,
or to address the Applicant's noncompliance with any terms or conditions of
this Comprehensive Permit, as insubstantial changes pursuant to 760 CMR.
56.05(11), all to the extent provided by law.
5. In the event the Applicant seeks any change in the Comprehensive Permit after
this Decision is final, any such change must be presented to the Board for
approval and for modification of this Decision. Within 20 days the Board shall
determine and notify the Applicant whether it deems the change substantial or
insubstantial,with reference to the factors set forth at 760 CMR 56.07(4). If the
change is determined to be insubstantial or if the Board fails to notify the
Applicant by the end of such 20-day period, the Comprehensive Permit shall be
deemed modified to incorporate the change. If, during a public meeting, the
Board deems a change to be substantial,then the Board shall hold a subsequent
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public hearing within 30 days of its determination and issue a Decision within
40 days of termination of the hearing, at which the Board may approve or
disapprove the requested modifications or amendments to this Decision, in
accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. c. 40B, Section 21 and 760 CMR
56.05(11). The Board will determine whether additional information and
advice is necessary from other boards and officials in the event of such
substantial change and will then determine whether the change or requested
relief is to be approved and the Decision amended accordingly. "Substantial
Change" for the purposes of this paragraph shall include, but not be limited to,
all matters defined as substantial changes in 760 CMR 56.07(4). If it deems
necessary, the Board may at the Applicant's reasonable expense retain
consultants to review and advise the Board regarding any proposed changes.
6. Unless substantial construction of the Project has commenced as further
defined by the issuance of a building permit, the Comprehensive Permit shall
expire three years from the date the Decision is filed with the Town Clerk,
excluding any time required to adjudicate or resolve any appeal and to the
extent applicable, as such period may be tolled or extended by legislation. Any
requests for an extension of time shall be made in writing no less than thirty
days prior to the expiration of the Comprehensive Permit.
7. Following the passage of the appeal period or thirty (30) days following the
final adjudication or resolution of an appeal, if any, the Applicant shall record
this Decision at the Essex North Registry of Deeds and provide proof of said
recording to the Board staff. No building permits will be issued until this
condition is satisfied.
8. The Town, by and through the Board or its designee, shall have continuing
jurisdiction over the Project to ensure compliance with the terms and
conditions of this Decision.
9. If any part of this Decision is for any reason held invalid or unenforceable,
such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect the validity of any other
portion of this Decision.
10. Copies of all required legal documents necessary to comply with terms of this
Decision shall be submitted to the Board and the North Andover Town Counsel
for review for consistency with this Decision, prior to issuance of any
certificate of occupancy.
HOUSING
11. The Project shall not be age restricted.
12. This Comprehensive Permit is issued pursuant to the project eligibility letter
issued by the Subsidizing Agency dated September 16, 2025.
13. The Project shall be limited to 296-units of condominium home ownership
units distributed across two (2) separate multi-family buildings, adjoined by a
central parking garage. Building One contains a gross square footage of
157,715 with 150 rental units with a makeup of 22 studio, 69 one bedroom, 43
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two bedroom, and 16 three- bedroom units. Building Two contains a gross
square footage of 158,738 with 146 rental units with a makeup of 25 studio, 50
one bedroom, 56 two-bedroom, and 15 three-bedroom units. Of these dwelling
units, 25% of the units (not less than 74 units) will be designated as affordable
as defined and amended from time to time by the Subsidizing Agency (the
"Affordable Units") and shall be marketed to eligible households subject to
approval by the Subsidizing Agency. Per the Subsidizing Agency's rules and
guidelines, the Affordable Units shall be evenly dispersed throughout the
Project and shall be integrated into the Project and the exterior of the units shall
not be readily distinguishable from the market rate units in the Project. Before
building permits are sought, the Applicant shall submit a plan or narrative
identifying the affordable units as designated for initial occupancy to the
Building Department. The Affordable Units shall remain affordable units in
perpetuity or for as long as the Project does not conform to the Town's Zoning
Bylaw, or the longest period allowed by law, whichever is longer, so that the
Affordable Units shall continue to serve the public purposes for which this
Comprehensive Permit was authorized under M.G.L. c. 40B, §§ 20-23. The
Affordable Units shall be, and shall remain eligible to be, included in the
Town's SHI as maintained by EOHLC.
