Gloucester ZBA Approves Two Residential Permits, Continues 40B Hearing to August 28

GLOUCESTER -- August 14, 2025, Gloucester Zoning Board approves two unanimous home permits and sets August 28 for 40B public testimony. The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5-0 on each of two applications at its August 14 hybrid meeting: a special permit and front-yard setback variance for Melissa Carey to add a two-story rear addition and front bump-out at 44 High Street, and a home occupation special permit under Section 5.3 of the zoning ordinance for Rebecca Chapman to operate a small one-on-one wellness practice at 25 Brooks Road, Map 247, Lot 28. No public opposition was raised on either matter. Chair Joseph Parisi previewed the August 28 agenda, noting that the board has retained legal counsel for the pending 40B affordable housing application and that public testimony on that matter will open at the next meeting, with per-speaker time limits to be set. Parisi also indicated he would ask counsel to assess whether Gloucester qualifies for any Chapter 40B safe-harbor provisions based on the city's current affordable housing percentage.