The EPS family’s application for a special permit and variance to construct an 8-foot by 20-foot addition connecting the main dwelling to the garage on CL Street was at the forefront of the meeting. This construction aims to create an ADA-compliant residence by including a lift in the connector between the existing non-conforming accessory garage and the primary residence. Caitlyn EPS detailed the necessity of a covered space to facilitate the movement of their daughter in and out of the home, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Board members showed unanimous support for the project, appreciating the efforts to minimize the impact on the neighborhood. The permit and variance were approved on the condition that the construction complies with the submitted plans.

The board also discussed the withdrawal of an application from Crooked Lane for a special permit to construct a sports court. The applicants withdrew their application without prejudice after acknowledging the concerns of neighboring residents. The board approved this withdrawal, thereby allowing the applicants the possibility to reapply in the future without being affected by the prior application.

Another application involved the request for a variance on Old Essex Road. The intent was to create a second lot on an existing conforming lot. The proposal faced opposition from several community members who raised issues regarding potential negative impacts on property values, the neighborhood’s character, and the area’s natural beauty. Subsequently, the applicant withdrew the application without prejudice, taking into account the voiced concerns.

The Manchester by the Sea Museum’s application to restore the Portico and historical character of the original house on Central Street was also a topic of discussion. The museum representative presented the plan, highlighting the historical significance of the building and the restoration strategy. After a public hearing, the board approved the museum’s application, subject to specific conditions that were not detailed in the meeting’s summaries.

Another request for a variance was brought forward to allow the creation of a one-acre lot on a long, narrow piece of land lacking the minimum frontage. A speaker cited a previous approval of a similar variance that led to the construction and subsequent sale of a house for $1.77 million, using this as an example to stress the town’s need for more single-family housing. However, the variance request sparked a debate among board members and residents. Concerns regarding adherence to the bylaws’ spirit and the justification of hardship given the property’s recent purchase were expressed by board members. Neighbors raised objections relating to water drainage and the potential loss of neighborhood character. Some neighbors retracted their initial support, while others shared historical details of a pond on the property, expressing concerns about the potential impact on water drainage. With these factors in play, the board discussed the interpretation of the bylaws and the need for a demonstrated hardship to justify the variance.

The meeting continued after resolving initial technical difficulties with the sound recording system. There was no further mention of interruptions affecting the proceedings.