Neighbors oppose backyard pergola construction at public zoning hearing

In the dimly lit chamber of Revere City Hall, the Zoning Board of Appeals convened on March 26, 2025, to address a contentious issue that has stirred the local community. The air was thick with anticipation as residents gathered to voice their opinions on a proposed construction project that has sparked both support and opposition among neighbors.

At the heart of the discussion was a resident's plan to build a structure that some neighbors argue would infringe upon their property rights and quality of life. One vocal opponent, Barbara Ann Popolo, who lives adjacent to the proposed site, expressed her concerns passionately. She detailed how the new construction would block sunlight from her garden, which has been a cherished part of her home for 77 years. Popolo's testimony painted a vivid picture of her struggles, highlighting the impact of the proposed project on her living conditions, including noise disturbances from late-night gatherings at the neighboring property.

Popolo's account was not just a personal grievance; it resonated with broader themes of community and the delicate balance between individual property rights and neighborhood harmony. She emphasized the importance of maintaining open spaces and sunlight, urging the board to consider the long-term implications of the construction on her and her cousin's properties.

The meeting also revealed a lack of communication between the parties involved. The resident proposing the construction had not secured a letter of support from a key neighbor, which was a requirement from the previous meeting. This absence raised questions about the project's viability and the willingness of the community to embrace it.

As the board members listened intently, they were tasked with weighing the merits of the proposal against the heartfelt objections from residents like Popolo. The public hearing format allowed for a transparent dialogue, inviting other community members to share their views, though none stepped forward to support the project at that moment.

The outcome of this meeting could set a precedent for future zoning decisions in Revere, reflecting the ongoing struggle between development and the preservation of community values. As the evening drew to a close, the board's decision loomed large, promising to shape the neighborhood's landscape and the lives of its residents for years to come.