NEWNC Agenda for June 2012 Monthly Meeting

1.    Welcome – NEWNC President

2.    Call to order & Roll Call – NEWNC President

3.    Meeting Protocol – NEWNC Vice President

4.    Report from the Office of Neighborhood Services – Nicole Leo   

5.    Report from the offices of local elected officials

6.    Committee reports:

a. Resident Parking/Traffic Committee – Ryan Kenny

b. Public Safety Committee – David Marx

c. Greenway Committee –

7.  216 Hanover Street, Improv Asylum:  Norm Laviolette has applied to the Licensing Board to add cordials to the existing Malt and Wine License.

8.   133 Salem Street, formerly Sheldon’s:  David Crocini has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the legal occupancy of the building from 4 residential units and a retail store to 3 residential units and a fitness center.  The renovation includes conversion of the basement. 

9.   7 Baldwin Place:  Dr. Anthony V. Bova has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the legal occupancy of the building from 5 residential apartments to 6 residential apartments, adding a one story addition to the existing building, not to exceed 55 feet in height.  

10.  350-352 Hanover Street, formerly Hanover News:  Jennifer Pittore has applied to the Licensing Board for a Wine and Malt License at this location. 

11.   Announcements/Open Discussion/Comments  

2012 NEWNC Candidates

The following candidates have met the requirements set by the North End Waterfront Neighborhood Council to appear on the ballot for our 2012 Election.  They are running to fill 6, 2 year spots on the council.  

Allan Danley

Toni Gilardi

Ryan Kenny

John Pregman

Marie Simboli

Anne Devlin Tagliaferro

Please join us on May 14th at 7:00PM at the Nazzaro Center for Candidates night as part of our May Monthly Meeting.  Each of the qualified candidates will be permitted to address the meeting to introduce themselves and explain their reasons for running.

The election will be held May 19th from 10 AM - 2 PM.  Only residents of the North End and Waterfront will be permited to vote.  Please bring a proof of residency to the polls.  

NEWNC Agenda for May 2012 Monthly Meeting

Monday, May 14, 2012, 7:00PM
Nazzaro Center, 30 N. Bennet St.

1.    Welcome – Donna Freni, President

2.    Call to order & Roll Call – Donna Freni, President

3.    Meeting Protocol – Marie Simboli, Vice President

4.    Report from the Office of Neighborhood Services – Nicole Leo   

5.    Report from the offices of local elected officials

6.    Committee reports:

            a. Resident Parking/Traffic Committee – Ryan Kenny

            b. Public Safety Committee – David Marx

c. Greenway Committee – Donna Freni

7.  Report from Upper Ground Enterprises regarding filming at La Galleria 33 on Salem Street May 16^th – May 22^nd

8.  NEWNC Candidate Introductions

9.  78-80 Salem Street, Trattoria Pulcinella:  Giovanni Oliva has applied to the Licensing Board for the sale and transfer of the Wine and Malt License from Cibo Con Amore (Marissa Iocco) to a new restaurant, Trattoria Pulcinella.

10.  371-373 Hanover Street, formerly Casa di Stile:  Nick Varano has applied to the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the use of the first floor from a retail clothing store to a restaurant with take-out service. 

11. 350-352 Hanover Street, formerly Hanover News:  Jennifer Pittore has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the use of the first floor from a retail store to a restaurant with take-out service.  She has also applied to the Licensing Board for a Wine and Malt License at this location.

12. 266 Hanover Street, IL Panino Express:  Frank DePasquale has applied to the Licensing Board for a new Wine and Malt License at this location.

13.  Announcements/Open Discussion/Comments  

Letter from Upper Ground Enterprises regarding Salem Street Filming

Upper Ground Enterprises

April 30, 2012

Dear Neighbors,

This letter is to notify you that from May 16th – May 22nd Upper Ground Enterprises (UGE) is planning to film at La Galleria 33 (125 Salem Street Boston, MA 02113). The filming activity is scheduled to take place from approximately 10AM to 11PM each day. UGE has been coordinating this project with the Boston Film office.

In order to facilitate filming, we will need to provide parking for our production vehicles in front of 125, 133 and 135 Salem Street. Please see the below photo. 2 spaces will be reserved from May 16th – May 22nd.

