By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough – A controversial proposal to construct a Cumberland Farms convenience store and gasoline pumping station on Maple and Walker streets was approved by default due to the city's failure to act on the request for a special permit within the specified 90 days. The permit was granted during the City Council's March 25 meeting.
A public hearing was held by the council Dec. 17; from that point on, lawmakers had 90 days to take action.
As the recommendation of the Urban Affairs Committee to act on the application at the March 25 meeting was read by Council President Patricia Pope, Ward 3 Councilor Matt Elder noted the action was necessary, as the permit had already been granted by default.? ?After the meeting, City Solicitor Donald V. Rider Jr. confirmed Elder's statement but said that action on the fuel storage permit will be addressed at a later date.
Residents in the area strongly voiced opposition to the proposal during the public hearing. They expressed concern about added traffic and speeding and other safety problems that fear will arise in the area.
In other business, councilors recognized and congratulated five new firefighter recruits who will be entering the Massachusetts Fire Academy next month. Jonathan Ayotte, Joshua Clement, Kenneth Hancock, Bryan D”Antonio, and Jonathan Rice are Massachusetts licensed EMT's and will serve in the city's Fire Department upon graduation from the Academy.