08:49Melissa Nardone’s appeal against the zoning enforcement officer’s order took center stage as she defended her decade-long operation of a small dog daycare from her home on Center Street. Nardone, who emphasized the personalized care she provides for a limited number of dogs, argued that her business aligns with the mixed-use character of her neighborhood, which is near commercial activities and experiences significant traffic. Despite her efforts to comply with local regulations by maintaining a dog count of four or fewer since receiving a warning in 2022, she faced another communication indicating a violation, leading to the current enforcement action.

01:23:19The zoning board, while acknowledging the absence of formal complaints against Nardone’s business, maintained that the operation of more than four dogs constitutes a commercial kennel under local and state laws. Planning Director Brian Zakelli clarified that the enforcement was based on the reported existence of the business exceeding this limit. Board members discussed the potential for Nardone to relocate her business to a commercial facility, which she countered by highlighting the unique home environment her service provides.

30:28Community support for Nardone was overwhelming, with numerous residents speaking on her behalf during the public comment section. Many characterized the enforcement as an overreach and questioned the validity and fairness of anonymous complaints. One board member expressed concerns over the implications of such complaints. Resident Susan Barry, familiar with Nardone’s operations, vouched for the absence of noise and traffic disturbances from her daycare, contrasting it with other neighborhood activities.

01:01:40The board reiterated its role in enforcing zoning laws and emphasized that any changes to the bylaws must be addressed through a town meeting. Suggestions for rezoning or granting special permits to accommodate unique cases like Nardone’s were proposed but faced procedural hurdles.

01:48:39In parallel, the board deliberated on other zoning matters, including a request from Dominic Malerba Jr. for a variance to accommodate an addition to his home on Sycamore Street. Malerba explained the need for additional space due to his growing family, and the board engaged in discussions about the design and compliance with setback requirements. Despite concerns over the visual impact and necessity of the proposed garage design, the board unanimously approved the variance request, recognizing the modest nature of the expansion and the supportive stance of neighbors.

01:54:57Additionally, the board reviewed a dimensional variance request for a new accessory structure on Locust Street. The applicant sought to build a two-car garage with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above, intending to provide housing for a family member. The board scrutinized the proposal’s alignment with zoning requirements, particularly focusing on the garage’s proximity to the property line and the ADU’s size. Ultimately, the board approved the variance, citing the need to accommodate personal and familial needs while maintaining compliance with zoning laws.