We will also need 80 ft of parking (8 spaces) on Cooper Street from May 18th – May 22nd. Please see the below photo.

We are aware of the potential inconvenience our activity may cause and ask for your cooperation in advance. We will do everything possible to minimize the impact of our activities on your neighborhood and we intend to fully comply with this request. In fact, there will always be a UGE representative available on-site once filming begins to address any unforeseen issues that may arise. A limited number of parking vouchers will be issued daily to residents with resident parking passes. Please stop by set to obtain a daily parking pass. If you have any questions or particular concerns that you would like to discuss, please call the production office.

Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.

Upper Ground Enterprises Phone: 323.556.3888 

NEWNC Minutes for April 2012 Monthly Meeting

1.    Welcome – Donna Freni, President, welcomed everyone to the NEWNC meeting.

2.    Call to order & Roll Call – Donna Freni, President, called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.

Council members present: Donna Freni, President, Marie Simboli, Vice President, Bill Lane, Secretary, David Marx, Jonathan Sproul, Philip Frattaroli, Stephen Passacantilli, and Anne Devlin Tagliaferro.  Absent:  Jorge Mendoza, Ryan Kenny, and Giancarlo Tiberi.

3.    Meeting Protocol – Marie Simboli, Vice President, read the meeting protocol.

4.    Report from the Office of Neighborhood Services – Nicole Leo announced that the annual Boston Shines Day will be held on April 28, 2012.  Nicole asked that people sign up online. Stephanie Hogue mentioned that the cleanup would prepare the neighborhood for a celebration honoring Cyrus Dallin, the sculptor of the Paul Revere Statue in the Prado.

5.    Report from the offices of local elected officials

Stephen Passacantilli, from Sal LaMattina’s office reported the following:

On Wednesday, April 11^th, the Boston Transportation Department will conduct a walk-through in the neighborhood to assess the number of parking spaces that can be identified for additional resident sticker parking, and will target a reduction of 2-hour parking limits on select streets.

At the April Public Safety Committee meeting, the possible creation of a formal neighborhood crime watch was discussed.  Continue to check NorthEndWaterfront.com for updates.

On Thursday through Saturday nights, additional officers will patrol the North End from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. to increase police visibility.

A problem property task force, which meets monthly to identify properties with loud parties, illegal roof decks, garbage problems, should be notified of any issues by calling City Councilor Sal LaMattina’s office. City Hall identifies habitual problem properties and notifies landlords of the problem.

6.    Committee reports:

            a. Resident Parking/Traffic Committee – Ryan Kenny was not present

            b. Public Safety Committee – David Marx reported the following:

 Newly assigned Boston Police District A-1 Captain Thomas Lee met with the neighborhood for the first time since he replaced Bernie O’Rourke. Residents were upset about a raucous and disruptive St. Patrick’s Day in the North End. Police said the North End crime rate is low compared to other neighborhoods. Police continue to investigate a prior sexual assault. On March 30th, a single woman was attacked at 11:45 p.m. as she walked alone on Prince Street. The suspect is 5′ 6″-5’8″, in his late 20s to early 30s, medium build, short dark hair and a goatee. Police patrols have been increased in the North End.

c. Greenway Committee – Donna Freni announced that Rep. Aaron Michlewitz was in attendance and would give an update on his Greenway legislation.

Rep. Michlewitz stated that he filed a bill last year aimed at a better system for the Greenway parks. The legislature has until the end of the session, July 31st, to act. They would like to have a concrete reform by June 30th, the end of the fiscal year. He doesn’t want to do away with public/private partnerships, nor current funding, but wants to change the system that exists, potentially by having open meetings, restructuring the board, and other measures.

Rep. Michlewitz introduced his new legislative aide, Marie Puopolo.

Donna Freni, Rep. Michlewitz’s appointee to the Greenway Leadership Council, applauded Rep. Michlewitz for starting the dialog and getting a discussion going on avenues to improve the funding and management of the Greenway.