14. The Applicant shall notify the Board and EOHLC when building permits are
issued for the Project and cooperate with the preparation of request forms to
add the Project to the Town's SHL The Applicant shall also notify the Board
and EOHLC when occupancy permits are issued for the Project and cooperate
with the preparation of request forms to add the units to the Town's SHI
permanently.
15. The Applicant shall provide to the Board for its records a copy of the final
executed documents with the Subsidizing Agency, including a regulatory
agreement in accordance with 760 CMR 56 (the "Regulatory Agreement")
prior to issuance of any certificate of occupancy for the Project.
16. The maximum number of affordable units allowed by law and the applicable
subsidy program, but no more than a total of 70% of the affordable units, shall
be reserved for present residents of North Andover, employees of the Town of
North Andover or teachers employed by the North Andover school district, of
which the Town has requested. If such preferences are approved by the
Subsidizing Agency, a lottery shall be established in a form approved by the
Subsidizing Agency to effectuate the local preference with an approved second
lottery for all other applicants. The Town shall be responsible for providing
evidence required by the Subsidizing Agency to support the local preference
requirements. The Board acknowledges that in no event shall the Applicant be
in violation of the terms of this Comprehensive Permit to the extent the
Subsidizing Agency disapproves a local preference or any aspect thereof If the
Board or its designees does not provide such information within 60 days of a
written request of the Applicant, its Lottery Agent, the Subsidizing Agency,
then this condition shall be without effect and void.
17. If at any time it appears that the Applicant is in violation of an affordable
housing restriction, then the Board may pursue such enforcement rights, as it
may have under the affordable housing restriction and/or applicable law.
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PLANS
18. The Applicant shall construct and improve the Property as substantially
described on the Site Development Plans described in Exhibit A. Prior to
issuance of any building permit for the Project,the final plans for the Project,
stamped by a registered architect, registered professional land surveyor or
registered professional engineer, as may be applicable, (the "Final Plans") shall
be submitted to the Board for review by the Board's peer review consultant to
confirm that the Final Plans are consistent with this Comprehensive Permit.
Any material differences identified by the peer review consultant shall be
reviewed and approved by the Board in accordance with 760 CMR 56.05(11).
19. Such Final Plans and As-Built Plans shall conform to the requirements of this
Decision unless expressly requested otherwise by the Building Commissioner:
a. Be submitted in the following format: one set of full sized and one set of
reduced plans (I I"by 17"), in addition to a digital copy of the final stamped
plan set and any recordable plan sheets,
b. Reflect: (i) the additional plan details and revisions called for under the
Conditions of Approval set forth herein; (ii) any additional changes required
by other local boards and agencies to comply with state and federal law and
any local regulations not waived by this Comprehensive Permit; and (iii)
any requirements of the Subsidizing Agency upon final approval of the
Project.
c. Conform to all pertinent requirements of the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) and Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAAB), to the
extent applicable. The Applicant shall provide easements for any proposed
ADA Ramp encroachment onto their property along public layouts.
20. The Applicant shall provide the Final Plans and As-Built plans in digital format
acceptable to the Town including but not limited to a format compatible with
the Town's Geographic Information System ("GIS"). The digital copy of the
final set of approved as-built plans must follow the five requirements listed
below unless waived by the Building Department:
a. All plans and specifications must be submitted on electronic media (via
cloud, flash drive, CD or DVD_ROM) using an IBM-PC or compatible file
format). Acceptable file formats include: AutoCAD *.dwg,AutoCAD *.dxf,
Arc View *.shp, or ArcGIS Geodatabase *.mdb. The files must be identical
to the printed plan and contain all information included on the written plan.
Upon project completion a digital submission of the "as-built" plan is
required prior to receiving a Certificate of Completion from the Building
Department.
b. All digital mapping data must be delivered in the Massachusetts State Plane
Coordinate system with a horizontal datum of NAD83 and vertical datum of
NGVD88.
c. Each feature type must be organized in the CAD or GIS data structure as a
separate layer using logical layer names. For example, there must be
separate CAD layers for buildings, roads,parcel lines, and wetlands. Having
all these features in a single CAD layer or GIS file will not be accepted.
