HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter of Support from BattistaRe: Letter of Support – Copacabana Realty Investment Inc.
Appeal Nos. 2026-002 and 2026-003
11 Potter Avenue, Hyannis, MA
To the Members of the Town of Barnstable Zoning Board of Appeals,
I am writing in strong support of the applications submitted by Copacabana Realty Investment Inc.
under Appeal Nos. 2026-002 and 2026-003 for the property located at 11 Potter Avenue in Hyannis.
These related appeals seek to modify an existing Special Permit and to allow the conversion of a legal
pre-existing nonconforming rental storage unit into a two-bedroom apartment within an existing multi-
family building. Together, the proposals result in a modest adjustment to the approved unit mix and the
productive reuse of underutilized interior space—without expanding the building footprint or altering the
character of the surrounding neighborhood.
Hyannis continues to face a critical shortage of year-round rental housing, particularly units appropriate
for working households and small families. The proposed changes increase the availability of two-
bedroom apartments while maintaining a scale and density that is consistent with prior approvals and the
intent of the Residence B zoning district. This is precisely the kind of incremental, context-sensitive
housing solution that can help address local needs without creating adverse impacts.
Importantly, the conversion of an existing storage unit into a residential apartment represents an efficient
and responsible use of already-built space. Rather than leaving nonconforming areas underutilized, this
proposal brings them into active residential use, improving the overall functionality of the property while
contributing additional housing to the downtown area.
Locating new housing within walking distance of Main Street strengthens Hyannis as a year-round,
mixed-use center. Residents living in the downtown core support local businesses, reduce reliance on
automobiles, and contribute to a more active, resilient community. This project aligns with the Town’s
broader goals of smart growth, sustainability, and downtown revitalization.
For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Zoning Board of Appeals to approve Appeal Nos. 2026-002
and 2026-003. These applications represent a thoughtful continuation of prior approvals and a meaningful
step toward addressing Hyannis’s urgent housing needs in a responsible and measured way.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Susan Battista
Founder of OverHere Hyannis
www.overherehyannis.com
525 South Street | 15 Newton Street | 58 Chase Street | 33 Pine Avenue