Phil Orlandella, from the Regional Review, said that the Governor’s recently filed transportation bill moved to add two ex-officio members to the Greenway Conservancy Board, as well as abide by open meeting and public records law.

d. Announcements:

Donna Freni announced that there will be a joint community meeting on Wednesday, April 18th, 7 p.m., at the Nazzaro Center, featuring engineering students from Northeastern University who will make a presentation on their ideas and recommendations for improving traffic and pedestrian flow on and in the vicinity of Hanover Street. She encouraged all residents to attend.

Bill Lane discussed the upcoming NEWNC election which will be held on Saturday, May 19^th at the Nazzaro Center. He invited all who are interested in running for the Council to pick up nomination papers at the Nazzaro Center beginning April 20^th.  Nomination papers must be competed and returned to the Nazzaro Center by 5 p.m. on Friday, May4th.

Phil Frattaroli announced that the Taste of the North End will be held on Friday, May 4^th.  He encouraged purchasing tickets now as the current price is $79.00 and will increase to $99.00.  For additional information, go to TasteOfTheNorthEnd.org.

7.  91 Prince Street: James Barry has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the allowed use/legal occupancy of the first floor from a store to a residential apartment.  The apartment is an existing condition and no changes will be made; it will remain as previously constructed. 

Attorney Dan Toscano represented the applicant, James Barry, owner of the property. The property is managed by resident Olivia Scimeca. No additional work will be done; the application seeks to bring the use into compliance with current conditions. Mr. Toscano notified abutters and has received no opposition. May 8th is the hearing date at ZBA. The building is under agreement.

Several people in attendance supported the application; there was no opposition. Stephen Passacantilli moved to support the application; Anne Devlin Tagliaferro seconded. Approved 7-0.

8.  236 Hanover Street, formerly the “Filthy Rich” store: Matteo Gallo has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the allowed use of the first floor from commercial space to a coffee shop (conditional use).  Coffee shop owners, Andre Sadowski and Hugh Geiger, operate the “Thinking Cup” at 165 Tremont Street.

Hugh Gieger and Andre Sadowski made a presentation for their plans for a coffee shop at this location.  They have operated a coffee shop at 165 Tremont Street since 2010. There will be baking with electric/convection ovens for fresh pastries, muffins and scones. No venting will be required.  Their current location serves breakfast sandwiches.  No alcohol will be offered.

Hours will be 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday-Wednesday and 7 a.m.-midnight Thursday-Saturday. Their existing coffee shop creates direct relationships with farmers and roasters, getting coffee freshly roasted. There will be no wi-fi.  They will have light background music from ceiling speakers. No TVs. Seating will be about 60 seats, including bar stools and couches. Trash pick-up will be daily. Signage will be an awning. No neon signage.  No table service. Clientele is expected to be residents and tourists.  Applicants sent out letters to abutters on March 21^st and no opposition has been received.

Adrian Federico of Caffe Paradiso, stated that the new place would have a similar menu to hers. She asked about the lease length on Tremont St., which is 15 years.

Store area will be 1,700 sq. ft. at street level, with 1,000 sq. ft. on the lower level, including a kitchen in the basement.

Council President, Donna Freni, and other Council members expressed concern that the amended application to include take-out service had not been submitted to NEWNC. Marie Simboli expressed concern with the lack of a detailed floor plan and the hours of operation.  Stephen Passacantilli moved to support the change of use to a coffee shop on the condition that the applicants provide Donna Freni, with the amended application.  Anne Devlin Tagliaferro seconded. Approved 7-0.

9. 94 Endicott Street:  Salvatore Onessimo has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the allowed use of the first floor from a store to a Window Service Take-out Ice Cream.

Mr. Onessimo opened and then quickly closed when he was notified that he should not be operating. Neighborhood notification was done. A CV license is not required because it is take-out service only. Richardson’s ice cream (32 flavors) will be served. Mr. Onessimo wants to serve the elderly community with ice cream, which is not available in the North End. Dipped fruit will also be served and toppings will be home-made. No one will be allowed into the space; window service only. Trash pick-up will be daily. Signage is already up.  The hours of operation will be 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., 7 days a week.  No ZBA date has been set yet.

A number of residents attended to support the application.  Anne Devlin Tagliaferro moved to support the application; Stephen Passacantilli seconded. Approved 7-0.

