A key discussion at the meeting centered around the application from Kenneth Cornu, who sought to expand his home on Texas Avenue. Represented by Anthony Monzo, the Cornus applied for variances due to the property’s existing non-conforming rear yard setback. The proposed project involved expanding the current structure over the garage and extending westward, which necessitated variance relief because of the non-conformity of the rear yard setback and the intended vertical expansion.

The property’s existing structure, designed primarily for entertainment rather than permanent residency, prompted the Cornus to pursue these expansions. Architect Jerry Blackman highlighted issues such as leaky windows and a heavy clay tile roof causing internal damage. The renovations aimed to create functional living spaces, including a master suite and additional bedrooms, increasing the total number of bedrooms from five to eight. Blackman emphasized the need for enhanced storage and an indoor gym to suit the Cornu family’s requirements.

The board members engaged in a discussion about the proposed changes, considering factors like parking and stormwater management. The applicant’s representatives argued that the development aligned with appropriate land use, promoting public health, safety, and welfare. They claimed the design minimized site impact and maintained a desirable visual environment.

Concerns were raised about the expansion’s scale, potentially making it the largest house in the area. The absence of sidewalks along Harbor Cove also prompted debate. Ultimately, the board unanimously approved the motion to grant the requested variances and waivers, contingent on submitting a tree replacement plan.

Another agenda item involved the variance request by McFarland Associates for a property on Madison Avenue. This historic building’s application required several variances due to its size and configuration, including the conversion of a screened porch into a bathroom, which would increase the property’s gross floor area. This modification required variances related to lot size, width, and coverage.

The applicant emphasized the property’s historical integrity, with the house having been in the family since 1986. The proposed changes aimed to enhance the building’s appearance without altering its fundamental use. The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) had granted approval for the project, but the variance was necessary due to the proposed living space increase.

Architect and planner Chris Zender provided expert testimony, detailing the specific variances needed and the advancement of zoning purposes such as public health, safety, and historic conservation. The discussion also covered the property’s existing non-conformities, including lot size and coverage. The application sought relief under C1 hardship criteria and leveraged the C2 balancing test, arguing the proposed project would not impact the neighborhood.

The board eventually voted unanimously to approve the application, with an emphasis on resubmitting to the HPC if any modifications were made. The approval was contingent upon meeting conditions outlined in the engineer’s report.

In addition to these major applications, the board considered a variance request for a privacy fence exceeding the allowed height on Clagghorn Place. The applicant, Paul Grena, sought relief due to the fence’s actual construction height exceeding the planned specifications. The board approved this variance, as neighbors voiced no objections, and the fence served as a buffer against an unsightly municipal building.