The primary focus of the meeting was the application from Christopher and Vanessa Greer, who sought to expand their home with a 550-square-foot addition on the north side. The proposed addition would increase the total floor area to 4,188 square feet, surpassing the zone limit by 968 square feet. The Greers’ representative clarified that the variance requested pertained solely to the maximum floor area cap, as other zoning requirements were met. The board reviewed the architectural plans and discussed the addition’s potential impact on the neighborhood.

A significant aspect of the discussion involved the classification of a three-season room, which was renovated in 2017 to include windows but not heating or air conditioning. This room was central to the debate on whether it should be calculated as part of the total habitable square footage. Some board members questioned its classification. The homeowners argued that they had added heating and cooling facilities only recently, maintaining the room’s status as a seasonal space.

The board also examined the proposal’s compliance with updated zoning ordinances, particularly concerning ceiling heights and attic space utilization. Under the new rules, certain attic areas could be considered habitable, affecting the overall square footage calculations. The board scrutinized whether these areas were practical for conversion, given their limited height.

Brian Olsson, a neighbor to the south, praised the design and emphasized its alignment with neighborhood aesthetics. He commended the Greers for their openness and suggested that the addition would improve the area’s appearance. Other residents echoed these sentiments, noting the proposal’s compatibility with existing neighborhood structures and expressing confidence that it would enhance the community.

The board also discussed potential solutions to align the project with zoning requirements. Suggestions included adjusting the addition’s placement to utilize existing space and minimize lot coverage. The possibility of incorporating stormwater management strategies, such as a drywell system, was also considered to offset the addition’s impact. These measures aimed to address concerns about compliance and the project’s visual impact.

A particularly contentious point was the comparison of the Greers’ property to nearby homes, with board members assessing whether the size and scale of the proposed addition were consistent with neighborhood norms. While some properties exceeded the 4,000-square-foot threshold, board members debated the precedent such an approval could set for future applications.

The board encouraged the Greers to revise their application with these considerations in mind, offering a timeline for the submission of updated plans. The application was carried to the November 13 meeting, with the board emphasizing the importance of addressing zoning compliance and maintaining neighborhood character.