The Quincy Zoning Board of Appeals convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss a proposal concerning the property at 66 Middlesex Street. The meeting featured architect Jim Chen, who presented modifications to the original design, aiming to address concerns regarding the building's height and compliance with zoning regulations.

Chen explained that the property is situated on a 3,200 square foot lot at the intersection of Bayside Road and Middlesex Street. The existing structure is classified as nonconforming, failing to meet current setback standards. The proposal includes extending the back of the house by 7.4 feet while maintaining a side setback of 13 feet. Initially, a full-width dormer was proposed for the third story, but after reviewing the design, Chen indicated a willingness to reduce the dormer size or potentially eliminate it altogether to keep the building height within acceptable limits.

The proposed layout includes one bedroom on the lower floor, two bedrooms and two bathrooms on the second floor, and a playroom on the third floor. The total number of bathrooms would be four and a half, with a half bath located in the common area of the first floor.

Ward 6 Councilor Margie Fitzpatrick expressed concerns about the project, particularly regarding communication with her office. She noted that she had only received an email about the proposal in February and had not been contacted by phone, which she deemed essential for addressing community concerns early in the process. Fitzpatrick emphasized the importance of protecting the residential character of the neighborhood and raised issues related to environmental regulations, specifically referencing the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and the City of Quincy’s Conservation Commission.

Fitzpatrick requested that the Zoning Board delay any decisions on the project until the necessary environmental reviews and approvals from the Conservation Commission and DEP are obtained. She highlighted the potential for required changes to the proposal based on their findings.

The meeting concluded with a clear call for further review and consideration of the environmental implications of the proposed development, ensuring that community interests and regulatory compliance are prioritized in the decision-making process.