The meeting kicked off with the Board addressing an application for an extension of time for Coastal Custom Builders regarding properties at 803 and Main Street. This marked the third and final request for a one-year extension, tied to resolving an ongoing affordable housing issue. The applicant’s representative, Thomas J.H., provided historical context, explaining that previous extensions were necessary to meet conditions related to affordable housing contributions. The Board was informed that the applicant would present a site plan without variances once the affordable housing ordinance was adopted. The request was ultimately approved, allowing the project to proceed.

Following this, the Board turned its attention to a proposal by Brian Downey to remove an existing rear dwelling and construct a new garage with an apartment at 619 4th Avenue. The applicant’s attorney, Glen Williams, confirmed that public notice requirements had been met and all estate taxes paid. The plan involved demolishing a non-compliant two-bedroom cottage and replacing it with a new detached garage and one-bedroom apartment. Architect and engineering experts testified on the design and its compliance with zoning regulations.

During the presentation, Board members raised concerns about the practicality of the garage’s design, questioning whether it could effectively accommodate two vehicles given the narrow access. The architect assured that the design could fit two cars but acknowledged the challenges presented by the lot’s configuration. The Board discussed the necessity of variances due to the property’s non-conformance with zoning regulations, particularly minimum lot size and setbacks. It was noted that the main property area remained residential despite a small percentage of commercial zoning.

A professional traffic engineer and planner provided further insight, emphasizing a hardship associated with the property’s unusual configuration. The engineer referenced zoning maps and land use plans, explaining that while the driveway extends into a GB Zone, no change in use was proposed for that strip. The application aimed to replace a two-bedroom apartment with a garage apartment, reducing impervious coverage and moving closer to compliance with zoning plans. However, concerns persisted about the narrow driveway and the feasibility of vehicle access, necessitating multi-point turns to enter the garage.

Throughout the discussion, Board members suggested possible adjustments, such as shifting the garage northward to improve access. The property’s undersized lot, at 4,500 square feet compared to the ordinance-required 7,500 square feet for garage apartments, was a concern. A Board member highlighted that granting variances for a lot almost 40% under the threshold could set a concerning precedent. Public input echoed these sentiments, with a resident suggesting ways to make the garage more functional without exceeding impervious coverage limits.

The conversation also touched on the timing of the application relative to the introduction of new zoning ordinances, adding complexity to the Board’s decision-making process. Members debated whether the application should be evaluated based on the regulations in place at the time of submission or the updated standards.

In the end, the Board decided to take a recess for further contemplation and potential redesigns that might align the proposal with community expectations and regulations. The next meeting was scheduled for September 19, 2024, to allow the applicant time to address the concerns raised.

The meeting also included the unanimous approval of resolution 2024-18, granting use variances for Dennis and Roberta McD to reconstruct a principal structure on Park Place Avenue, damaged by fire. Additionally, resolution 2024-20 was approved, permitting Michelle Bladder and Grant to reconstruct a home and accessory garage with an apartment.