37:26The debate over the Winans Road property centered on the appropriateness of a proposed house that many in the community, including residents and board members, described as disproportionate to the surrounding homes. The architect’s presentation highlighted a habitable floor area that exceeded the limit for the R4 zone. Community members voiced their concerns, with one resident labeling the proposed structure as a “McMansion,” emphasizing its inconsistency with the neighborhood’s average home size of 1,831 square feet. Concerns about scale, stormwater management, and zoning consistency were prevalent throughout the discussion.

20:32The architect argued for a C2 variance. However, the board maintained a focus on zoning compliance, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to existing regulations. The board highlighted the importance of maintaining neighborhood aesthetics and managing stormwater effectively, given the proposed changes.

A significant portion of the debate revolved around whether the attic space should be considered habitable, with suggestions that its use be limited to avoid further increasing the home’s living area.

1:13:34In another notable variance application, 29 Tower Road LLC sought approval for a new two-story home in an R2 residential zone. The proposed structure required front and rear yard setback variances due to the property’s undersized lot. The architect, John Babula, presented plans for a 3,300-square-foot home, aligning with the neighborhood’s architectural style. The board scrutinized the setback discrepancies and habitable floor area ratio, ultimately approving the proposal with conditions on the attic’s non-habitability.

1:31:26A distinct variance request involved a resident’s wish to convert an attic space into a play area for children at one Rock Hill Drive. The applicant’s argument that the attic served as a substitute for a basement was met with mixed responses. The board approved the request, despite concerns about adding a third level of living space.