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d. Documentation of the data format must be provided with a description of
the CAD layers and list of the types of features placed in each layer.
Submission of multiple files must also include a list of the files and their
purpose.
e. The data submitted must include documentation on the method used to
gather the data, the name of the person(s) responsible for preparing the data,
contact information, an estimation of the horizontal and vertical accuracy,
and the date of data capture. All media shall be free from any and all defects
and viruses and labeled as to their contents.
21. As-built Plans. Prior to the issuance of the final certificate of occupancy for the
Project, the Applicant shall provide "as-built" plans of the roads, buildings,
water, and electrical distribution systems to the Board, Fire Department,
Building Department and Department of Public Works ("DPW"); such plans
shall be submitted to the Board for review by the Board's peer review
consultant for consistency with this Decision. The As-built plans must show
the Property's drainage system locations, rims/inverts, pipe types, pipe slopes,
etc. The plans must be stamped by a Registered Professional Engineer and
include a stamped letter certifying the drainage system has been installed per
the proposed plans.
22. Prior to the issuance of the final certificate of occupancy for the Project and
upon completion of water main construction, the Applicant shall submit copies
of water main as-built plans and service connection tie cards to the DPW
Engineering Division(1 copy) and DPW Water& Sewer Division (1 copy).
23. Prior to the issuance of the final certificate of occupancy for the Project and
upon completion of sewer construction, the Applicant shall submit copies of
sewer as-built plans and service connection tie cards to the DPW Engineering
Division (1 copy)and DPW Water& Sewer Division(1 copy).
CONSTRUCTION
24. The Project infrastructure necessary for the operation of any Project building
shall be substantially completed, as determined by the Building Commissioner,
prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for that building.
25. Except where specifically waived by this Comprehensive Permit or as reflected
on the Final Plans, construction shall be in accordance with all applicable
zoning and other bylaws, rules and regulations of the Town.
26. Prior to issuance of any building permit, the Applicant shall provide evidence
of final approval from the Subsidizing Agency pursuant to 760 CMR 56.04(7)
to the Board and Building Department.
27. No construction upon the Property ("Site Activities") shall begin prior to a
preconstruction conference. The Applicant shall convene a preconstruction
conference with invitations to Town departments including, but not limited to,
the Building Department, Fire Department, DPW, and Community
Development Department at least 14 days prior to the planned commencement
of construction of the Project. The Applicant shall convene such conference by
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contacting the Building Department in writing. All relevant contractors and
subcontractors involved with site preparation/site construction activities shall
attend this meeting. This Decision with Conditions of Approval shall be
reviewed by all parties involved. At the conference, a schedule of inspections
shall be agreed upon by the Applicant, the Board, and other municipal officials
or boards subject to the Board's or its agent's final review and assent. No
utility work, earthwork or other site preparation activities shall occur until the
Applicant has obtained a notice to proceed from the Building Commissioner.
28. Prior to the issuance of any building permit, Applicant shall submit
construction plans and meet with DPW for final review and approval of all
utilities. Construction plans must show adequate detail on the size and material
of the proposed water mains and any fire service lines, including valves,
fittings, hydrants, post indicator valves, and other related appurtenances.
Applicant shall coordinate with the Water & Sewer Division to schedule an
inspector to oversee the construction, chlorination and pressure testing of all
water mains and services. Applicant is responsible for paying any fees for
inspector services.
29. Prior to the issuance of any building permit, Applicant shall submit
construction plans and meet with DPW for final review and approval of all
utilities. Construction plans must show adequate detail on the size and material
of the proposed and existing sewers, including sewer laterals, clean-outs and
manhole locations. Applicant shall coordinate with the Water & Sewer
Division to schedule an inspector to oversee the abandonment, construction,
video inspection, and testing of all sewers and appurtenances. Applicant is
responsible for paying any fees for inspector services.
30. Prior to issuance of building permits, the Applicant shall have executed and
recorded the Regulatory Agreement, in a form approved by the Subsidizing
Agency and provided evidence of same to the Board and the Building
Commissioner;
31. No Site Activities shall occur on the Property until the Applicant has:
a) Determined the volume of cuts/fill needed for the project and provided
such information to the Board signed by a Registered (Civil) Engineer of record.
