School bus depot variance at 59 Optical Ave.

Described from the site visit how 30–40 buses nearly half the lot's width would create a morning "three-ring circus" of maneuvering and 90–110 decibel backup alarms, and questioned whether green space would later be paved.

An abutter who says he's not a NIMBY argued Keene can do better than a bus depot in a residential neighborhood, noted that the five-minute idling rule applies per bus, and worried about setting a precedent.

Argued the applicant hasn't met the legal hardship standard, that a variance shouldn't substitute for a zoning amendment, and asked whether operational commitments would be binding conditions.

A 56-year resident of 558 Marlboro St. said conditions have degraded over the years, buses would further hurt the neighborhood, and challenged the applicant to demonstrate the buses' noise in person.

A bus driver from Tanglewood Park, right behind the buses' current location, submitted neighbor signatures affirming residents hear and smell nothing from the buses parked near their community.

An elderly resident of 551 Marlboro St. said compromised immune systems among seniors nearby make them especially vulnerable to noise and exhaust, and that buses backing into the garage a few feet from his house would run alarms and emit fumes daily.

Asked whether the repair facility would serve only Optical Ave. buses, whether schoolchildren would have to walk to Eastern Ave., and who would enforce limits on STA's use — worried approval would open the door to similar facilities elsewhere.

A scientist who studies diesel exhaust detailed its carcinogenic classification, questioned whether the fleet uses post-2017 engines and modern emissions controls, and argued cold-morning startups pose the greatest health risk; she urged the board to vote no.

The Ward 5 councilor, speaking for his Marlboro Street constituents, said the use violates Article 6.3.5 and the Comprehensive Master Plan's vision of quiet, walkable neighborhoods, and urged the board to vote no.