Chatham Zoning Board Approves Significant Modifications to Historic Home Amid Broad Support
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Meeting Date:
09/12/2024
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Recording Published:
09/12/2024
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Duration:
95 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Barnstable County
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Towns:
Chatham
- Meeting Overview:
The Chatham Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on March 29, 2023, saw the approval of multiple applications, including substantial modifications to a historic home on Mill Hill Lane, with all decisions receiving unanimous support from the board members present.
The most notable discussion involved two applications from the Friendly Nominee Trust concerning a historic home on Mill Hill Lane. The first application, which proposed altering the non-conforming dwelling, was withdrawn unanimously. The second, seeking to expand the dwelling by adding new features, was presented by architect Leslie Schneberger. The proposed modifications included a new staircase, a mudroom, a home office, and a second-floor bathroom, increasing the building coverage to 21.8% from the existing 17.4%, which already exceeded the zoning limit of 15%.
Schneberger highlighted that the design aimed to enhance the safety, functionality, and energy efficiency of the property while maintaining its historic Cape-style character. The alterations would include an expanded family room on the south side of the property without changing the structure’s height, creating a more enclosed courtyard and improving the property’s overall layout. Support letters from the Chatham Historical Commission and the health agent affirmed that the changes would not detract from the home’s historic value.
During the public comment period, no objections were raised, and board member David Nixon expressed support for the project, emphasizing its modest scale and design, which aligned with the neighborhood’s character. The application was approved with standard conditions, including managing construction activities to minimize disruption to neighbors. Specific conditions stipulated that construction vehicles must remain on-site or on neighboring properties with permission, and no exterior construction would be permitted between June 30 and Labor Day or on weekends, with working hours restricted to 8 AM to 5 PM.
Next, the board reviewed an application for a property on Pine Grove Road, represented by attorney William Lichfield. This proposal sought to expand an existing non-conforming deck, which would further reduce the distance from the coastal conservancy district floodplain from the required 50 feet to 6.7 feet. Despite the increased non-conformity, board members noted that the expansion aligned well with neighborhood characteristics and expressed confidence in the applicants’ property care. The Conservation Commission and the health department had no objections, and the board approved the application unanimously after a favorable deliberation.
Another discussion involved a new application for a property on Pine Avenue, presented by attorney James Norcross. This application proposed demolishing an existing non-conforming dwelling and constructing a new one that would comply with current zoning bylaws. Norcross explained that the existing structure, built in the 1950s, was in poor condition and that a renovation was not feasible. The new design aimed to provide more living space for the applicants, who intended to relocate to Chatham full-time. The board members agreed that the proposal was a reasonable solution, given the condition of the existing structure and the need for more livable space, leading to unanimous approval.
The meeting also covered a proposal for a new residential structure, emphasizing its height and size in relation to the neighborhood. Board members expressed varying concerns about the height. Ultimately, the proposal was withdrawn without prejudice after a motion to reconsider the design was unanimously supported.
Another application discussed involved 161 Old Queenan Road, which proposed converting a garage to a family room while demolishing a non-conforming porch and constructing new entryways. The board determined that the minimal changes would not alter the neighborhood’s character and approved the application unanimously after positive comments from neighbors and no public opposition.
Lastly, the board reviewed a request for a one-year extension of a special permit for a property on Chad Harbor Lane. The applicant, represented by attorney Michael Ford, required the extension due to a transition to a new architectural firm. The board noted that this was the first extension request and approved it unanimously after confirming the need for careful project review.
Jill R. Goldsmith
Zoning Board Officials:
Randi Potash, Paul Semple, Virginia Fenwick, David S Nixon, David Veach, Leigh Hovey, Edward Acton, Steve DeBoer, Jeffrey S Dykens (Select Board Liaison), Sarah Clark (Staff Liaison)
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
09/12/2024
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Recording Published:
09/12/2024
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Duration:
95 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Barnstable County
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Towns:
Chatham
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