Bonitati Bros., Inc. v. Zoning Board of Review

We review on certiorari the respondent board’s denial by a 4 - 1 vote of the petitioner’s application for permission to construct and operate a modern gasoline' automotive service station in a 6.4 Shopping Center District where such a use is allowable as an exception upon a showing that it is “* * * in harmony with the general purpose and intent of this ordinance, or where such exceptions are reasonably necessary for the convenience or welfare of the public.” (Sec. 10.33 of Woonsocket Zoning Ordinance.)

The board in a cryptic decision gave two reasons for de nying relief. One was that the road…