Chatham Zoning Board Weighs Historic Significance in Property Renovations

In a assembly of the Chatham Zoning Board, the most compelling topic centered around the deliberation of a proposed addition to a historically property on Old Harbor Road. The board scrutinized the application, which aimed to change, alter, or expand a non-conforming dwelling, taking into consideration the concerns raised by the Historic Commission regarding the potential diminishment of the home’s historic character. The commission had previously imposed a 90-day demolition delay, prompting the applicant to seek the Zoning Board’s perspective before proceeding further.

Throughout the discussion, board members debated the impact of the proposed changes to the roof style and the existing non-historic addition to the original house. The applicant’s representative addressed several concerns, including the effect of a tree on the property and the purpose of the proposed addition. Board members also deliberated on building coverage and weighed the Historic Commission’s feedback on the proposed design. The session culminated in the board voting to close the hearing, moving into deliberations to further analyze the application’s details.

While some expressed support for the design, others voiced concerns about the building coverage and the impact on the property’s historic significance.

Simultaneously, another property on Old Harbor Road stirred board discussions over a proposed addition and tree removal. The aesthetics of the proposed flat roof and the potential removal of a tree were topics of divergent opinions. Some board members favored the design, whereas others were open to the idea of removing the tree due to safety concerns. A suggestion to plant a new tree compensating for the removal was also raised. The board unanimously approved the application with conditions tailored to minimize disruption during peak summer periods, mandating all construction activity and vehicles be contained on-site or at a neighboring property with permission between June 30th and Labor Day, and prohibiting exterior construction on weekends.

In a unanimous decision, the board supported the renovation of an existing dwelling, eliminating an unusable garage and creating additional backyard space. The project was commended for its thoughtful renovation and adherence to standard conditions. Subsequently, the board considered an application by Jeffrey Molton Jr. for a construction project on Edgewater Drive. Molton’s presentation, which outlined the modest nature of the proposed changes, was well-received, with the board impressed by the minimal impact on the neighborhood. After a brief debate, the board approved the application without the initially discussed conditions of a concrete pad for a generator and gas service extension.

The board also tackled the application for a concrete pad, generator, and gas service extension. During the discussion, it was clarified that the concrete pad and generator did not require approval and could be done as of right. The gas service extension, if necessary, would be addressed in a new application. The board approved the application as submitted, without the mentioned conditions.

Another focal point of the meeting was the proposal to change, alter, and expand a non-conforming dwelling and lot on Pine Ridge Road. Attorney William Lichfield presented on behalf of Russell and Nancy Young, with the intention to provide the family with more space for their primary residence. Lichfield emphasized the proposal’s adequacy, compatibility, and minimal impact, asserting that the addition met the bylaw criteria. While some board members desired more comprehensive visual representations, the consensus was that the project was not substantially detrimental to the neighborhood. The board approved the application with specific conditions related to construction activity and hours of operation.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Manager:
Jill R. Goldsmith
Zoning Board Officials:
Randi Potash, Paul Semple, Virginia Fenwick, David S Nixon, David Veach, Leigh Hovey, Edward Acton, Steve DeBoer, Jeffrey S Dykens (Select Board Liaison), Sarah Clark (Staff Liaison)

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