The most pressing topic discussed was Application 24-06 for a new two-story single-family home on Homer Street by Jazbar Singh, seeking a variance for lot coverage. The proposed home would accommodate an extended family, including Singh, his wife, their two sons, and his parents. The design aimed to provide a bedroom and bathroom on the first floor for the elderly parents, while the upper floor would feature four bedrooms, including a prayer room, and additional bathrooms. The applicant’s representative, Mr. Miola, emphasized that the home office was intended for family use and not business activities.

Board members raised concerns about the room sizes and overall building coverage, which exceeded zoning standards. Miola defended the design, citing the need for equal-sized rooms for the children and additional bathrooms, which he claimed are common in contemporary homes. He also expressed willingness to modify the plans, such as converting a full bathroom into a half-bath, to address the board’s concerns.

The proposed house, with a footprint of approximately 3,000 square feet, was perceived by some as resembling a larger 6,000 square foot structure due to its width. A board member questioned if the large size was justified for six residents, while the applicant’s representative argued the necessity based on the family’s needs and the lot’s conformity.

Community members voiced strong opinions during the public comment period. One resident expressed concern that the proposed home, with a total area of 7,781 square feet, would disrupt the neighborhood’s uniform aesthetic. They highlighted that the new structure’s height would overshadow nearby homes, creating a stark contrast. Another resident, Kathy Lynch, presented photographs of the current neighborhood, arguing that the new home would not fit within the existing character and could set a precedent for future developments.

Other residents emphasized the cultural context of the design, noting that family dynamics have evolved, and the board should consider contemporary living arrangements. However, this perspective was met with mixed reactions, as some residents remained focused on zoning regulations and neighborhood aesthetics rather than cultural implications.

The board deliberated on whether to proceed with a vote or defer it until revised plans could be submitted. The applicant’s representatives expressed readiness to make further adjustments, including reducing the house size and ensuring the total building coverage remained below 20%. The board decided to allow public comments to gauge community sentiment before making a final decision.

In another significant topic, a proposal for a new pharmacy on North Beverick Road by Atar Ran was discussed. Ran, a registered pharmacist with over 20 years of experience, outlined his plan for a small “mom and pop” pharmacy to meet the community’s needs. He addressed parking concerns, security protocols, and the need for variances for signage and use. The board expressed support for the application, recognizing the necessity of a local pharmacy and the benefits of adaptive reuse of existing space.

The board sought a middle ground.