0:28At the core of the meeting was the complex application for the properties at 230, 236, and Grant Street. The proposed project involved reconfiguring three existing lots into new lots designated as 12.01, 13.02, and 14.01. The application required three variances, primarily concerning setbacks and lot size requirements. The reconfiguration aimed to establish a cohesive residential area for the applicant’s family, with plans to construct a new two-story residence on Lot 14.01, including parking underneath.

The board deliberated on the variances. Proposed Lot 13.02 requested a variance from the 25-foot building setback requirement, proposing a 16.3-foot setback. For Lot 14.01, a variance was sought for a 20.5-foot setback, slightly improving upon the existing 17.7 feet but still short of the required 25 feet. The lot size variance for Lot 14.01, which proposed a size of 7,254 square feet against the 7,500 square feet requirement, was also discussed. The board found the requests reasonable, given that the proposed changes improved existing conditions.

43:51A concern during the meeting was the drainage issue affecting the properties. The board discussed the historical drainage installations by the city and the challenges posed by the higher elevation of an adjacent city-owned Lot 38, which contributed to drainage problems for the neighboring properties. The applicant agreed to contribute towards the construction of a new drainage inlet if the city decided to proceed with improvements. The planning board emphasized the importance of addressing these drainage concerns as part of the approval process.

24:17The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) had previously granted conceptual approval for the design of the new dwelling and parking area, with a focus on minimizing the visibility of the garage and ensuring the building did not appear overly elevated. The board confirmed that the HPC’s conceptual approval included the proposed landscaping and parking arrangements.

Additional discussions revolved around the temporary placement of stone in the backyard of one of the properties to accommodate parking for guests and contractors during construction. A neighbor’s complaint about the unpermitted placement of this stone led to assurances that the stone would be removed post-construction, restoring the area to its original state.

1:39:27The board also addressed logistical concerns, such as contractor parking and the impact of construction on neighboring properties. A proposal was made to conditionally require contractors to park in the rear during construction to minimize inconvenience to the neighborhood.

As the meeting progressed, the board examined the broader implications of the proposed subdivision, emphasizing the need for approval of the variances as they pertain to setback and lot area requirements. The board’s engineer confirmed that the proposed changes would improve upon existing non-conformities, particularly the front yard setback for the current structure on Grant Street.

1:20:54The session concluded with a roll call vote, resulting in unanimous approval of the minor subdivision and variances. The approval was subject to conditions addressing drainage, landscaping, and compliance with local, state, and county regulations, particularly given the project’s location within a historic district.