The proposal for the self-storage facility on approximately 29 acres of land was a focal point of the meeting. This extensive project, represented by Kenneth Pape of Hurn Pape, required variances for parking, signage, building coverage, and impervious coverage. The board’s approval was contingent on conditions like limited hours of operation, lighting regulations, and strict adherence to stormwater control measures.

The self-storage facility, designed to include 11 buildings with one serving as the office and staff area, presented comprehensive plans for the development. The applicant detailed the operation of the facility, highlighting security measures and compliance with statutory requirements that prohibit residential use and the storage of hazardous materials. The proposed buildings were also described as being solar-ready, with a reinforced roof structure to accommodate potential future solar panel installation.

During the meeting, the board engaged in discussions on the facility’s design, including the installation of LED light fixtures, wall-mounted and monument signs, and the integration of the buildings with the surrounding environment. The traffic expert provided testimony on the low traffic generation of the facility, the adequacy of parking, and the design of circulation areas. A professional planner argued the case for the requested variances, emphasizing the compatibility of the proposed use with the property and the lack of significant detriment to the surrounding area.

The board also addressed concerns about the building coverage and impervious coverage, noting that the proposed figures were lower than the ordinance requirements. Questions were raised about the types of vehicles allowed on the property, the height of the canopy structure, and the location of mechanicals for climate-controlled buildings. The applicant’s representatives confirmed that all fencing around the property would be 6 feet in height and committed to replenishing dead landscaping along the property’s frontage.

Public comments brought up issues such as the impact of the facility on nearby residents and the environment. Concerns about potential runoff from stored RVs were addressed, with assurances that all hard surfaces would be directed into a compliant stormwater control system. The board clarified that there would be no on-premise auctions of abandoned units, as auctions are primarily conducted online.

In addition to the self-storage facility, the board discussed variances for a property that included an increase in fence height and impervious coverage. The homeowner explained the need for a higher fence to block the pool area from the neighbor’s view and detailed the construction of various aspects of the property, including a pool house. The board members debated the impact of the construction on the neighborhood, the size of the patio and pool house, and the unevenness of the fence height. A resident voiced strong objections, citing concerns about the long duration of the construction process and the impact on community uniformity and property values.