The application for a property on Highland Avenue, presented by the property owners and their representative, proposed the construction of a new dwelling and garage. The proposal sought to reduce the garage footprint, move the house back from the street to address a non-conformity, and embrace the historical aesthetic of Chatham. Immediate abutters supported the changes, as did a neighbor who emphasized the historical value of the area and the property owners’ attempts to improve their property. Despite this, the board grappled with the increase in non-conformity, the potential impact on the neighborhood, and the interpretation of zoning regulations. Matters such as the placement of the AC condenser and generator, as well as the scale and mass of the proposed construction, were discussed in detail. The board conducted a straw vote, which resulted in majority support, and after some debate, agreed to revise the garage to the original proposal, approving it with a vote of 3-1.

Another application involved a property on Seine Road, where the applicant proposed to demolish an existing non-conforming dwelling and construct a new one, leaving an unchanged non-conforming barn. The proposed dwelling would be closer to the coastal Conservancy District and neighboring properties than zoning regulations allow, and the building coverage would exceed the maximum limit, necessitating a special permit. The board’s discussion focused on the non-conforming nature of the proposed dwelling, its location, and the building coverage. Issues regarding the environmental impact due to its proximity to the coastal Conservancy District and potential effects on the natural surroundings were raised.

Further discussions at the meeting included an application representing Janine Hoy for a demolition and rebuild project. The proposal described a design that respected the character of the neighborhood without further encroachment on the lot line. The lot was conforming, with ample upland area, and the design included traditional materials and an attached garage. The project was considered to have no adverse impact on the neighborhood or the environment. The board received notes from various commissions and agents, with the Health Agent indicating the possibility of an additional bedroom with an appropriate septic system, and the Conservation Commission and Historic Commission providing their assessments. The board unanimously approved the application, highlighting the project’s compliance with criteria and the thorough presentation of the proposal.

In other business, an application for a sign permit on Main Street was debated. The property owner questioned the necessity of approval for a sign that had been in place since 1981. Board members discussed the sign’s size and its compliance with regulations, ultimately approving the application unanimously.

The board also addressed a proposal for the construction of an elevated stairway and landings on Riverview Drive, which aimed to provide access to Muddy Creek. The need for stairs and the compliance with bylaws for Conservancy districts were discussed, focusing on the criteria for the special permit and the stairs’ location relative to the Coastal Bank.