18:56A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposed deck on Berkshire Avenue, where the property owner, Russell Varney, sought a variance to build a deck closer to the property line than the bylaw’s standard requirement of 10 feet. Due to the narrow 50-foot width of his lot and the presence of a substantial retaining wall, Varney proposed a variance that would allow the deck to be between 5 to 8 feet from the property line. He explained that the wall’s placement limited available space, with 20 feet of the lawn occupied, necessitating the deck’s proposed location. The board members expressed initial reluctance to approve the 5-foot variance, debating whether a more reasonable compromise could be reached.

The conversation led to a consensus on granting a 3-foot variance, which would ensure the deck remains at least 7 feet from the property line, addressing both the board’s concerns and the limited space constraints faced by Varney. Board members also considered the deck’s design, which aimed to make efficient use of the space without excessive encroachment. The deck would feature a picnic table area and a lower section for storage and a solo stove, with helical piles used for support—a construction method less invasive than traditional concrete footings.

36:16Throughout the discussion, attention was given to safety features, such as the necessity of a railing, particularly given the deck’s 15-inch elevation. Although the height fell below the threshold requiring a railing, the board underscored safety considerations, especially where children might be present.

The absence of physical barriers at the beach-facing side of the property was another point of discussion, with concerns about potential property line disputes. The board noted that while Varney maintained positive relations with his neighbors, future occupants might not enjoy the same harmony, making clear demarcations advisable. However, the supportive statement from neighbors Andre and Linda Williams, who expressed no objections to the project, helped ease some of these concerns.

0:00The meeting also addressed the variance request for a deck on Berkshire Avenue, where guests Andre and Linda Williams attended. They had been notified of the proposed construction and stated their approval, noting, “We’re fine with it.” Their acceptance was recorded.

18:56As discussions unfolded, the board considered the procedural aspects of variance approvals. They emphasized the necessity of adhering to timelines to prevent automatic approvals, a concern raised during the meeting due to the absence of certain individuals relevant to other agenda items. The board opted to continue the discussion of such items to the next scheduled meeting to maintain procedural integrity.

36:16Ultimately, the board voted unanimously to approve the variances for both projects, providing clear instructions on the procedural steps that would follow. These included filing the variance with the clerk’s office and observing a mandatory 20-day waiting period before construction could commence.