0:00The meeting’s main agenda item was the Gonzalez minor subdivision in the R10 Zone, which proposed creating a new lot for a single-family house while retaining the existing house on the original lot. Represented by Lawrence Sachs, the applicant sought approval for a new accessory structure—a 1,200 square foot garage designed to house classic cars, motorcycles, and facilitate a hobby involving HO gauge trains.

The engineer presenting the case, Mr. Key, described the subdivision plan, highlighting the property’s challenges due to its non-perpendicular configuration to the right-of-way. The plan involved maintaining the existing driveway and constructing a new compliant driveway for the new lot. The proposed house would be a two-story single-family dwelling, adhering to the building envelope and requiring variances only for lot width and frontage.

Mr. Key detailed the variances needed for the accessory structure, noting that the proposed garage’s size and height exceeded the R10 Zone’s limits. The garage, standing at 25 feet tall, would be considerably larger than the typical 150 square feet allowed. Key provided a planning analysis. He emphasized that the proposed subdivision and variances were consistent with the neighborhood’s development trends.

18:47During the discussion, concerns were raised about the garage’s size and its compatibility with the residential character of the area. It was clarified that the structure would not be used for commercial purposes or as a residence, strictly for vehicle storage and hobbies. The board discussed architectural details to ensure the garage’s exterior would match the neighborhood’s aesthetic.

The meeting also covered an engineering review that required Middlesex County planning board approval and compliance with road opening permits. There was a discussion about the feasibility of providing a turnaround-type driveway and the need for a waiver for the existing driveway’s setback requirements. Mr. Gonzalez clarified that the accessory structure would not have a second story, but plans included a mezzanine for hobby use.

Further discussions addressed compliance with landscape design standards and suggestions for increasing lot depth to enhance the yard area. The need for a bathroom within the accessory structure was justified as a convenience for Mr. Gonzalez, with a reiteration of the agreement to limit the structure’s use to non-residential purposes.

The public comment session saw no participation, leading to a motion to approve the application with all discussed variances and stipulations. The board members present voted unanimously to approve the proposal. The chairman noted the absence of public attendees and expressed a desire for future meetings to maintain similar brevity.