01:28The most notable discussion of the meeting revolved around the subdivision application presented by property owners Doren and Joe Fisher. The property, previously a combined residential and commercial space, was proposed to be subdivided into a 2,500 square foot residential lot and a 3,173 square foot commercial lot. The board deliberated on the challenges posed by the undersized nature of both lots, which do not conform to current zoning requirements. The residential lot would fall short of the 6,000 square foot minimum, while the commercial lot would not meet the 5,000 square foot requirement, necessitating several variances.

17:43Board members expressed concerns that the commercial lot might struggle to attract viable businesses due to its limited size, describing it as “just really an albatross” on Main Street. Some worried that the lot could remain vacant and underutilized, potentially impacting the area’s economic vitality. Despite this, there was also a perspective that separating the properties could provide more options for potential buyers and clarify the boundaries between residential and commercial use. One member suggested that the house could serve as leverage for a buyer interested in the commercial lot, though the potential for a beneficial outcome was debated.

06:39The subdivision’s impact on parking and accessibility was also scrutinized. The planned subdivision line would bisect the existing driveway, prompting concerns about limited vehicle access. Doren Fisher explained plans to saw cut the driveway and relocate an existing fence to accommodate the new property line, which would allow parking for two vehicles, albeit with restricted access.

09:46Another point of contention was the historical context and existing non-conforming conditions of the property. Joe Fisher noted that the house was likely built in the 1950s, with the garage potentially dating back to the 1920s. The board acknowledged that the structures’ history and current state necessitated variances, particularly for side and rear yard requirements. Despite these concerns, the board recognized the applicant’s challenges in selling a property combining residential and commercial elements.

40:07In a separate agenda item, the board addressed a proposal for the use of a former church space on East Main Street. The applicant sought conditional use approval to establish a craft business with a retail component. Discussions included the separation of retail space from the production area, customer access, and ventilation concerns. The board emphasized the importance of screening non-retail activities, proper waste management, and compliance with zoning requirements.

57:46The board also considered a request for a change of use for a property previously operating as a vacant mattress store on Route 38, which is now proposed to become a retail furniture store. The applicant, represented by attorney Mike McKenna, described plans to operate showrooms without swapping inventory and confirmed that significant aesthetic improvements had been made to the site. Waste management and access issues were discussed, with the board ensuring that all necessary approvals and conditions were met.