Framingham Planning Board Meeting - April 9, 2026

The Framingham Planning Board met remotely on April 9, 2026 at 7:00 PM. All five members were present: Chair Ted Cosgrove, Elsiana Zaka, Stephen Duby, Matt Cunio, Tom Bowie, and Mitch Mataran. The board approved minutes from a previous meeting and then considered a single agenda item: a sign application for Naya, a new Middle Eastern restaurant at Shoppers World. The meeting also included staff updates on a PRD project and a discussion about sharing housing data with the public.

Consent Calendar

• The board approved the minutes of the previous meeting by unanimous roll call vote (6-0).

Discussion Items

• Naya Sign Application: Applicant Carolyn Parker, representing the sign installer, presented a proposal for a halo-lit "Naya" sign over the entrance. The applicant had initially sought to add "Middle Eastern Goodness" on an existing awning, but the sign officer disallowed that. Board members discussed allowing the additional text as part of a single sign if it remains within the dimensional limits of Shoppers World's sign guidelines (maximum 320 square feet, but with smaller tenant limits). The board also approved painting of the brick storefront surround, noting precedent set by other tenants. Board member Matt Cunio raised safety concerns about outdoor tables and chairs visible in the application, recommending bollards and fire/building department approval. The board agreed that if the sign design with "Middle Eastern Goodness" is compliant, it can be approved administratively; if not, the applicant must return.
• Staff Update: Sarkey provided an update on a city council hearing for the Vios project (PRD redevelopment) that was continued to May 19, 2026. Issues include density (proposed 20 units vs. original 17), roadway improvements, and whether a two-thirds vote is required. The mayor requested staff help finalize a memorandum of agreement and zoning changes. An abutter expressed concern about setting a precedent for other PRDs. Board members noted each PRD is situational.
• Upcoming Projects: Sarkey mentioned a Waverly Street overlay district initiative and a 40-unit condominium project going before the Zoning Board of Appeals for a use variance.
• Housing Data Presentation: Matt Cunio requested wider distribution of a recent housing data presentation by Framingham State professors, calling it the best presentation in six years. He suggested posting on the city website and social media to inform citizens and reduce speculation. Chair Ted Cosgrove agreed and said he would present it to the city council and incorporate data into a housing production plan.

Key Outcomes

• The board voted unanimously to approve the Naya sign application as discussed, allowing the addition of "Middle Eastern Goodness" text if compliant with size limits, and approved the brick painting. If the revised sign meets guidelines, it may be approved administratively without returning to the board.
• The board noted the continued city council hearing on the Vios PRD project to May 19, 2026.
• Chair Ted Cosgrove committed to presenting the housing data to the city council and working on a housing production plan.
• The board adjourned at approximately the end of the meeting, with the next regular meeting scheduled for May 7, 2026.