The primary case of interest involved a proposal to construct an attached garage and a swimming pool at a single-family home located at 310 10th Avenue. The home, a Dutch Colonial built in 1906, required several variances, including a use variance for the attached garage, minimum side yard setback requirements, and aggregate side yard setback violations. An expert witness in landscape architecture provided testimony, highlighting the design considerations aimed at minimizing visual impact and maintaining the historical character of the property. The new attached garage was designed to sit back 25 feet from the front face of the home, replacing an existing detached garage.

The family, which includes three generations, emphasized their need for additional living space to care for an elderly family member. They also stressed their commitment to preserving a significant 250-year-old tree in the rear yard, justifying the decision to attach the garage rather than relocate it. The design aimed to complement the existing structure.

The proposal also included the installation of a swimming pool, necessitating a variance to reduce the required edge of the concrete surround from ten feet to five feet. The applicant argued this would still provide ample green space and comply with safety regulations, as the property would be surrounded by a six-foot fence with a gated entry. Concerns were raised regarding the total lot coverage, which the proposal sought to increase from 35% to 40%, exceeding the 30% maximum allowed. The applicant proposed implementing a stormwater management infiltration system to address potential runoff issues.

Board members engaged in discussions weighing the implications of the proposed variances for the neighborhood and zoning regulations. The detailed presentation aimed to address the board’s inquiries and concerns regarding the compatibility and impact of the proposed modifications. The conversation included discussions about the garage design, compliance with front yard requirements, and stormwater management, emphasizing the importance of managing water quality storm events. The applicant committed to maintaining stormwater management practices, even though not mandated by current ordinances.

Further deliberations focused on the placement of pool equipment. The consensus was that placing the equipment in a back corner of the yard would minimize noise disturbances to neighboring properties. The drainage plan was confirmed to direct water away from adjacent properties, preventing flooding issues.

The meeting also addressed a second application for the property at 1123 10th Avenue. The applicant proposed demolishing an existing detached garage to construct an attached garage, a second-story addition, and an in-ground swimming pool. The request included several variances, notably a D1 use variance for the attached garage and five bulk variances, including an increase in lot coverage from the maximum allowed 40% to 42%.

The board scrutinized the proposed changes, which were designed to position vehicles behind the face of the structure, viewed as a positive design element. The applicant was required to adhere to town rules prohibiting the discharge of chlorinated water onto adjacent properties.

The board voted on the application, considering the positive criteria of preserving the historic nature of the property and maintaining the neighborhood’s aesthetic. The application was approved unanimously, with conditions regarding stormwater management and grading plans, emphasizing adherence to these stipulations.

Additionally, the board considered an application for a property on Lipping Cot Avenue. The applicant proposed an addition to an existing single-family home, requiring variances for side yard setbacks and aggregate side yard requirements. The board discussed the need to recognize existing non-conformities and the importance of a grading plan due to the lot’s undersized nature. The application was approved unanimously, with conditions for compliance with the grading plan and other construction-related stipulations.

The meeting concluded with discussions on administrative matters, including an upcoming sign ordinance revision. The board expressed interest in being included in future discussions to ensure clarity and compliance with technical standards.