The Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals convened on July 17, 2025, to discuss several significant matters, including a special permit request for a residential deck and a proposal for converting a convent into apartment units.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding a special permit for a deck construction. The board addressed concerns about the homeowner's responsibility for permitting and oversight. It was noted that a building permit must be visibly posted, and the homeowner was urged to comply with all necessary regulations. The board clarified that the request was for a special permit, not a variance, and emphasized that the primary consideration was whether the new deck would be more detrimental to the neighborhood than the existing structure.

After deliberation, the board voted unanimously to grant the special permit, contingent upon the homeowner obtaining an after-the-fact building permit and ensuring all required inspections were completed. The board also suggested modifications to the deck's stairway design to improve compliance with setback regulations.

In a separate agenda item, the board reviewed a proposal from Rockview LLC to convert an existing convent and carriage house into 15 residential apartment units. This request had previously faced significant opposition from the community, prompting the applicant to revise their plans. The new design relocated parking to address neighborhood concerns, particularly from residents on Gatehouse Drive. The attorney representing Rockview LLC expressed a commitment to working with the community to alleviate objections.

The board's discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges of balancing development with community interests, as they navigated the complexities of zoning regulations and public sentiment. The next steps for both proposals will involve further compliance with local building codes and continued engagement with the community.