The cuts/fills will be submitted and administratively reviewed as part of
submittal of Final Plans;
b) Submitted to the Board, for review by the Board's peer review
consultant, Final Engineering Drawings and Plans ("Final Plans") that conform
to the requirements of the Comprehensive Permit and incorporate the conditions
herein. Applicable sheets for the Final Plans shall be signed and sealed by the
Professional Land Surveyor, Professional (Civil) Engineer and/or Registered
Architect, as applicable. The Final Plans are to be submitted to the Board and
Inspectional Services at least 45 days prior to the anticipated commencement of
building construction or submission of an application for a building permit. If no
written response or comments have been given to the Applicant within 30 days
after the Final Plans have been delivered, the Final Plans will be deemed to have
been approved.
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c) Submitted to the Board and the Building Commissioner a Construction
Management Plan (the "CMP"), as well as a Construction Management Schedule
(the "CMS"), that generally conforms to industry standard practice and addresses
all construction-related conditions specifically set forth in this Decision.
Additional copies of the proposed CMP shall be provided to the Board, Board of
Health, and Fire Chief,
d) Provided to the DPW and Building Commissioner a final Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Plan (the "SWPPP") to address specific sedimentation,
erosion and dust control, which illustrates, at a minimum, locations of measures
such as hay socks, silt fence, sedimentation basins, and all other erosion controls
on the plans, and provides detailed construction sequencing and methods to
protect the infiltration capacity of each infiltration system; and
e) Provided procedures to the Building Commissioner that outline the
specific operation and maintenance measures for all stormwater/drainage
facilities.
32. Prior to Site Activities, the Applicant shall provide, and update as necessary,to
the Board and Building Commissioner:
a. the company affiliation, name, address and business telephone number
including 24-hour contact information of the construction manager who
shall have overall responsibility for construction activities on site;
b. a copy of a municipal lien certificate indicating that all taxes, assessments
and charges due on the Project have been paid;
c. written confirmation from the Applicant that all required federal, state and
local licenses and permits relating to the Project on the Property have been
obtained;
d. proof that street signage is in place to ensure that emergency personnel can
locate the site to provide emergency services to protect and secure the site
and construction personnel (if determined necessary by the Fire Department
and/or Police Department); and
e. at least 48 hour written notice. If activity on site ceases for longer than thirty
days, 48-hour written notice is required prior to restarting work.
33. During construction, the Applicant shall conform to all local, state and federal
laws regarding noise, odor, vibration, dust, and blocking of Town roads. The
Applicant shall at all times use all reasonable means to minimize
inconvenience to residents and businesses in the general area. Excavation,
trucking and equipment start-up and operation, and any related activity in
connection with the development of the Project shall only be undertaken
Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. All other
activities, including but not limited to commercial construction, demolition,
repair, paving or alteration activities in the construction of the Project shall
only be performed Monday through Saturday between the hours of 7:00 a.m.
and 7:00 p.m. Except for emergency work, there shall be no excavation or
exterior construction activities performed on any Sunday or state or federal
legal holiday. Deliveries shall not commence before 7:00 a.m.
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34. During construction, at the end of each workday, the Applicant shall cause all
erosion control measures to be in place and shall cause all materials and
equipment to be secured. Upon completion of all work on site, all debris and
construction materials shall be removed and disposed of in accordance with
state laws and regulations and the Board shall be notified in writing of the final
disposition of the materials.
35. The Board or its agent(s) may enter onto and view and inspect the Property
during regular business hours, with prior written notice, with consent not to be
unreasonably denied or delayed, to ensure compliance with the terms of this
Decision, subject to applicable safety requirements. After completion of
construction, the Town's inspection officials shall have authority subject to
prior written notice, with consent not to be unreasonably denied or delayed, to
enter the common areas of the property for purposes of ensuring compliance
with the conditions of this Decision and any other applicable permits,
regulations,bylaws and statutes.
36. All staging areas, including without limitation parking areas for construction
personnel, portable toilets, temporary work facilities, etc. shall be on the
Property. Thirty days following the issuance of the final certificate of
occupancy for the Project, construction staging areas shall be cleared and
completed in accordance with the Final Plans.
37. Pursuant to 780 CMR 33, the Building Commissioner may require that any
foundation, trench, structure, equipment or other hazard be secured as
necessary, in his opinion, including but not limited to installation of fencing
and/or filling of trenches.
