The application for 45 Long View Terrace aimed to resolve a long-standing interest in developing the site, with historical applications dating back to 1962. The representative for the applicant detailed the need for variances due to the lot’s undersized nature relative to the conservation zone requirements. The board was informed that the minimum lot area for the zone far exceeded the available space, necessitating relief from setback and coverage requirements. The home’s design, featuring modern elements such as a flat roof and a mix of stucco and metal finishes, was intended to optimize space within the constraints of the property’s topography.

Adjustmentsttention was given to the variances requested, which included a front yard setback of 33 feet against a requirement of 75 feet and a side yard setback of 15 feet instead of the needed 25 feet. A central issue was the street frontage variance, with the property lacking direct access to a public road, relying instead on an unimproved road, Long View Terrace. The proposal included plans to upgrade this road to a private driveway that would meet town standards.

During the meeting, board members expressed both support and concern. Some members appreciated the applicant’s efforts to address community and environmental considerations, while others highlighted the need to maintain neighborhood aesthetics and minimize disruption. The architect for the project emphasized the use of modern design elements to adapt to the site’s slope, asserting that the design was consistent with current residential trends.

Public comments reflected resident apprehension about the development’s proximity to existing homes and its potential impact on municipal services. One resident voiced concerns about the new house being only ten feet away from their property line, worrying about privacy and overshadowing. The applicant’s representative suggested a minor shift in the house’s placement to mitigate these concerns, a move supported by the board as a reasonable compromise.

Another point of discussion was stormwater management. The proposed development would incorporate a seepage pit and swales to manage runoff, addressing the potential for increased water flow due to the slope. Residents raised questions about the effectiveness of these measures, particularly given historical percolation issues on the site. The applicant committed to conducting percolation tests and adjusting plans if necessary to ensure effective water management.

The meeting also addressed the potential impacts of construction logistics on the neighborhood, including access for construction vehicles and the management of debris and snow removal. The board acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and coordination with local residents to minimize disruptions.

Conditions attached to the approval included a five-foot shift in the house’s footprint, restrictions on exterior lighting to prevent light pollution, and the requirement for tree replacement if any were removed during construction.

The meeting concluded with procedural matters, including the scheduling of a future application for another property seeking to add an apartment to a detached garage. This item was carried over to a later date.