The primary issue revolved around the proposed attic expansion exceeding the allowed 702 square feet, reaching 902 square feet instead. The board explored various strategies to resolve this, including potentially expanding the second floor by 400 square feet. This alternative would allow the attic to legally reach the desired size under zoning laws, as it would align with the regulation allowing an attic to be 50% of the floor immediately below it. This suggestion was considered feasible since the property has a generously sized lot area, making the expansion plausible without a variance.

The board also discussed the possibility of altering the dormer design to reduce the calculated livable area, suggesting modifications that would lower the height of certain sections to under seven feet, thus exempting them from being considered livable space. Another potential solution involved enclosing existing porches to add to the calculated square footage of the lower floor, which could facilitate compliance with zoning limitations.