38. To the extent that landscaping for the Project is not completed prior to the
issuance of the final certificate of occupancy, the Applicant shall provide the
Town with a satisfactory surety instrument, that shall not expire unless and
until it is satisfactorily replaced or released, and in an amount to be determined
by the Board in consultation with Town officials and other consultants, based
upon the Applicant's reasonable estimate of the costs to complete such
landscaping work. Project surety shall be held by the Town Treasurer as cash,
letter of credit, bond, or a tri-party agreement until the Treasurer is notified by
the Board to release the surety. Requests to reduce the surety may be submitted
as the landscaping work progresses and shall include the amount of requested
reduction, a list of work outstanding and a cost estimate of the same. The
amount of the surety retained shall be based on the cost estimate of the
remaining work, and the surety shall be fully released upon the completion of
the landscaping work.
39. The SWPPP shall show the layout of the erosion control devices. An erosion
control, construction management and construction sequencing plan(s)
showing the construction methods, scheduling, phasing, winter stabilization
measures, and location of necessary water pollution and erosion control
methods shall be submitted as part of the Applicant's SWPPP.
40. If construction is temporarily suspended during the growing season, all
exposed areas shall be stabilized by seeding and/or mulching within 14 days of
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suspension of construction. If construction is temporarily suspended outside the
growing season, all exposed areas shall be stabilized by mulching and tack
within 14 days of suspension of construction. Unstable slopes steeper than 3:1
shall be stabilized by netting and pinning during suspension of construction.
INFRASTRUCTURE
41. All utilities and water construction and materials shall be constructed
consistent with the Final Plans and otherwise in accordance with Town
requirements except as otherwise shown on the Final Plans.
42. All utilities (with the exception of meters, boxes and other appurtenances)
within the Project shall be installed underground.
43. Unless otherwise provided for herein, the following portions of the Project
shall be and shall remain forever private and the Town shall not have, now or
ever, any legal responsibility for the operation, maintenance, repair, or
replacement of
a. the entire on-site stormwater management system and all stormwater, lines
and equipment required to serve the Property;
b. the sidewalks, driveways, roads, utilities, drainage systems, fire protection,
gas (if applicable), electric, telephone, and cable system and all other
infrastructure shown on the Final Plans as serving the Project, including but
not limited to plowing, sanding, snow removal, trash collection, site
maintenance, and landscape maintenance; and
c. property lighting, landscaping, and screening.
44. Prior to issuance of final occupancy permits, Applicant shall grant applicable
easements to the Town for all improvements that extend into the public
roadway layout for regulatory traffic control or as otherwise applicable.
45. The Applicant shall also be responsible for conducting annual inspection,
maintenance and cleaning of all elements of the drainage system located on the
Property.
46. DPW Conditions
a. The Applicant shall provide fencing around all open stormwater
infiltration/detention areas.
b. The Applicant shall employ water-saving devices and fixtures throughout
the development,
47. Fire Department Conditions:
a. Alarm and Sprinkler Systems. The buildings shall contain a fire sprinkler
system. The Applicant shall submit final fire alarm/sprinkler plans to the
North Andover Fire Chief for review and approval. The Applicant shall
install sprinklers in compliance with M.G.L. c. 148, § 26I, which requires a
sprinkler system designated per the National Fire Prevention Association
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Code and the Massachusetts State Fire Code, as reviewed and approved by
the Fire Chief. All fire protection systems shall comply with the State
Building Code and any amendments thereto.
b. Unless otherwise approved by the Fire Chief or designee, Fire Apparatus
Access:
I. Roadways must be at least 25 feet in width or as otherwise
approved by the Fire Chief as shown on the Final Plans;
ii. Turning radius shall be no less than 60 feet for all turns;
iii. Fire lanes shall be approved by the Fire Chief or designee, are
always to be no less than 20 feet in width and remain open and shall
be marked by yellow lines, a minimum of 4 inches in width, spaced
no more than 3 feet apart and extending a minimum of six feet on
the diagonal from the curb;
iv. An overlay diagram will be required to demonstrate the ability of
the Town's largest piece of fire apparatus to enter, maneuver,
reverse direction, and negotiate at each road, intersection, turn
egress/exit and dead-end feature. Dimensions and vehicle
specifications will be provided by the North Andover Fire
Department upon request;
v. Overhead clearance of no less than 13 feet 6 inches is to be
maintained; and
vi. Hydrant spacing to be no more than 500 feet in residential sections
located on the same side of the drive aisle as the building.