10.  Announcements/Open Discussion/Comments.   

Navy yard will be holding a large celebration and there is still the issue of public restrooms in the neighborhood. Graffiti is closed and Nick Varano has been frank about needing a beer and wine license to help improve his business. Stephanie Hogue suggested talking with Citizens Bank about using that space to attract tourists as they enter the neighborhood.  Rep. Aaron Michlewitz said he would be happy to inquire about the Citizens idea, but the question is always, “Who will pay for it?” If businesses can come together to pay for it, it could be workable.

Meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

NEWNC Election Announcement

The North End/Waterfront Neighborhood Council (NEWNC) is holding their annual election on Saturday, May 19, 2012, and all North End/Waterfront residents age 18 and older are invited to seek election to one of the six seats to be filled.
 
NEWNC is comprised of twelve North End/Waterfront residents who serve as an advisory board to the City of Boston in municipal affairs.  Council members are elected to a two year term and terms are staggered so that six seats are filled each year.

NEWNC was created in 1984 by the Mayor’s office in an effort to increase communication between the neighborhoods and city agencies.  “The Council advises the City on issues affecting the quality of life in the North End/Waterfront neighborhood including zoning, licensing, land use, development, resident parking and public safety” explained Council President, Donna Freni.  “The Council plays a vital role in the neighborhood and it’s a rewarding experience to serve the community as a Council Member” Freni stated.

The Council meets on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Nazzaro Center,  30 North Bennet Street. 

This year the six seats to be filled are currently held by Donna Freni, President, Marie Simboli, Vice President, Ryan Kenny, Anne Devlin Tagliaferro and Giancarlo Tiberi, as well as the seat once held by the late Mario Alfano.

Nomination forms will be available on Friday, April 20^th at 9 a.m. and may be picked up at the reception desk of the Nazzaro Center.  Candidates are required to collect 25 signatures of North End/Waterfront residents age 18 or older in order to qualify for the ballot.  Nomination papers must be completed and returned to the Nazzaro Center by

5 p.m. on Friday, May 4^th.  The election will be held at the Nazzaro Center on Saturday, May 19^th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Qualified candidates will be invited to introduce themselves to the neighborhood at  Candidate's Night, which will be held on Monday, May 14th, during NEWNC's May

monthly meeting.

For additional information about NEWNC, please visit www.NEWNCBoston.org.

NEWNC Agenda for April 2012 Monthly Meeting

Monday, April 9, 2012, 7:00PM
Nazzaro Center, 30 N. Bennet St.

1.    Welcome – Donna Freni, President

2.    Call to order & Roll Call – Donna Freni, President

3.    Meeting Protocol – Marie Simboli, Vice President

4.    Report from the Office of Neighborhood Services – Nicole Leo   

5.    Report from the offices of local elected officials

6.    Committee reports:

            a. Resident Parking/Traffic Committee – Ryan Kenny

            b. Public Safety Committee – David Marx

c. Greenway Committee – Donna Freni

7.  91 Prince Street:  James Barry has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the allowed use/legal occupancy of the first floor from a store to a residential apartment.  The apartment is an existing condition and no changes will be made; it will remain as previously constructed. 

8.  236 Hanover Street, formerly the “Filthy Rich” store:    Matteo Gallo has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the allowed use of the first floor from commercial space to a coffee shop (conditional use).  Coffee shop owners, Andre Sadowski and Hugh Geiger, operate the “Thinking Cup” at 165 Tremont Street.

9.  78-80 Salem Street:  Giovanni Oliva has applied to the City of Boston Licensing Board for the sale and transfer of the C.V. 7-day Malt and Wine License from Cibo Con Amore (Marissa Iocco) to a new restaurant, Trattoria Pulcinella.

10. 94 Endicott Street:  Salvatore Onessimo has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to change the allowed use of the first floor from a store to a Window Service Take-out Ice Cream.

11.  Announcements/Open Discussion/Comments.   

NEWNC Minutes for March 2012 Monthly Meeting

Monday, March 13, 2012, 7:00 p.m.
Nazzaro Center, 30 N. Bennet St

1.    Welcome:  Donna Freni, President, welcomed everyone to the NEWNC meeting.

2.    Call to order & Roll Call:  Donna Freni, President, called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. All council members were present.

