The applications for a property on Bennett Street and School Street were of considerable interest due to their potential impact on the community. At 9 Bennett Street, the homeowner’s revised plans addressed previous concerns by reducing the house size, altering the driveway to be partly porous, and moving the screen porch further from the property line. Despite public comments regarding the property’s proximity to the harbor and regulatory compliance, the board approved the special permit and variance for construction, stipulating conditions related to the placement and construction of the new residence.

Similarly, for the property on School Street, the board considered adjustments made to the proposed structure after concerns were voiced about its size, setbacks, and parking. The revised plan included the elimination of a garage, reduction in the building’s length and depth, and provision for additional parking spaces and increased green space. Following a review, the board approved the special permit and variance with conditions concerning design and impervious surfaces.

A separate proposed building project for a two-family residence also came under scrutiny. Residents expressed concerns about the building’s proximity to other properties, its impact on privacy, traffic, and safety, and questioned its necessity and compliance with zoning regulations. The board discussed the special permit sought and parking requirements, noting that the proposed parking area exceeded minimum requirements. Despite the concerns, the board closed the public hearing.

On School Street, the potential impact of another project on neighborhood parking and traffic, particularly the safety of children walking to school, was debated. The board, acknowledging the need for more housing, eventually approved the application for a special permit with conditions, including restrictions on short-term rentals.

A historically significant variance request concerning a barn with structural issues was also deliberated. The board grappled with the expiration of a previous special permit and the lack of an employee living in the proposed living space, with the town’s previous vote against expanding the bylaw related to the request playing a role in the discussion. Though the applicants cited financial hardship and unique circumstances, concerns about parking and property impervious ratio remained.

Another special permit discussion focused on the renovation of a non-conforming accessory barn on Union Street. The board considered whether parking requirements for both the commercial space on the first floor and the residential space were being met. The property’s historical use and preservation also featured in the debate, with the board eventually closing the public hearing to deliberate on the issuance of the special permit and the practical and financial aspects of adding a dormer to the barn.

The meeting concluded with the approval of Adam and Cynthia Zager’s application for a special permit to add a dormer and convert an existing barn into living quarters for an employee. However, the segment of the application seeking a variance to allow occupancy by non-employees was withdrawn. Additionally, Gary Gilbert’s variance application to construct a tool shed encroaching into front and side setbacks was approved following his presentation and the closing of the public hearing.

Administrative topics included the announcement of two new board members, Georgia Pendergast and Diane Lee, and expressions of gratitude to departing board members. The process for board resignation and appointment was also discussed, emphasizing procedural aspects of board service.