The meeting began with a heartfelt tribute to Mary McNett, a former board member who passed away on Thanksgiving. Craig Ploetner spoke on behalf of the board, acknowledging her significant contributions and the lasting impact she had on the community. The board then addressed the evening’s applications, including three cases scheduled to be carried to a later date.

Among the applications discussed, one was presented by Timothy and Candace for a side deck at their property on Duncan Street. They presented their case with a detailed description of their family and home, expressing their desire for additional outdoor space. Given the narrow rear yard and the house’s existing layout, the couple proposed the deck to be built on the side. The board, however, raised concerns about the deck’s visibility from the street and the potential impact on the neighborhood’s character.

The applicants, fully prepared, presented a one-page exhibit showing the house’s interior layout, emphasizing the extensive window area and existing French doors on the side of the property. They highlighted the unique 75-foot width of their property and existing trees providing privacy from adjacent neighbors. Their neighbor also expressed support for the deck project.

Peter St, a licensed planner, supported the application, noting the practical difficulties of placing the deck in the rear yard due to the house’s existing configuration and the property’s excessive width. The board, in response, discussed the possibility of placing the deck at the back of the house and adding landscaping to shield the deck from view.

Ultimately, the board conditionally approved the deck, requiring the planting of tall shrubs to screen the deck from the street and the removal of front access. This decision reflects the board’s commitment to preserving neighborhood aesthetics while accommodating residents’ needs.

The board also addressed an application for a second-floor addition on Claremont Drive, presented by Gang Yao. However, due to discrepancies in the submitted calculations, the board temporarily adjourned the discussion.