The most notable outcome from the meeting was the board’s unanimous decision to grant a dimensional variation special permit for a proposed deck on Kimble Street. Represented by Gregory Roy of Dillison Roy, the property owner, Richard McGrath, sought to construct a deck on the southern side of an existing structure, which required a zoning relief request of 6.9 feet due to the 33.1-foot distance from the street line—less than the required 40-foot setback. The board conducted a review of the application, noting the deck’s potential to enhance property value without negatively impacting surrounding properties or neighborhood amenities.

The board also addressed concerns from the Department of Public Works, which advised that the deck’s footings should not interfere with existing sewer pipes. Roy clarified that the deck was a straightforward addition to the property, which faces Hall Street but fronts Kimble Street due to a right-of-way, necessitating the complex setback requirements. The board agreed to grant the dimensional variation, emphasizing the need for compliance with all applicable regulations. The special permit is subject to periodic reviews, with non-compliance potentially resulting in revocation. The decision will be filed with the town clerk, and provisions for appeals are in place.

The discussion then shifted to the more contentious issue of a proposed ground-mounted solar array on Mulpus Road, put forth by Team Sunshine and represented by Benjamin Carol. The 18.9-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system, consisting of 44 panels, is intended for the residential use of property owner Claire Ryan. However, the project encountered zoning hurdles, primarily regarding the 200-foot setback requirement from property lines, which the proposed installation did not meet.

Board members scrutinized the proposed distances from property lines and raised concerns about whether the setup complied with zoning bylaws. Carol attempted to reassure the board by emphasizing the advantageous positioning of the system for optimal sunlight exposure and its compliance with typical setbacks. He argued that the system was a necessary response to rising energy costs, a sentiment echoed by Ryan, who shared her struggles with high electricity bills. Despite Carol’s assurances, the board highlighted the necessity of adhering to the zoning bylaw’s setback requirements, emphasizing that adjacent properties could not be used to justify a variance.

Further complicating matters, another property owner, Brenda Dupri, expressed concerns about the proximity of the proposed solar array to her barn, prompting questions about the exact distances between structures. The board reiterated that the project must comply with the front yard setback requirement of 200 feet from the property line adjacent to Mulpus Road, which is in a residential outline district.

The meeting also delved into discussions about environmental protections, particularly concerning Mulpus Brook, which runs adjacent to the property. Questions arose about the installation of a silt fence to protect the brook during construction, and it was noted that a complete review by the planning board would follow, addressing visual impacts, buffer zones, and vegetation management.

The need for a review by the planning board was acknowledged, focusing on visual design and safety aspects of the installation.