c. Prior to the start of any construction, Applicant shall submit a fire safety
plan, including providing adequate site access, which shall be approved by
the Fire Chief or designee.
d. Prior to the issuance of any building permit the Applicant shall submit plans
and supporting materials and calculations for review and approval by the
North Andover Fire Department under state law. Submission materials shall
demonstrate compliance with all applicable access requirements.
e. The Fire Chief or his designee shall approve the final location of all fire
hydrants on the Property.
f. Prior to the issuance of any building permit,Applicant shall submit proof of
adequate and uninterrupted fire protection water supply and sufficiency of
flow(minimum of 20 pounds per square inch of water flow)to the Project.
g. Every building shall have affixed thereto the address of said building,which
shall be visible from the nearest street or road providing access.
h. Knox boxes shall be required, and their location shall be determined by the
Fire Department.
I. No combustible mulch shall be used within eighteen inches of combustible
portions of the exterior of buildings.
J. The storage of any combustible and/or flammable fluids shall be obtained
through the Fire Department.
k. Prior to the issuance of the final occupancy certificate for this Project,
Applicant shall submit an updated Swept Path Analysis reflecting post-
construction conditions and designed for the largest piece of Fire
Department apparatus,to the Fire Chief or designee for review and approval
as to the location and adequacy of fire access.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
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48. The Applicant shall comply with the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection ("DEP") Stormwater Regulations and standards
evidenced by the following:
a. The specifications shown on the Final Plans; and
b. Full Stormwater Management Report, prepared by Civil Design Group,
LLC, dated October 2025, revised February 2026.
49. Snow shall only be stored in the areas designated on plans and shall not be
placed within or above the stormwater management systems.
50. Stormwater Management Conditions:
a. Prior to starting any Site Activities, the SWPPP shall be provided to the
contractors during construction and a copy must be kept on site during
construction.
b. The Applicant shall comply with the SWPPP during construction and in
perpetuity.
c. The use of silt sacks within the proposed catch basins shall be used during
construction.
d. The post development impervious areas shall be consistent with the
impervious areas shown on the design plans which were used to analyze and
size the stormwater management system.
e. The as-built conditions shall match the drainage areas shown on the Final
Plans.
f. Any imported fill shall have the same drainage characteristics as the
existing site soils for which the stormwater analysis and design are based.
51. Stormwater Management Maintenance. The SWPPP and the Stormwater
Operation and Maintenance ("O&M") Plan shall be consistent with the Full
Stormwater Management Report, prepared by Civil Design Group, LLC, dated
October 2025, revised February 2026. In the event that the Applicant or its
successor fails to maintain the stormwater management system located on the
Property in accordance with such guidelines for operation and maintenance,
after notice to the Applicant or successor and the failure to reasonably cure, the
Town may perform necessary maintenance or repairs and the Applicant or
successor hereby authorizes the Town to enter the Property for this purpose. In
such event,the Applicant or successor shall reimburse the Town for any and all
expense associated therewith; in the event of nonpayment, the Town may place
a lien on the Property and any improvement thereupon. All costs incurred by
the Town in connection with its performance of such required maintenance on
the Property shall be reimbursed by the Applicant or its successor to the Town
within thirty (30) days of receipt of the Town's invoice for such costs, which
shall constitute a municipal charge or fee, pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40, §§ 57 and
58.
52. The Applicant shall submit to the Board the O&M plan which shall include the
name of the stormwater management system owners, schedule of maintenance
for off-site forebay and infiltration basin, a plan showing location of all
stormwater best management practices, description and delineation of public
safety features, or an estimated operations and maintenance budget, prior to
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issuance of a building permit. If Applicant contracts with a property manager,
the O&M plan shall be available on-site and incorporated into any agreement
as to the property manager's duties.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
53. No tree stumps or other demolition and construction debris shall be buried on
the Property. All tree stumps shall either be ground or removed from the
Property.No burning is allowed on the Property.
