A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to Damato’s project, which involved replacing two non-compliant structures on a 25-foot-wide lot with a new, single-family home designed to meet current flood regulations. The property, located in the MF zoning district, required variances for side yard setbacks and lot coverage due to the lot’s size, which falls short of the 4,400-square-foot requirement. The proposed design included a 3.5-foot setback on both sides, contrasting the 8-foot standard, to accommodate a symmetrical layout. This design also featured a garage at ground level, with living spaces distributed across the second and third floors.

Board members engaged in a discussion about the fire safety implications of the proposed setbacks, given the narrow space available for emergency access. In response, the applicant’s architect noted that the proximity to neighboring properties was sufficient to allow some access, despite the constrained conditions. The board ultimately approved the required variances, including a non-conversion agreement to maintain non-habitable space on the ground floor, recognizing the design’s adherence to local flood regulations and its alignment with community standards.

Another notable application was for a property on North Fredericksburg Avenue, where the applicant sought to elevate an existing home and add a second floor. This project required variances for side yard setbacks due to the planned elevation changes. Although the lot exceeded the minimum size requirements, the existing setbacks did not conform to current standards. The board expressed overall support, emphasizing the proposal’s benefits, such as improved flood compliance and the aesthetic enhancement of the neighborhood. Concerns about increased density due to the home’s new five-bedroom layout were noted, but the board ultimately approved the application, acknowledging the design’s consistency with the area’s character.

The meeting also covered a variance application involving a renovation of one of the last original houses in its neighborhood. The project included elevating the house and adding new systems, like HVAC and plumbing, to meet regulatory standards. The applicant clarified that the elevation change, from approximately 9 feet to 12 feet, would not require additional height variances. The board approved the application, highlighting the project’s modest scale and positive neighborhood impact, as it preserved the existing structure while enhancing flood compliance.

Beyond specific applications, the board discussed forming an ordinance subcommittee to consider potential changes to the city’s master plan. Members emphasized the importance of coordinated planning and transparency in the review process. The session concluded with the establishment of a subcommittee to handle these discussions.