The board considered a variance application for the restoration of a concrete dock tied to the town’s heritage. The dock, which has been a fixture for observing the Intracoastal Waterway and fishing, holds sentimental value for the community, as evidenced by a 1973 photograph of the Brown family using the dock. Despite the dock not being utilized for boat parking, its historical significance sparked a debate among board members and public commenters. The discussion centered on the structural changes necessary to accommodate a new seawall and the importance of preserving the dock as a historical element. Concerns were raised about setting a precedent for future restoration requests, yet the board navigated these issues, considering federal and state-level approvals, and recommended the approval of the restoration based on its historical importance.

Another focus of the meeting was an application by an agent for a homeowner involving the inclusion of artificial turf and landscaping modifications to a property. The board scrutinized the application to ensure compliance with the town’s ordinance on impervious surfaces. Adjustments to the driveway and patio stones were discussed, with the board ultimately approving the application after confirming the changes met the necessary requirements.

A new home design for Lot 8 Blue Water Cove also captured the board’s attention. The proposed Georgian style home, presented by an architect from Affinity architects, aimed to stand out from the neighboring properties. The application spurred a conversation about the height of the home’s 16-foot front entry feature, which was deliberated in the context of a pending ordinance. The board weighed the entry’s height against the overall aesthetics and scale of the home, along with the landscaping plans designed to ensure privacy around the spa and integrate greenery with the architectural style.

The board reviewed a proposal for the construction of a new 6,343 square foot single-family dwelling complete with a three-car garage, swimming pool, fire pit, seating area, and landscaping, including a Calwe hedge for privacy. The fire pit’s classification as a minor accessory structure was discussed, with the board recommending approval of the architectural site plan, conditional on specified landscaping modifications.

Additionally, a presentation was made for the replacement of a rear cabana within a property. The proposed 300 square foot structure would comply with height restrictions and setbacks, featuring a roof design and glass percentage in line with the existing residence’s architectural style. The board granted approval for the necessary demolition and land clearing permits, along with an architectural site plan for the new cabana.

The agenda further included a variance request for a concrete dock refurbishment due to a failed seawall. The refurbishment was framed as a safety concern, not new construction. The board’s discussion on this matter revolved around the dock code requirements and the specific circumstances necessitating the dock’s replacement.

The session also broached the subject of a dock expansion, with debate primarily focusing on the dock’s dimensions and the prohibition of a future boat lift. The board recommended approval for the variance and the architectural site plan. Moreover, the meeting addressed a proposed expansion to an existing guest cottage, with assurances that the expansion would preserve the property’s natural feel and have no impact on zoning criteria. The board approved the architectural site plan and land clearing permit for the cottage expansion.