The Malden City Council on May 5 laid the groundwork for major changes to the city’s commercial landscape by referring to committee ambitious zoning overhauls aimed at revitalizing key corridors and bringing in much needed new revenue.
The meeting opened on a solemn note with two moments of silence, one for a child tragically killed by a falling tree in neighboring Melrose, and another honoring Anthony “Chick” Chiccuarelli, who recently passed away.
“I would like to have a moment of silence for one of my Ward 8 residents and a colleague to all of us,” said Councilor Jadeane Sica. “He was a human resources director for approximately 10 years or so. I’ve known Chick for a lot longer than that, him and his wife, the three kids. It’s just an absolute devastating tragedy.”
Targeting economic development and zoning
A comprehensive economic development package and a targeted Commercial St. zoning analysis were submitted by Mayor Gary Christenson, with support from Councilor Ari Taylor, who leads the Economic Development Committee. Taylor expressed interest in scheduling a special “off-committee meeting night” on May 18 to invite local businesses, community members and the historic commission to discuss the plans and ensure everyone has input…