City Council approves Beachmont VFW’s request for commuter parking

New revenue source would help defray costs for veterans’ post

By Barbara Taormina

REVERE – City Councillors were unanimous in their support of an application from the Beachmont VFW Post 6712, 150 Bennington St., to use part of their parking lot as a commercial auto lot where vehicles can be parked by fee or lease. Post Quarter Master Gerry Goodwin said blocking off 22 spaces in the 73-space lot for paying customers would provide the nonprofit the opportunity to generate some much-needed revenue. Councillors all agreed with Goodwin that city veterans should have a nice place to gather.

But the plan had support from more than veterans’ advocates. Arcadia Street resident Anthony Parziale told councillors he supported the idea because as a small businessman it would provide a spot for him to park his dump trucks. He doesn’t like to take space on his street with commercial vehicles.

While the council was in favor of the plan, they did have a few questions and requests. City Council President Pro Tempore Joanne McKenna, who represents Beachmont, asked Goodwin if the club could clear away the rocks and concrete on the side of the building and clean up the property. Goodwin explained that the VFW has been working on the exterior of the building and has changed the charity in charge of the clothing donation bin so items would be picked up more frequently. Goodwin agreed to spruce up the exterior of the club.

Councillor-at-Large Marc Silvestri asked about insurance for cars paying to park. Councillor-at-Large Dan Rizzo said the city would do anything it can to support a place for veterans. “I stand with all of you,” said Rizzo.

Ward 6 Councillor Richard Serino asked who was the target for the new spaces. Goodwin said he figured it would be commuters who would be parking from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., thus no nighttime disturbances.

“We used to have a dozen veterans’ places in the city,” said Ward 5 Councillor John Powers. “This is a great way to raise money. We don’t want to lose any more veterans’ places.”

Councillor-at-Large Gerry Visconti also expressed his appreciation for the idea. “Congratulations to you and the people working with you to make it a respectful and nice place for veterans,” Visconti told Goodwin.