Pepperell Planning Board approves Mill Street two-family dwelling special permit unanimously

PEPPERELL — February 17, 2026 — Pepperell Planning Board unanimously approves special permit converting a long-vacant Mill Street property into a two-unit duplex. The board voted 5-0 on PBSP-25-4 for 16 Mill Street, allowing the existing single-family structure to be razed and replaced with a two-bedroom-per-unit slab-on-grade duplex of approximately 1,100 to 1,200 square feet per unit, with conditions including decommissioning the existing well and septic, individual water and sewer connections, and clearing limits tied to the 25-foot side and rear setbacks. Attorney Bruce Ringwald of Goldsmith, Pross and Ringwald represented the applicant. In a separate informational session, Barn Door owner Brendan Mahoney asked the board for help navigating a path to add a deli and restaurant at his 51 South Road property, currently in a residential zone. Town Planner Jason Klepadlo noted that a formal rezoning of the Route 119 corridor is among priorities to be discussed at a joint Planning Board and Select Board meeting set for March 26. Chair Al Fatnoe cautioned two members who verbally supported Mahoney's proposal, warning that expressing a predisposition before a public hearing could disqualify them from voting on any future application.