Newbury Court proposes zoning changes to address neighborhood concerns in Concord

The Select Board of Concord convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss ongoing developments and community concerns regarding the proposed project by Deaconess. The meeting focused on the adjustments made to the project in response to feedback from neighbors and abutters, particularly those residing near Old Marlborough Road.

The discussion began with representatives from Deaconess outlining significant changes to their proposal. They emphasized their commitment to maintaining a residential character in the neighborhood by implementing a 40-foot landscape buffer and limiting building heights to 35 feet. Additionally, they introduced a new regulation requiring that any main building's setback from Old Marlborough Road must be twice its height, thereby enhancing the visual buffer for adjacent properties.

Mark Bobrowski, a representative from Deaconess, confirmed that these changes were made in direct response to community input. He noted that the planning board would have the authority to impose landscaping conditions to further mitigate visual impacts, aligning with existing bylaws.

The Select Board clarified that the purpose of the meeting was not to negotiate a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) but to gather insights on how Deaconess has addressed the concerns of local residents. It was revealed that five key issues raised by abutters had been incorporated into the revised zoning bylaw, eliminating the need for them to be included in the MOA.

Concerns regarding tax commitments were also addressed. Deaconess representatives assured the board that they would continue to pay taxes on the new development, maintaining their historical pattern of tax contributions. This assurance was crucial for the board, which is focused on ensuring that the project would not adversely affect town revenues.

The meeting also touched on the broader context of zoning practices in Concord. Some board members expressed concerns about the appropriateness of a citizen's petition for zoning changes, suggesting that traditional processes involving the planning board should be prioritized. Deaconess representatives defended their approach, citing the urgency of their situation and the competitive nature of their bid for the property.

Finally, discussions shifted to the topic of affordable housing in Concord. Deaconess representatives highlighted their commitment to serving a diverse community, including those with lower incomes. They noted that their pricing structure aims to provide access to a broader market, countering the perception that their services are exclusively for affluent residents.

In conclusion, the Select Board meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between Deaconess and the Concord community, with a focus on addressing concerns while navigating the complexities of development and zoning regulations. The board plans to continue discussions and finalize the MOA in the coming weeks, aiming to balance community needs with development goals.