The area, which was originally zoned industrial, was changed to medium density residential in 2003. City planner Melissa Anderson noted the designation meant the area could handle the influx of multifamily residences.

Board member Dala Rouse recused herself from the vote and instead, gave testimony on the matter after the development team requested the board be polled to ensure members could remain objective despite Rouse’s position.

Rouse echoed concerns about the potential traffic issue at the Salem Avenue and Geary Street intersection. According to the traffic analysis, the intersection did not meet city criteria for a traffic signal and based on estimates, would not meet that criteria until at least 2024.

Chairman Larry Tomlin asked staff if the traffic analysis could be verified by a third party. However, city attorney Sean Kidd said that traffic was subjective at the state level and if the board denied the project based on a subjective criteria, it invited an appeal.

Kidd said Monday’s decision was final and could not be appealed to the Albany City Council. Tomlin, however, reminded the audience that the decision could be appealed to the Land Use Board of Appeals within 21 days.

Prior to the vote, board member Daniel Sullivan said there was compelling information offered by both sides, adding, “If you walk away tonight and feel like your concerns weren’t upheld by this board, I don’t think the commission let you down. There are state laws and city ordinances and that's maybe where you’re really let down at the end of the evening.”

Love 1 Funny 2 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 5