Zoning Board Considers Firefly Multi-Family Development

The Zoning Board of Appeals held a Public Hearing on January 8th regarding a proposed residential development which would be situated on the former Firefly golf course.

The developer, 320 Fall River LLC and 350 Commercial LLC, is seeking a comprehensive permit pursuant to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40B to construct 65 residential buildings with a total of 280 multi-family residential units at 320 Fall River Avenue and 350 Fall River Avenue.

Chapter 40B is a state statute, which enables local Zoning Boards of Appeals to approve affordable housing developments under flexible rules if at least 20-25 percent of the units have long-term affordability restrictions.

Opponents of the proposal noted increased traffic and additional burdens on public safety, including police and fire services. The possibility of increased property taxes were also cited.

“The burden is going to fall on the existing residents of (Seekonk),” said Wayne Boisvert. “It’s not fair and it’s not right.”

Boisvert asked if the matter could be put before the voters at a town meeting.

ZBA Chairman Gary Sagar said the board had the ultimate authority to determine whether or not the project goes forward.

The ZBA voted to resume the public hearing on February 5.

In October 2022, the ZBA gave authorization to developer Charles Tapalian to construct seven buildings with a total of 240 multi-family residential units, which will include 60 affordable units at the former Showcase Cinemas site at 800 Fall River Ave. (Route 114A), adjacent to the 405-unit Greenbrier Village apartment complex.

Tapalian bought the Showcase in 2018 for $3.7 million. The theater had closed in 2010.