3.    Meeting Protocol:  Bill Lane, Secretary, read the meeting protocol.

4.    Report from the Office of Neighborhood Services:  Nicole Leo was not present; therefore, no report.

Donna Freni announced that the North End Friends of St. Francis House will be holding its Annual Flea Market and Bake Sale to raise money for the St. Francis Homeless Shelter on Friday, March 16^th from 9am to 6pm and again on Saturday, March 17^th from 9am to 1pm at the Nazzaro Center. Donations can be made at the Nazzaro Center until Thursday night, March 15th. If you want to donate a baked good, you can drop it off on Thursday, March 15th from 5pm to 8pm or anytime on Friday, March 16th.

President Freni also announced that on Wednesday, April 18^th at 7pm, NEWNC and NEWRA will host a joint community meeting at the Nazzaro Center.  At this meeting, the Capstone team, comprised of engineering students from Northeastern University, will present to the neighborhood their ideas and concepts for improvements to traffic and pedestrian flow on Hanover Street and other North End streets.

5.    Report from the offices of local elected officials:

Blake Webber, from the office of Rep. Aaron Michlewitz, reported on the hearing held today, March 12^th, regarding House Bill 1803, legislation sponsored by Rep. Michlewitz, pertaining to the Rose Kennedy Greenway. A number of neighborhood residents attended the hearing and testified. Comments about HB 1803 are still being accepted.  Rep. Michlewitz’s office can be reached at (617) 722-2400.

6.    Committee reports:

a. Resident Parking/Traffic Committee:  Ryan Kenny. No report

b. Public Safety Committee:  David Marx reported that Bernie O’Rourke has been promoted to Deputy Superintendent.  A celebration event will be held on Wednesday,   March 21st, at 5p.m., at Ned Devines at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. His replacement, Capt. Thomas Lee, will attend the next Public Safety Committee meeting on April 5^th at 6:30p.m.

In the previous 30 days, police reported the following crimes: 1 sexual assault, 1 robbery, 1 aggravated assault, 2 break-ins, 2 car thefts, 6 larcenies, not including car break-ins, 4 larcenies from motor vehicles, and 2 towed vehicles.

A sexual assault, characterized as an “indecent touching” by a handyman, occurred on Feb. 9th near Hanover St.

Bob’s Groceries, 160 Endicott St., was robbed at knifepoint on Feb. 24th by a man about age 30. He held up a female employee and made away with $600 from the cash drawer and Mass. lottery receipts. Two break-ins occurred in the last 30 days at 16 Battery St. on February 3rd and 327 Hanover St. on February 17th. Both were reported to have occurred in the early morning hours. Nothing was reported taken at the Battery St. address despite signs of a break-in. The Hanover St. incident involved an old and new boyfriend situation. A suspect was arrested in that case.

Items stolen from cars include pocketbooks, laptops and GPS units. These items are routinely targeted by thieves, and police continue to remind residents not to leave valuables in their cars.

Three loud parties were reported to 911 in the last month, including at 27 Sheafe St., 18 Parmenter St. and 19 Cooper St.

c. Bylaws Committee:  Ryan Kenny reported that NEWNC’s bylaws have been revised and have been posted at NEWNC’s website, NEWNCboston.org.

Ryan Kenny announced that NEWNC elections will take place on Saturday, May 19th. Six seats on the Council are open, including an unopposed seat formerly held by the late Mario Alfano. Candidates may pick up their nomination papers on April 20th at the Nazzaro Center. Each candidate must collect at least 25 signatures of neighborhood residents to qualify for placement on the ballot. Nomination papers must be completed and returned to the Nazzaro Center by May 4th at 5pm. The election will be held on Saturday, May 19^th at the Nazzaro Center.

Each candidate who collects the required signatures will be invited to introduce themselves to the community at Candidate’s Night, during the regularly scheduled NEWNC May meeting, on Monday, May 14th.

d. Greenway Committee:  Donna Freni, who serves on the Greenway Leadership Council, reported that she attended a State Transportation Committee Hearing on the Greenway legislation sponsored by Aaron Michlewitz, HB 1803. Written and oral testimony was presented.  Donna thanked Matt Conti for filming the hearing. The video is available at NorthEndWaterfront.com. Deadline for the bill to be reported out of committee is the end of May, and there will most likely be a resolution on the bill by the end of July. 

