30:41The most noteworthy decision involved the application submitted by Patrick and Caroline Tully, who sought a special permit for a significant two-story addition to their home on Guliver Street. The Tullys, who have strong ties to the neighborhood, proposed a 16-foot by 28-foot addition that would extend the existing structure closer to the property lines than allowed under current zoning laws. The proposed construction faced a specific conflict with the Milton zoning bylaw, which requires a setback of at least 30 feet from the side lot line, while the Tullys’ plan placed the addition only 13.1 feet away.

37:06During the hearing, Patrick Tully shared the history of his family’s home and the difficulties of accommodating a growing family within its current 1,500-square-foot layout. He plans to demolish the existing garage and mudroom and build a new structure with a bedroom and bathroom above, aligning with the neighborhood’s architectural trends. Patrick emphasized that the addition was necessary to maintain their quality of life and to ensure that the house remained in character with the surrounding homes.

42:34The hearing included a review of the lot’s unusual shape, which contributed to the zoning challenge. Despite the increased non-conformity due to the height of the proposed addition, the board recognized the strong support from the Tullys’ neighbors. Patrick confirmed that he had consulted with nearby residents, who were unanimously in favor of the project. The board ultimately granted the special permit, with the understanding that the decision would be drafted and filed, initiating a 20-day appeal period before construction could begin.

14:56In another significant decision, the board reviewed an application by Robert Sprag and his wife Caroline for a special permit to construct a new deck at their property on Brook Road. The proposed deck would be seven feet from the side lot line, which is less than the 10-foot setback required by Milton’s zoning bylaws. The Sprags argued that the deck would replace an existing staircase that intruded even further into the setback area, improving both their family’s living conditions and the neighborhood’s aesthetics.

20:32Robert Sprag explained that the deck would enhance their backyard’s usability, particularly for their family, which includes a child. Caroline Sprag added that the current stairs had become non-functional due to recent kitchen renovations. The board noted the lack of objections from adjacent neighbors and granted the special permit, outlining the procedural steps required before construction could proceed.

27:44Finally, Francisco Reyes Caravalo received approval for a modest addition to his home on Malbury Road. The proposed two-story extension would expand the living space by enclosing an existing porch and aligning it with the garage’s side, addressing the family’s need for additional bathroom space. The addition would also be closer to the property line than allowed by zoning laws, but the board acknowledged that the adjacent area was non-residential and presented minimal impact on neighbors.

Caravalo pointed out the wooded area adjacent to the proposed addition and confirmed that neighbors had no objections. The board approved the permit, emphasizing the practical necessity of the addition and the minimal encroachment on the property line.