The meeting’s focal point was the application from EDM Construction for a special permit to retain two storage containers on their property on Popes Lane. The containers, already on-site, required a permit to remain for more than six months, transitioning them to the status of permanent structures. Ken Scholes and John Bowner, among others, voiced concerns about the proposal’s open-ended nature. Scholes emphasized the board’s unease with indefinite timelines, stating, “I hate an open-ended time frame here on this thing.” His sentiment was shared by other members who stressed the importance of a clear, finite timeline in line with existing bylaws. The discussion included a motion to continue the case to April 14, 2025, allowing EDM Construction time to refine their proposal with a structured plan.

The board’s concern extended beyond just the containers’ duration on the property. Questions arose regarding the current number of containers and their classification. Representatives from EDM Construction clarified that the containers were used for storing equipment and tools, necessary for their operations across various job sites. Despite this explanation, the board was wary of setting a precedent that could lead to future violations, as noted by one member: “I mean I’m not saying I’m a flat-out no, but I just don’t like this plan.” Ultimately, the board advised the applicant to return with a more defined proposal, respecting the regulatory framework and ensuring fairness to the town and other businesses.

The meeting then turned to a request for a finding to build a farmer’s porch on Lawrence Street. Eduardo Gonzalez, the property owner, sought approval for the porch, which would encroach on the front setback, reducing it to 6.5 feet from the property line, well short of the required 20 feet. While some board members suggested that a finding might not be necessary due to existing exceptions for porches, others insisted on clarity, given the lack of specific definitions in the bylaw.

Public input was also considered, with Bill McKenzie, a local contractor, advocating for the porch based on historical precedents that allowed similar structures close to sidewalks. The board debated the porch’s design and dimensions, particularly the placement of its stairs. Bill Bradstreet, another participant, proposed an alternative stair configuration to avoid potential sidewalk encroachment. Despite differing opinions, the board ultimately agreed on the necessity of a finding, contingent upon additional dimension details for the stairs being provided during the building permit application process.

The board also reviewed a variance request for an addition on Colin Tony Drive. The project, complicated by the lot’s unique shape and existing easements, sought to place an addition 8 feet from the side property line, which fell short of the required 15 feet. The board recognized the challenges posed by the property’s conditions, noting that the proposed encroachment was minimal compared to neighboring properties. After considering the subdivision’s constraints and the addition’s modest nature, the board approved the variance, acknowledging that it would not be more detrimental to the neighborhood than the current structure.

Another case involved 13 to 15 South Liberty Street, where a finding was requested to construct an addition on a non-conforming structure encroaching on the side setback. The board focused on ensuring that the deck addition did not further infringe on the setback, with the applicant, Patrick O’Brien, confirming plans to renovate the property for residential use. The board approved the finding, confident that the addition would align with zoning bylaws and not impact neighboring properties.