7.  100 Fulton Street, Fulton Court Condominiums:  Thomas Hawke has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to convert Unit 1A Fulton Court from commercial use to residential use.

Attorney Bill Ferullo represented the owners of the property. The ground floor houses a business consulting/appraisal business. The owner plans to turn that space into a residential unit. The violations in converting to residential include insufficient parking space and open space. There are 57 parking spaces for 67 units, which is lower than the one-space-per-unit requirement. Also, there is no ability to create the 6,700 sq. ft. of open space required by law.

The owners will occupy the unit for the near term. The trustees of the condo association have approved the change, and the approval of the other unit owners is being sought. The ZBA hearing is scheduled for March 27th.

Anne Devlin Tagliaferro moved to support; Giancarlo Tiberi seconded. Application was supported in a vote of 9-0.

8.  112 Fulton Street:  Andrew McDonald has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning relief to allow enclosure of an existing deck/balcony to increase the living space.

The McDonalds are proposing to enclose a lower deck in their duplex to gain about 125 sq. ft. of usable space in the unit. The use will allow for another bedroom. The violations include floor-area ratio and extension of a non-conforming use. The latter stems from an earlier floor-area ratio violation for which relief was previously granted. The current floor-area ratio is 4.38, and will increase to 4.41.

Abutters Nick Dean and Forbes Dewey have been working with the applicant to arrive at a solution that improves the neighborhood. The current use is an eyesore, according to Mr. Dewey. They would like to see a final plan to ensure it includes details such as space between the extension and the abutting building.  Mr. Dean called the addition an excellent opportunity, and he wants to ensure that the prominent cornice adjacent to the proposed extension is preserved and clearly visible. Luis Zauli agreed that the design is an improvement, and said the McDonalds are a good family for the neighborhood.

Construction impact might include exterior staging on the building front. Usually, such work doesn’t require a crane. Construction material will be what is dictated by the BRA to match other area buildings on Fulton Street. The ZBA hearing is scheduled for April 24th.

Jorge Mendoza moved to support the application; Anne Devlin Tagliaferro seconded. The application was supported in a vote of 10-0.

9.  226 Hanover Street, Lucca Restaurant:  Lucca Restaurant has filed an application with the City of Boston Transportation Department for a valet parking permit at this location.

Because of his friendship with a lawyer representing the applicant, Bill Lane recused himself from the discussion and left the room, in accordance with NEWNC conflict of interest rules. This discussion was a continuation of a presentation at the February NEWNC meeting. The space that is proposed for valet use is currently designated for commercial parking from 8am to noon. After 8pm, it is unrestricted, for use by residents and non-residents. The valet use would appropriate the spaces each night from 5pm to midnight for valet service.

Anne Devlin Tagliaferro moved to support the application; no other member seconded the motion. Stephen Passacantilli moved to deny the application; Philip Frattaroli seconded. The motion to deny support of the application passed in a vote of 7-2; therefore, support of the application was denied by a majority.

10.  Sheafe Street:  Presentation by Luke Ramsey on the filming of a Showtime cable network TV pilot “Ray Donovan” planned for Saturday, March 24th on Sheafe Street.

Luke Ramsey reported that the film shot requires that parking be cleared from 7am-7pm. Arrangements have been made with individual residents.  Informational Flyers will be posted in the area. Parking vouchers will be available for the North End Garage. Any permit granted by the city will be posted no later than March 20th. 

Mr. Ramsey’s phone number will be posted on the flyers. There is no reschedule date for the shoot. There will be four police officers detailed to control traffic on Margaret St., as well as at the corner of Sheafe at Salem St.

11. Announcements/Open Discussion/Comments:  No attendees elected to use the comment period.

12. Adjournment:  Meeting adjourned at 8:15pm. 

NEWNC Agenda for March 2012 Monthly Meeting

Monday, March 12, 2012, 7:00PM

Nazzaro Center, 30 N. Bennet St.

