The application for a property on Franklin Street, represented by counsel from the DSE Law Firm, aims to transform an existing two-story, three-unit multifamily dwelling into a single-family residence. This change is intended to decrease the site’s intensity of use, aligning more closely with the zoning regulations for the RS residential seasonal zoning district. Despite the current structure’s non-conforming conditions, such as insufficient lot size and building setbacks, the proposal was seen as an improvement. The board agreed that converting to a single-family use would reduce the required minimum lot area from 12,500 square feet to 6,250 square feet, a move toward compliance.

A professional engineer testified about the existing conditions and proposed changes, noting the property’s location at the corner of Franklin, Corgi, and Pearl Streets. The application included plans to remove an exterior deck and stairs, slightly improving rear yard setbacks. Although the lot’s coverage would remain above the maximum allowed, it would decrease from 57% to 54%. Importantly, the plan proposed formalizing parking areas with brick pavers, meeting residential site improvement standards by increasing parking from two spaces to four.

Public comments highlighted traffic safety concerns, particularly regarding the proposed driveway modifications. A resident voiced worries about traffic flow, emphasizing the dangers posed by the narrow roads and existing traffic violations. They noted the absence of sidewalks and frequent pedestrian use, including by children. The resident suggested restricting driveway access from Pearl Street and adding shrubbery as a barrier to improve safety.

The board engaged with these concerns, noting the existing driveway apron discharged onto Pearl Street and that the proposal maintained this access point. They discussed the potential dangers of vehicles backing onto Franklin Street, considering pull-through parking as a safer option. Ultimately, the board agreed on the necessity for additional signage, including a one-way sign at the driveway exit, to mitigate traffic issues.

Another resident supported the property’s proposed improvements but questioned the need for a pull-through driveway, citing ample existing parking and congestion on Pearl Street. The resident shared observations of illegal traffic maneuvers, expressing concerns that the development might exacerbate these issues. However, a board engineer explained that pull-through parking is generally safer, supporting the proposed design despite the raised concerns.

The discussion concluded with the board approving the variances required for the development, contingent on installing a one-way sign at the driveway exit to address traffic safety issues.

Earlier in the meeting, the board deliberated over another application from William and Emily Young for a property on Decator Street. Represented by Mr. Katan, the Youngs sought approval for improvements, including a slight expansion of a small landing and site enhancements. The site, located in the RS zoning district, is historically non-conforming with undersized lot dimensions and existing drainage issues. The project proposed a covered porch and stormwater management systems to alleviate these issues, though it required variances due to ongoing non-conformities.

Testimony from the project engineer clarified the undersized nature of the property and existing non-conformities like lot area, width, and setbacks. The proposed improvements aimed to reduce lot coverage and address drainage, providing a public benefit despite not fully conforming to zoning regulations. The board’s engineer supported the application, recognizing the project’s efforts to improve the existing situation.