The most notable part of the meeting involved Eileen Borland’s application for a bulk variance to replace a deteriorating deck. The deck, which had been in place for over 40 years, was in disrepair, prompting the need for replacement. The proposed new deck would maintain similar dimensions but resulted in total lot coverage exceeding the zoning limit for the area. The planner’s report highlighted that the current and proposed coverage stood at 24.7%, overshooting the 20% maximum allowed in the R3 zone. The undersized nature of the lot was noted as a contributing factor to this overage.

The board discussed potential mitigation measures to address the increased lot coverage, including implementing crushed stone beneath the deck or constructing a dry well to manage stormwater runoff. The applicant expressed willingness to comply with any recommended actions to manage runoff effectively, especially given the proximity of local streams and concerns about flooding. Throughout the discussion, the board weighed the benefits of stormwater compliance against the practical challenges posed by construction costs and site limitations.

A consensus emerged among board members on the necessity of reducing impervious coverage, eventually agreeing to a reduction from 24.7% to 23.7%. The board considered the historical non-conformity of the property under current regulations, recognizing that the proposed renovations aimed to improve this situation. Members acknowledged that the proposed improvements would benefit the community and not detract from the neighborhood’s aesthetic.

The board voted unanimously to approve the variance, emphasizing the applicant’s willingness to collaborate with the board’s engineer to explore financially viable drainage options. The approval was contingent on complying with specific conditions, including adherence to the town’s land use ordinance and implementing the engineer’s recommendations.

Another notable discussion centered around a proposal by Ronald Rodriguez to construct a first-floor and garage addition to a single-family residence. The lot, being undersized, required variances for side yard setbacks. The applicant sought to expand the existing one-car garage into a two-car garage, necessitating a 14-foot side yard setback on the left side, while the right side proposed a 16.5-foot setback.

The applicant also planned a one-story addition to enhance the functionality of the existing home, with the expansion maintaining the single-story structure’s character. Questions about the proximity of neighboring properties arose, and while the applicant did not have exact distances, the board considered the implications for neighborhood privacy and compliance with noise ordinances related to a proposed generator.

Public comments highlighted concerns about drainage and stormwater management, particularly from a neighboring resident whose property was downhill. The applicant assured the board that gutters would be installed to direct water away from neighboring properties, connecting them to an existing drainage system. The board emphasized the importance of ensuring the proposed modifications did not exacerbate existing runoff problems.

The meeting also addressed the installation of air conditioning units and a generator at a residential property. Concerns about the proximity of these units to the house and the potential noise impact were raised, leading to discussions about using a water-cooled generator, which would be quieter and longer-lasting. Landscaping plans were also discussed, with an emphasis on using deer-resistant plants to mitigate sound and enhance visual appeal.

After thorough deliberations, the board approved the application, with conditions ensuring the use of a liquid-cooled generator, compliant fencing, and adequate landscaping to screen the mechanical units. The board expressed support for the applicant’s responsiveness to neighbor concerns and the positive changes the renovations would bring to the neighborhood.