The homeowners, George Cortez and Catherine Mendez, along with their general contractor Gregory Donofrio, presented their application to the board, detailing their intention to make the 29 North 13th Street property their permanent residence. They sought approval for a variance to add a second level and expand the garage, as part of an extensive renovation project. The board’s scrutiny of the application encompassed a variety of aspects, including potential water issues, tree removal, and the placement of an HVAC unit.

Stormwater management emerged as a central concern during the meeting. Mayor Linda Karlovitch underscored the importance of addressing the potential increase in runoff resulting from the larger house size. The board debated the necessity of implementing a stormwater detention or retention system, with the applicants expressing a willingness to incorporate such features into their renovation plans. The discussion also extended to the condition and width of the existing driveway, with suggestions for improvements to ensure proper water drainage.

The board’s attention then shifted to the aesthetic and functional implications of the property’s third-floor window, which was intended to increase natural light and enhance energy efficiency. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of climate control in the attic and the window’s compliance with third-floor criteria, prompting the homeowner to agree to provide additional details, such as a drawing of the attic.

A proposed pantry in the newly designed kitchen was another point of deliberation. The board considered the pantry’s impact on impervious coverage and suggested alternatives, such as relocating or reducing its size.

The meeting also delved into the proposed development’s alignment with municipal land law goals and its effect on the existing neighborhood character. After a thorough discussion, the board motioned to approve the application, subject to several conditions. These included the removal of the pantry, side steps, and slate walkway, as well as addressing water management and driveway width concerns. The board further mandated the replacement of a removed tree and the acquisition of a driveway permit.

The board highlighted that the formal resolution for the variance would be voted on at the next regular meeting, advising the applicant to await the resolution’s adoption before starting construction. A 45-day appeal period was also noted following the resolution’s publication.

In a tangential but discussion, a resident raised issues regarding recreational devices in driveways, although this did not dominate the meeting’s agenda. The board then concluded that there would be no business for the following month and briefly touched on updates to the master plan before adjourning the meeting.