At the meeting’s core was the application by George Frey for a bulk variance to construct a dwelling on a lot smaller than zoning regulations typically allow. With the property measuring 1.5 acres in an AR2 zone where two acres are required, the board examined the challenges posed by the lot’s unusual shape and proximity to adjacent properties. The applicant’s attorney, John Jackson, and engineer Rob Civ provided a comprehensive presentation outlining the need for variances due to the lot’s triangular configuration and the proposed house’s orientation. The unusual layout necessitated a rear yard setback of 31 feet, which deviated from the required 50 feet.

Discussions highlighted multiple factors complicating the proposal, such as traffic patterns at the intersection of Lemon Road and West Farms Road. Civ argued that facing the house towards Lemon Road would enhance safety, despite the proposed rear yard setback. Additionally, due to the property’s age, precise mapping of the right-of-way was unclear, prompting a need for potential easements or additional land provision to the town.

The board’s deliberation extended to drainage and infrastructure, with the applicant proposing that front yard drainage would direct water towards Lemon Road while runoff from other areas would flow towards West Farms Road. The board also considered a waiver for curb and sidewalk along the property’s frontage. Members expressed skepticism about the necessity of sidewalks on Lemon Road due to the absence of existing infrastructure.

Public concerns were prominently featured during the meeting. A neighbor from 466 West Farms raised issues regarding the proximity of the proposed house to his property and expressed dissatisfaction with the notification process, mentioning past difficulties in negotiating with the property’s previous owner. The neighbor highlighted racially charged interactions and questioned the legitimacy of the hardship variance.

Further complicating the matter was a separate neighbor’s concern about the proposed house’s proximity to a working farm, predicting future complaints about farm-related activities. The board acknowledged these concerns but emphasized the applicant’s reasoning for the chosen site orientation and reiterated that any property owner could seek development on their land, regardless of size.

The meeting also touched on the buy-sell issue that had previously impeded the property’s sale. A realtor representing a potential buyer expressed frustration over the increased asking price and the lack of communication from the property owner’s attorney. However, the board maintained that these matters were irrelevant to the variance request under consideration.

Despite the complexity and contention surrounding the application, the board ultimately approved the variance, citing safety improvements and the project’s potential to contribute positively to the community. They acknowledged the neighbor’s concerns by proposing a stipulation in the approval resolution that would document the farm’s proximity on the property deed.

In addition to the 480 West Farms Road application, the board reviewed a separate request from Ralph and Gerald Dean Martinez for a bulk variance related to patio and paver installations within required setbacks. After addressing drainage and runoff concerns and receiving no public objections, the board granted the variance, allowing the project to proceed.