54. Applicant shall maximize the use of native, drought-resistant plantings on Site
and shall regularly replace any plantings that do not survive for a period of
eighteen(18)months upon installation.
55. The Project shall be served by municipal water, at the Applicant's sole
expense, in accordance with the currently applicable DPW requirements.
56. Property Management documents that govern the Project shall specify that
parking for over-sized vehicles, recreational vehicles, trailers, boats and other
similar non-standard vehicles shall be prohibited.
57. All outdoor lighting, including surface mounted building lighting and porch
lighting, shall be installed and maintained as provided for in the Final Plans, in
compliance the Town's Zoning Bylaw, §195-17.38.
58. Except where specifically waived by this Comprehensive Permit as listed in the
attached Exhibit C, construction shall be in accordance with all applicable
zoning and other bylaws, rules and regulations of the Town in effect on the
date of this Decision. This Comprehensive Permit serves as the permit
necessary to construct the Project under all local zoning and general bylaws,
rules and regulations, unless otherwise provided herein. In the submission for
building permits to construct the Project, the Applicant shall include an
application, along with all necessary supporting materials, that would
ordinarily be required for a building permit, which shall be reviewed by the
Building Commissioner for consistency with this Decision.
59. The Applicant's site contractor shall consult with the Planning Department on
developing a construction transportation plan that takes into consideration truck
traffic and school drop-off and pick-up times. Appropriate signage on the Site
shall designate the travel path and hours.
PARKING
60. Applicant will provide sufficient on-site and off-site parking, as described in
the Shared Parking Plan set forth in Exhibit B. (TBD by Board)
61. Parking shall include spaces for electric vehicles or are electric vehicle-
ready Any Electric Vehicle charging stations shall be restricted to residential
use only.
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TRAFFIC/SITE IMPROVEMENTS
62. The proposed site entrance shall be designed to accommodate the North
Andover Fire Department's largest piece of fire apparatus.
63. Signs and pavement markings shall comply with the Manual on Uniform
Traffic Control Devises ("MUTCD") and shall be installed on the approaches
to High and Prescott Streets, including STOP signs and STOP line pavement
markings.
64. To maintain sight line triangles, plantings and structures shall be maintained at
a height of 2 feet or less within the sight lines in the vicinity of the site
driveways to provide unobstructed sight lines.
65. Applicant will provide not less than covered bicycle parking spots in the
building garage to encourage the use of bicycles.
66. Applicant shall develop and offer a Transportation Demand Management
program to encourage residents to use alternative modes of travel, to promote
use of public transportation, and to educate residents about electric vehicle
charging stations,pedestrian infrastructure, and secure bike parking.
VI. RECORD OF VOTE
On the Board voted_in favor and _opposed to approve/deny the Comprehensive Permit
with Conditions contained herein and Waivers requested and listed in the attached Exhibit C, subject to
the conditions set forth herein.
The Board has complied with all statutory requirements for the issuance of this Comprehensive Permit. A
copy of this Decision will be filed with the Town Clerk and mailed to all parties, persons or boards as
required by M.G.L. c. 40B.
Any person aggrieved by this Decision may appeal to a court of competent jurisdiction or the Housing
Appeals Committee, as applicable, within 20 days as provided by M.G.L. c. 40A, § 17 or M.G.L. c. 40B,
§20 et seq.
Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of North Andover:
Michael T. Lis, Chairman
Laura Craig-Comin,Vice Chair
Frank J. Killilea, Clerk
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Alexandria A. Jacobs, Member
James A. Testa, Member
We hereby certify that a copy of this decision was filed with the Town Clerk on:
This decision shall not take effect until a copy of this decision certified by the Town has been recorded in
the Essex North Registry of Deeds, and a certified copy indicating such Registry recording has been filed
with the Board.
Copy to Applicant via Certified Mail on:
Notice of Decision mailed to interested parties on:
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Exhibit A
SITE DEVELOPMENT PLANS
• Full set of Site Development Plans detailed in Exhibit A.
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Exhibit B
SHARED PARKING PLAN
• Full set of Shared Parking Plans detailed in Exhibit B.
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Exhibit C
WAIVERS
• Full list of Applicant's waiver requests and the Board's response detailed in Exhibit C.
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