One of the most notable discussions centered around a proposed garage addition on a corner lot at High Street. The homeowners aimed to replace an existing driveway on Springfield Avenue that reduced their usable outdoor space. The proposed design included a garage with driveway access from High Street, intended to enhance privacy and create a more functional backyard area. The project required variances for front and side yard setbacks due to the garage’s placement and the addition of a small pantry. The board examined the design’s impact on site aesthetics.

The board deliberated on the implications of the garage’s orientation and its visual relationship with neighboring properties. Discussions also tackled the potential for alternative garage placements and the viability of maintaining a driveway on the busier Springfield Avenue. The homeowners expressed a preference for prioritizing outdoor space over additional parking capacity, emphasizing their desire for a practical and private backyard environment. The board acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the corner lot, ultimately supporting the project based on its thoughtful integration with the existing structure and neighborhood character.

Simultaneously, another significant proposal involved the addition of a second story to a Cape Cod style house on Essex Road. The applicants sought to remodel their 1953 home to better accommodate their family, requiring a variance for combined sideyard dimensions. The board evaluated the proposed changes, including the removal of the roof to create a second story, which would not exceed the neighborhood’s height limits. The conversation included the impact on adjacent properties, particularly concerning the height increase and sideyard dimensions. The board members engaged with the architect to clarify these aspects, resulting in a favorable view of the project’s compatibility with the neighborhood.

Another case discussed was the construction of an inground pool in a backyard characterized by a steep slope. The homeowners, long-standing members of the Summit community, presented their plan to enhance their property’s functionality. The proposal required careful attention to stormwater management due to the existing topography. Professional witnesses, including an engineer and a pool contractor, detailed the technical aspects of the project, such as retaining wall construction and drainage system improvements. The board scrutinized the project’s potential environmental impact.

The board also reviewed landscaping plans related to the pool installation, emphasizing privacy and screening. The landscaping plan was designed to blend with existing features and provide effective coverage to shield pool activities from neighboring properties. Despite the challenges posed by the steep slope, the board expressed satisfaction with the proposed stormwater management and landscaping strategies, ultimately granting approval for the project.