Planning Board continues 255 Merriam Street ARC hearing to March 18

WESTON — March 11, 2020 — Weston Planning Board advances 255 Merriam Street ARC bylaw but defers vote amid coronavirus disruption. The board continued its joint hearing on the proposed Active Adult Residential Cluster zoning amendment and concept plan for an eight-unit senior development to March 18, with member absences and a possible April 6 special town meeting cancellation looming. Board consultant Al Adelot said 1.5-mile separation and 500-foot transit requirements effectively confine current ARC eligibility to the Merriam Street site. Developer Jeff Engler asked the board to raise maximum residential gross floor area from 25 to 26 percent and building coverage from 15 to as much as 20 percent; members signaled willingness on the smaller bump only. The board separately approved replacement exterior lighting at Stonegate at Weston condominiums on Jericho Road — approximately 56 six-foot dark-sky-compliant post lanterns at one foot-candle — with a five-year condition that all doorway lanterns be upgraded. Resident Justine Richards called it "absurd" the association had to litigate "basic illumination."