1.    Welcome – Donna Freni, President

2.    Call to order & Roll Call – Donna Freni, President

3.    Meeting Protocol – Marie Simboli, Vice President

4.    Report from the Office of Neighborhood Services – Nicole Leo   

5.    Report from the offices of local elected officials

6.    Committee reports:

            a. Resident Parking/Traffic Committee – Ryan Kenny

            b. Public Safety Committee – David Marx

c. Bylaws Committee – Ryan Kenny

d. Greenway Committee – Donna Freni

7.  100 Fulton Street, Fulton Court Condominiums:  Thomas Hawke has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeal for zoning relief to convert Unit 1A Fulton Court from commercial use to residential use.

8.  112 Fulton Street:  Andrew McDonald has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeal for zoning relief to allow enclosure of an existing deck/balcony to increase the living space.

9.  236 Hanover Street, Lucca Restaurant:  Lucca Restaurant has filed an application with the City of Boston Transportation Department for a valet parking permit at this location.

10.  Sheafe Street:  Presentation by Luke Ramsey on the filming of a Showtime cable network TV pilot “Ray Donovan” planned for Saturday, March 24^th on Sheafe Street.

11.  Announcements/Open Discussion/Comments.   

NEWNC Minutes for February 2012 Monthly Meeting

Monday, February 13th, 2012, 7:00 p.m.

Nazzaro Center, 30 N. Bennet St.

1.    Welcome – Donna Freni, President, welcomed everyone to the February NEWNC meeting.

2.    Call to order & Roll Call – Donna Freni, President, called the meeting to order at 7:01 pm.  Present:  Donna Freni, Marie Simboli, Anne Devlin-Tagliaferro, Philip Frattaroli, Jonathan Sproul, Jorge Mendoza, David Marx, Giancarlo Tiberi, Steven Passacantilli

3.    Meeting Protocol – Marie Simboli, Vice President, read the meeting protocol.

4.    Report from the Office of Neighborhood Services – Nicole Leo had no report.

5.    Report from the offices of local elected officials  - Steven Passacantilli, from City Councilor Sal LaMattina reminded people that street sweeping starts on March 1^st. 

Blake Webber, from State Representative Michelwitz was present.  No report. Reminded attendants of the ward 3 Democratic causus.

6.    Committee reports:

            a. Public Safety Committee – David Marx, Chair, reported the following crime statistics.

	Jan 1-Feb 1
Robberies	2
Aggravated assaults	1
Breaking and entering	2
Auto thefts	1
Larceny	3
Larceny from a vehicle	3
Towed vehicle	10

 Crime stayed the same from the same period last year

c. Bylaws Committee – Philip Frattaroli, Committee Member, reported that the bylaws are done, have been ratified and posted on the website.

d. Greenway Committee – Donna Freni, Chair, made the following statement:

I’m sure that many of you have been following the recent developments regarding the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway and want to share the following with you:

1.  There are currently three (3) Greenway Leadership Council Members appointed by our State Senator and State Representative, representing the North End/Waterfront neighborhood.

2.  As your representatives, we have consistently advocated for transparency and fiscal prudence, and will continue to do so.

3.  Your Leadership Council Representatives are committed to creating a world-class neighborhood park for all to enjoy.

4.  A hearing will be held within the next few weeks, either at the end of February or the beginning of March, on Representative Aaron Michlewitz’s legislation pertaining to the Greenway.  For further information, please contact Representative Michlewitz’s office at 617-722-2400.

 7.  9 Noyes Place:  Robert Griffin filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeal for zoning variance to expand 1^st floor unit living space into the basement. Mr. Gray, a contractor representing Mr. Griffin appeared before NEWNC requesting expansion of the first floor living space into a basement.  He appeared at the January Monthly meeting and the appeal was tabled because applicant had not satisfied NEWNC requirements.  Donna Freni asked about neighboring order notification.  Mr. Gray satisfied neighbor order notification.

            Jonathan Sproul asked if any neighbors contacted Mr. Gray. None have.

 Anne Pistorio asked about the source of water damage that had previously been in unit.  Mr. Gray said it was a water main break a few years back.

            Donna Freni asked about common space in the building.  Mr. Gray said there are just the stairwells and the roof.

            Jonathan Sproul asked about secondary egress.  Mr. Gray said there were two means of egress from the basement.

            Marie Simboli asked if it was owner occupied.  Mr. Gray said the owner intended to occupy it once it was done while his daughter was in college.
            Approved 9-0. Anne Devlin moved to support the application to expand 1^st floor unit living space into the basement at 9 Noyes place.  Seconded by Marie Simboli and approved 9-0.

