Planning Board denies Design Review waiver for Old Farm Road project

WELLESLEY — March 23, 2026 — Wellesley Planning Board rejects Design Review waiver as residents push to eliminate RIO zoning. The board voted 3-2 on March 23 against waiving Design Review Board review for a Large House Review at 31 Old Farm Road, with members Jim Roberti, Patty Mallett and Tom Taylor opposing despite Chair Marc Charney's support; Taylor said Design Review "doesn't significantly delay projects." The board unanimously released a $288,170 hardscaping and landscaping bond at 110 Hundreds Road after interim Director Brad Downey confirmed completion. Public comment was dominated by calls to amend Article 32 and eliminate all Residential Incentive Overlay districts, with Precinct D's Kristin Whelton noting the RIO Task Force voted 9-4 for full elimination. Two Washington Street PSI cases were continued 5-0 to April 13.