328 & 330 Mill St | 20fl | Proposed

[tomh009]

I don't know about you guys, but I don't feel so great about losing housing because of things that nobody actually likes: setbacks and "stepbacks"

I mean on one hand sure… I guess. Though I actually do think setbacks are important. 

But I think the real question should be, why is the ZBA necessary for this development when the developer could easily build within the existing regulations and even build a bigger building. I see no good reason for needing an amendment here and it impetus is on the developer to demonstrate why it’s necessary in a situation like this where height isn’t the issue.

I expect that a taller tower on a podium (which would provide the step-back and allow the required setbacks) would cost more to build than a lower straight-sided slab. Otherwise the developer surely wouldn't be bothering with the amendment request.