One of the most discussed topics during the meeting was the application by Brian and Katie Fox for a special permit to construct an addition to their home on Cove Road. The project involves expanding living space and adding a drive-under garage, where an existing shed currently stands. The application sought relief for a reduced rear yard setback and height variance, essential for accommodating the new structure within the confines of their property. The proposed rear yard setback was notably reduced from the required 20 feet to just 3.7 feet, and a building height variance of 9.7 feet was requested.

Ryan Proctor, representing the applicants, provided an overview of the proposed changes. He clarified that the existing structure’s distance from the rear property line was 19.7 feet, with an accessory structure as close as 1.1 feet off the property line, which falls within a 5-foot easement. The proposed addition would improve this situation by increasing the setback to 3.7 feet, thereby moving it out of the easement.

The board was particularly concerned with ensuring compliance with health regulations, especially regarding the property’s septic system. The Board of Health required a Title 5 inspection to confirm that the existing three-bedroom septic system could handle the new addition. The project also needed to meet the Conservation Commission’s standards, as parts of the construction fall within the 100-foot buffer zone of Hickory Hills Lake.

During public comments, Donna Saiah, a resident of nearby Sandy Cove Road, expressed both excitement and concern over the proposed addition. Saiah’s primary apprehensions involved the proximity of the new structure to existing utilities, particularly her septic system and water lines. She highlighted that any failure in her septic system, especially with recent heavy rains impacting water table levels, would necessitate relocating the system to her front yard, potentially complicating the construction.

Saiah also requested that the builders place stakes along the property line to help visualize the proposed addition’s impact, a suggestion the board acknowledged as practical. The discussion included potential flooding concerns due to the yard’s grade, with assurances from the board that the addition’s design would direct water away from her property.

The board addressed Saiah’s concern about removing a tree on the property, confirming the tree’s location entirely on the applicant’s land and noting her lack of objection to its removal. The discussion ensured that the plans adhered to Title 5 code requirements regarding the distance between the septic system and the property foundation.

After thorough deliberation, the board moved to approve the addition, contingent upon receiving necessary approvals from the Conservation Commission and the Board of Health. The motion included provisions for staking the property line to alleviate neighbor concerns about boundary encroachments. The board’s decision passed unanimously, granting the special permit while ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and allowing for an appeal period for any parties in disagreement.