Board member Nanci Seltzer, who represents the neighborhood, voted in favor of the project, with assurances from the developer that flooding isn't going to be an issue. An engineer on the project has said storm drains and water runoff systems should actually improve drainage in the area.

"Your work is reputable, but I want to put this on the record," Seltzer said before voting on the application. "You have to make sure residents who live behind the site will not have any drainage issues."

The project, being developed by James One LLC, includes 21 condominium units in five buildings. A previous application to construct 28 units on the site under the state's affordable housing statute was rejected by the board last month. The developers are appealing that decision.

Board member Frank Goodrich said it was "selfish" of neighbors not to expect someone to develop the 1.5-acre parcel.

"If somebody wants to buy the property and pay taxes on it without developing it, then that would be fine," he said. "But to expect someone to keep the property undeveloped is selfish."

He added advantages of the project include less traffic than a mixed-use development, little impact to local schools and increased tax revenue from a blighted property.

"This project will have the least impact on the neighborhood and it has my approval," he said, adding his concerns about the previous application, including garages for two handicapped accessible units, were addressed by the developer.

An attorney representing the developer said construction on the project will likely start as soon as possible.

"My client will be very pleased that the board approved the application unanimously," Leo Carroll said shortly after the meeting, which was held in the City Hall auditorium.

Although he has yet to speak with his client, Carroll said the developer would "in all likelihood" withdraw his appeal of the board's previous decision.

Dirk Perrefort, who covers Milford, can be reached at 878-2130.