MARLBOROUGH – Requests to expand a gas station’s hours and to install a drive-through ATM at the former site of Boston Market were heard by the City Council at its June 5 meeting.
24-hour schedule for Seasons
James Hall, the general counsel for applicant Colbea Enterprises LLC, presented a request to have the Seasons gas station/convenience store at 342 Boston Post East expand to 24 hours.
Hall said the company is seeking an exception to the city code.
He said the 24-hour operation would accommodate those who work a second or third shift, as well as early commuters and contractors clearing snow during the winter.
Hall added that the police have no objections to the change. He said the site is well lit and has 32 surveillance cameras.
“We believe it’s a welfare for the town,” said Hall.
Hall said the previous owner had a 24-hour-operation permit; the station’s current hours are 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Some members of the City Council were concerned about the request. Ward 1 Councilor Laura Wagner noted the timing of the request, given the current construction projects along Boston Post Road East.
At-Large Councilor Mark Oram pointed out that several gas stations along Route 495 are open 24 hours; if Seasons receives permission to open 24 hours, why not other stations in town?
“It’s not fair to the others,” he said.
The matter was sent to the council’s Urban Affairs Committee.
Drive-through ATM
The former Boston Market at 189 Boston Post Road West could soon become a drive-through ATM for Chase Bank. JP Morgan Chase Bank has filed an application for a special permit.
While a spokesman on behalf of the applicant said there would be a minimal impact on traffic, At-Large Councilor Samantha Perlman asked about traffic and parking issues. The recent opening of Raising Cane’s chicken fingers – about 50 yards from the site – has caused an increase in traffic.
The request was also sent along to the Urban Affairs Committee.
Public hearings scheduled
The City Council has scheduled public hearings for June 26 for two applications.
A wireless special permit was applied for by Kristen LeDuc on behalf of Dish Wireless to install three wireless antennas and related equipment on the rooftop at 2 Mount Royal Ave. The hearing will be conducted by the Public Services Committee.
There’s also an application for modification of a special permit from Ralph Aronov on behalf of Green Gold Group Inc. to amend the hours of operation, type of use, and to allow for internally illuminated signage at the adult use marijuana retail establishment at 910 Boston Post Road East within the Wayside District. Hearing will be conducted by the Urban Affairs Committee.
