The most significant topic of the meeting revolved around the approval of a new single-family home at 116 18th Avenue, replacing an existing two-family dwelling. This application garnered extensive discussion, particularly concerning the desired transition from a non-conforming use to a more compliant structure. The proposed home, intended to serve as a permanent vacation spot for future generations, was presented with a focus on enhancing the visual aesthetic of the neighborhood.

A representative clarified that the existing structure did not comply with current zoning setbacks, and the proposed changes aimed to rectify these non-compliances. The new two-story home, approximately 2,450 square feet, would feature three bedrooms on the second floor and two bathrooms. The design aimed to balance modern elements with compatibility to neighboring homes. The discussion included reviewing images of neighboring properties to evaluate the proposed home’s size and character. Mr. Milo, who provided architectural details, argued that the design echoed existing developments and complemented the neighborhood. The board scrutinized the zoning calculations, particularly concerning building coverage and floor area ratio, with the proposed home reportedly decreasing impervious coverage compared to the existing structure.

A point of discussion included the proposed driveway and parking layout. The plan included a driveway set back one foot from the property line with a total width of 10 feet, meeting the parking requirements but not fully conforming to buffer zone requirements. Despite these challenges, the board found the arrangement satisfactory, acknowledging the limitations posed by the existing lot conditions.

The board emphasized the importance of addressing potential negative impacts and ensuring compliance with all zoning and building codes. The discussion also covered the placement of air conditioning units and landscaping, emphasizing compliance with distance regulations from property lines.

Another notable discussion centered on a proposed residential project that included the expansion of a principal dwelling and the construction of a new accessory cottage and garage. This project required variances for building coverage and the expansion of a non-conforming use. Mary Hearn, a licensed architect, testified about the design aspects, highlighting the necessity to expand due to the deterioration of the existing foundation, which was inadequate for supporting additional floors. The redesign aimed to remove several variances while aligning with impervious coverage regulations.

Frank Morris, the general contractor, provided insights into the construction challenges, noting the undersized existing footings and the risks posed by water penetration over the years. The proposed new design was presented as a significant improvement, addressing both structural integrity and zoning compliance. The interaction between Hearn and Morris underscored the collaborative effort to resolve the project’s challenges, with the board members reflecting on the property’s history and the implications of the new design.

Additionally, the board reviewed the application for a property at 905 13th Avenue, where approval was sought for constructing a new single-family home and a pool. The board discussed inconsistencies between the plans and the initial denial letter, focusing on conditions such as underground utilities, building sprinkler systems, height regulations, and proper landscaping maintenance. The applicant’s engineer confirmed that the lot coverage would be reduced to under 55%, eliminating the need for a variance.

The meeting also addressed the estate of Ki10 at 18th Avenue, which sought approval to reconstruct a fire-destroyed single-family dwelling unit. The board reviewed conditions to ensure compliance with fire and construction codes, confirming that the previously existing structure contained two and a half stories, not three and a half as incorrectly stated in the plans. The application was accepted unanimously as modified.

Lastly, an application for Thomas and Jennifer Bowski at 105 15th Avenue was denied due to concerns about floor area ratio, the undersized nature of the lot, and parking issues. The board members who voted against the application were reminded that only those who supported the denial could vote on the resolution. Comments regarding typos in the resolution were noted for correction.

The meeting concluded with procedural confirmations and the postponement of the McFarlands’ case at 219 15th Avenue to a later date. The board secretary confirmed that proper notice had been provided for the hearing, allowing the meeting to proceed without the McFarlands’ case being heard.