The application for a property on North Main Street by Nazer Zaher stirred considerable debate among board members and residents alike. The primary concern centered on the accuracy of survey data, particularly the height of the proposed addition, which was set at 30.67 feet. Clarification was sought on the method used to calculate this height, given the potential for discrepancies based on the average grade around the property. Board members emphasized the importance of using precise calculations to ensure compliance with the town’s zoning bylaws.

Community involvement was notably high for this project, with residents Nick Lunta and Ed Dino from Running Brook Circle voicing their concerns. Lunta highlighted issues regarding the property’s access, particularly the potential use of Running Brook Circle as an entrance, which he opposed due to past unauthorized curb cuts by previous owners. Both Lunta and Dino expressed their approval of the new construction but were adamant about maintaining current access routes to avoid further disruption in their neighborhood.

The board engaged with the residents’ concerns, discussing the implications of a second curb cut and its impact on local traffic and drainage systems. A decision was made to conditionally approve the application, stipulating that vehicular access would be restricted to North Main Street, thereby addressing the neighborhood’s apprehensions.

The board also tackled concerns about stormwater management, as the project would increase the impervious surface area on the lot. The Board of Health had recommended infiltration measures to manage runoff, prompting discussions about the need for a comprehensive stormwater management system. The board underscored the importance of adhering to these recommendations to prevent potential drainage issues in the future, a sentiment echoed by the residents who had experienced past problems due to inadequate infrastructure.

The meeting also addressed applications for other properties, including 35 Walnut Street, where Alyssa and Todd Ante sought approval for a scaled-back addition. The board reviewed the non-conforming aspects of the property, ultimately approving the application after determining that the new plans were less detrimental than the existing structure. The board’s decision was guided by the applicants’ efforts to reduce the scope of their project in response to increased building costs and contractor issues.

In addition, the board considered an application for a property on South Main Street, which involved an addition to the right side of the property. The discussion focused on the lot’s short frontage and the need for a variance. The board reviewed the zoning chart and confirmed that the proposed changes would not alter the existing structure, approving the application with conditions for stormwater infiltration, given the property’s location within an aquifer protection district.

The board’s actions underscored the importance of balancing development with the preservation of neighborhood integrity and environmental considerations.