The most noteworthy discussion focused on the application by Angie Foot and Body LLC for a massage establishment on Mountain Avenue. The request for a conditional use variance was primarily due to the establishment’s proximity to residential properties, which typically contravenes local zoning regulations. A representative for the applicant explained that the property is already equipped with a six-foot privacy fence separating the commercial and residential areas. This was intended to mitigate any potential impact on the neighborhood.

The applicant, Ms. Lee, a licensed massage therapist with two decades of experience, detailed her plans for the business, which included offering services by appointment with operations from 10 AM to 9 PM daily. Ms. Lee, who has previously operated a similar business in Westfield, assured the board that she would be the sole operator initially, but requested flexibility to potentially employ another therapist in the future, provided they remained within the parking constraints.

Parking was a concern during the discussions. The site offers 44 parking spaces, with a reported low occupancy during peak times. The zoning ordinance requires one parking space per 200 square feet, equating to a need for four spaces for the massage establishment. Despite assurances of sufficient parking, some board members expressed concerns about future parking needs should the business expand. A proposal was made to limit operations to appointment-only to manage parking effectively, though this was debated as potentially restrictive.

Ultimately, the board granted the conditional use variance with specific conditions, including a limit on the number of employees to ensure compliance with parking requirements. The approval allows Ms. Lee to begin renovations, although formal resolution remains pending until the next meeting. The board emphasized that any business expansion beyond the approved conditions would necessitate further review.

In addition to the massage establishment application, the board addressed a residential variance request at 16Q Drive to accommodate a family with mobility challenges. The applicant explained the necessity of the variance to build an addition to the existing house, due to narrow doorways that hinder wheelchair accessibility. The planned addition would enable the couple to share a bedroom and improve the quality of life for her husband, who currently sleeps in a hospital bed in the living room. The board, recognizing the compelling need, approved the variance with a condition for a runoff plan.

Routine business was also conducted, including the memorialization of a resolution for Oakridge, block 3304, lot 21. The board confirmed meeting dates for the upcoming year, setting the third Tuesday as the regular meeting date, with an exception noted for November.