The Plymouth Zoning Board of Appeals navigated a high-stakes agenda Monday night, punctuated by a significant decision to allow a residential overhaul on Sandwich Street. Attorney Rob Dembrosia presented the case for McGre, Inc., which sought to replace two underutilized medical buildings with a 26-unit apartment complex. Dembrosia argued the change would revitalize the area, stating, this proposed residential use is more suitable for this site than what's there right now in terms of whether or not it's more detrimental. Developer Rick Veo underscored his commitment to the community, telling the board, we’ve never proposed a project that we do not feel is in the best interest of Plymouth. Board member Michael Leary voiced his approval of the aesthetic shift, noting, I think it’s more in character with the neighborhood as far as being residential versus commercial.

Abutters were less convinced, citing concerns over historical rights-of-way and groundwater displacement. Resident Rebecca Towers urged the board to reconsider, warning that this proposal replaces my home’s open frontage with a continuous wall of residential windows directly in front of my home. Legal questions regarding an alleged easement dominated much of the deliberation. Peter Conner addressed the lack of documented proof for the claim, explaining, if I was provided evidence of a right of way or an easement, I would be voting against this project. While David Peck expressed hesitation, stating, I think it’s just too big for that site, the majority favored the proposal. Motion Made by Michael Leary to approve case number 4195 with the eight conditions listed. Vote Passed 4-1 (Main, Leary, Conner, Conroy voting Yes; Peck voting No).

Earlier in the session, the room reached capacity as the board received a status update on a 40B development at Hedge Road and Sandia Drive. Chair Michael Main expressed frustration with PY Homes over the late submission of materials, remarking, to bring people out here time and again and not have a full package is wearing very thin. Engineer Peter Ellison attempted to reassure the crowd with technical data, stating, we are providing a 30 to 40 percent reduction in peak rates to the wetland system. Resident and Select Board member Deb Quinto countered the optimism, observing, I’ve not heard one person speak out in favor of this project. Ed Conroy took a hard line on site control, asserting, I’d like two signed copies of the purchase and sale and any amendments within 48 hours. Motion Made by Michael Leary to continue the two cases to February 9th at 6 p.m. Vote Passed 5-0

The board also addressed Case 4196 involving the Briggs Halfway Pond Realty Trust. Representative Sean Harris requested a special permit to lift and renovate a cottage on Gallows Pond Road, explaining, it’s a very sensitive piece of property; it’s something that is really important to this family. Kevin O'Reilly read the legal advertisement and later highlighted procedural hurdles, noting, public health would not approve an addition at this time due to unresolved bedroom counts. Tom Wallace participated in the unanimous consensus to allow the petitioner more time to gather engineering stamps, joining the final vote with a supportive Aye. Motion Made by Michael Leary to continue case number 4196 till January 26, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Vote Passed 5-0

The meeting was adjourned at 9:24 PM