The special permit application for the 24 by 28-foot garage addition on King Street was a focal point of discussion. The board scrutinized the project’s details, including the building coverage and floor area ratio. The proposed structure was set to alter a pre-existing non-conforming structure, which required careful consideration of zoning bylaws. Despite concerns over the increase in building coverage and the floor area ratio, the board was presented with letters of support from neighboring property owners, who advocated for the project’s approval based on the anticipated improvements to the neighborhood’s aesthetics and the Bonner family’s need for the additional space.

Safety measures and environmental impacts were also addressed. The Fire Department requested the installation of heat and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure compliance with safety standards. The Engineering Department expressed concerns regarding the sewer service and recommended the installation of roof drain drywells to manage stormwater for the new garage. Despite a denial letter from the Building Commissioner, which necessitated an appeal to the Community Development Department, the Conservation Commission and Assessor’s Office raised no objections. Moreover, the Chelmsford Water District did not express any opposition to the project.

The board’s unanimous decision to approve the special permit took into account the support from the community and the potential benefits of the proposed addition.

Another matter of interest was the request for an extension of an automatic Covid provision permit expiration for a property on Carlile Street. William Harvey III, the applicant, sought to extend the permit’s expiration date from June 8, 2024, to September 9, 2025. The board deliberated on the matter and ultimately confirmed the extension of the permit, aiding in the facilitation of continued property development under the extended timeline granted by the Covid provision.

The board also conducted a public hearing concerning a special permit for the construction of a Farmers porch on Strawberry Hill Road. The applicant, Ralph DS, proposed a 34 by 8-foot porch, which required an exception to the front setback requirement. The board examined the setback measurements, assessed whether the steps would be included under the porch cover, and considered input from various departments, including the Building Commission, Engineering Department, Chelmsford Water District, and Assessor’s Office. With public comments supporting the project, the board voted in favor of granting the special permit, allowing the project to move forward.

The 39 Evergreen Street property was also on the agenda, with a proposal for a 23 by 29-foot second-floor addition that would alter a pre-existing non-conforming structure. However, the board identified a discrepancy in the plot plan related to the size of the addition and the calculation of the floor area ratio. Recognizing the need for a certified and corrected plot plan, the board decided to postpone the discussion to the September meeting. The applicant agreed to submit the revised documentation before the next meeting, and the board unanimously approved the motion to continue.

Additionally, the meeting briefly touched upon the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw, though without presenting new information. The board also fulfilled administrative duties, including the approval of minutes from the previous meeting held on June 6, 2024.