8.  139-145 Richmond Street (aka 188 North Street):  David Veo, Trustee of Salada Realty Trust, has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeal to allow the conversion of existing retail space to a sandwich shop, and for a 36A take-out permit to allow take-out service at this location.  Laura Veo , wife of Mr. Veo represented the application.  Building has 21 units and retail on the first floor.  Laura met with inspectoral services and said there will be strictly sandwiches, soda, snacks; no cooking in store.  Laura had to meet with the Freedom Trail association as well since it is on the Freedom Trail.  Freedom trail approves. Hours of operation from around 11 A.M. to 8 P.M.  Council Member Jorge Mendoza recused himself from the hearing of this application.

People questioned the address of the retail space.  Laura Veo said 188 North Street is the physical address of the space but the Building Department refers to the building at 139-145 Richmond.

Marie Simboli  asked what it was before.  Laura Veo said a plumbing supply.

Steven Passacantilli asked how many square feet is the retail space.  Laura Veo said 230 square feet. He then asked what it is used for now.  Laura replied strictly storage and is blocked off.  He asked how far set back will it be.  Laura said approximately seven feet.  Stephen asked what Laura was previously approved for.  Laura said a Gelateria.
            Jonathan Sproul asked if there were any business plans for the retail store.  Laura said no. He asked how will they handle trash.  Laura said they have a basement in their own building where they keep recycle.

Steven Passacantilli asked what will the zoning be if they get approved for the sandwich shop.  Laura replied it will still be 21 units, 3 retail, 1 commercial, and 17 apartments.

Anne Devlin Tagliaferro  asks if she’s checked in with attendants to see if their ok with what she is doing. Laura said she’s not sure what conversations her husband has had.

Phil Orandella asked what the name of the place will be and if it will be a sandwich shop or restaurant.  Laura said she’s not sure of the name and it will be a restaurant.

David Marx made notion to support restaurant/ sandwich shop.  Philip Frattaroli seconded that. Approved 4-3.

9. 396 Hanover Street, formerly Contrada’s Coffee Shop:  Daniel Delia and Ralph Verrocchi d/b/a ”My Cousins Place,” filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeal to change the allowed use from “store with take-out” to “restaurant with take-out,” to remove the existing proviso“take-out service to this petitioner only,” and to grant a new 36A take-out to new business owner.  They have also filed an application with the Licensing Board for a 7-day CV license.  Attorney Daniel Toscano and Mr. Verrochi represented the application.

Marie Simboli asked if there was any seating.  Mr. Toscano said it was take out only, there would be no seating, just the possible addition of a counter.

Anne Devlin-Tagliaferro asked about signage.  Mr. Toscano said the metal signage would remain the same, but there would be a change of name.

Jonathan Sproul asked about hours of operation.  They will ammend their opening 6 A.M. to 9 P.M., during the summer will seek permission to remain open until 11 P.M.  

Steven Passacantili expressed support to fill an space that has been empty for a long time.  

Jonathan Sproul clearified that the council was voting for the application as submitted, including hours 6 A.M. to 11 P.M., Mr. Toscano vowed that they would close at 9 P.M. during none Summer months. 

Steven Passacantili supports the motion to change from a store with take-out to a restaurant with take-out service.  Jorge Mendoza seconds the motion. Approved by NEWNC 8-0.

10. 236 Hanover Street, Lucca Restaurant:  Lucca Restaurant has filed an application with the City of Boston Transportation Department for a valet parking permit.  Lucca was represented by owners Mathew Williams, Ted Kennedy and Sean Williams, and Attorney Karen Simao  .  They said because they are sharing a valet zone with Fiore Restaurant, several doors away, it causes people to turn an illegal u-turn The Council tabled the application for next month because there was confusion as to what the spaces in question are currently zoned for.   Council voted 7-0 to table.  

11.  Announcements/Open Discussion/Comments:  Matt Walsh and his group of civil engineering students from Northeastern University addressed NEWNC about their project studying options for a redesign of Hanover Street.  They wil be preparing a 300 page report containing their proposal for a redeisgn.