The most notable item on the agenda was the application from David and Lauren De Allesandro, who sought approval for the renovation of their single-family home. Architect Joseph J. Bruno presented the project’s architectural design, which included expanding the first floor to enhance living space and adding a home office and expanding the master bedroom suite on the second floor. The design aimed to align with the neighborhood’s traditional aesthetic, incorporating stone veneer cladding and a portico roof over the entrance to complement the area’s American colonial style.

Crucial to the board’s decision were the variance requests due to the property’s existing and proposed coverage exceeding zoning limits. The current lot coverage was 26.07%, against the permissible 25%, and the proposal would increase it to 29%. Furthermore, improved lot coverage, excluding yard amenities, was initially 26.49% and would rise to 37.2%. However, a board member highlighted that existing coverage, including yard amenities, was about 49.73%, with the proposal reducing it to 44.2%.

Throughout the discussions, precise calculations of lot coverage and setbacks were scrutinized. The board sought clarity on the numbers. Emphasis was placed on the undersized nature of the lot, measuring 5,250 square feet against a required 7,500 square feet, which complicated the renovation plans but was addressed by the applicants.

Beyond the variances, stormwater management was another key focus of the meeting. The architect proposed installing an underground stormwater chamber to manage roof runoff, crucial for minimizing any potential drainage issues. A professional recommended incorporating a seepage pit and suggested the use of permeable pavers to mitigate the excess lot coverage. Although the architect expressed concerns about the effectiveness of permeable pavers during winter, he agreed to explore this option and adjust the walkway to conform to regulations.

The board’s inquiries extended to the existing conditions on the property, including a patio under the deck designed to allow water absorption, and the covered front porch that required variance relief due to its non-conforming status. Adjustments were proposed to ensure the walkway and under-deck area remained permeable, contributing to improved lot coverage metrics.

Ultimately, after thorough deliberations and clarifications, the board unanimously approved the project with the requested variances. The approval was contingent upon implementing the stormwater management plans and making the necessary adjustments to the walkway and under-deck area to adhere to zoning standards. The meeting concluded without further public comments or business.

In other business, the board reviewed an application from IAT Services LLC for variance relief concerning a static billboard on Grand Avenue. The draft resolution underwent typographical corrections before being approved unanimously. The board also completed a completeness review for the DNL Delisandro application, confirming the sufficiency of submitted proofs to proceed with the hearing.