Bicon

Tobin said Bicon is one example of why he supports City Councilor Mike Ross's idea of requiring Boston Redevelopment Authority design review of large-scale as-of-right projects.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

FOREST HILLS-The controversial Bicon dental business at 501 Arborway last month quietly received a city permit legalizing its massive offering of training courses-a use of the property that was ruled illegal a year ago but has continued.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

That fits the pattern of ISD involvement with the Bicon building, where required reviews have happened only long after construction and uses were in place.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

That led Tobin to call a City Coun-cil hearing that began to crack open ISD's claims that Bicon had no zoning violations.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

According to the permit, training courses are allowed as long as they aren't on the first floor, and Bicon has submitted plans showing a second-floor use.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

Nick Martin, a spokesperson for the Mayor's Office, had no immediate comment on DiMarzio's participation in the Bicon controversy and Menino's position about it.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

ISD says Bicon is not in that area-though a prior ISD decision in the 1980s about an adjacent lot says the overlay district does cover the area.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

Vaughn revealed that Dennis DiMarzio, a longtime friend of Mayor Thomas Menino and a former top official in his administration, has been playing a behind-the-scenes role, brokering meetings about Bicon and promising public input that has not happened.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

"This is 'Alice in Wonderland,'" said resident David Vaughn of Moccia's claims, saying neighbors do not agree that all is right with Bicon now.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009

Bicon also has refused to meet with neighbors, according to Tobin and the residents.

Jamaica Plain Gazette 2009