The meeting, led by Chair Tom Noel, included a review of the Island Brook LLC extension request. The developer, represented by Agino, emphasized the necessity of the extension due to unforeseen delays in the project timeline, including ongoing peer reviews by Graves Engineering. Agino argued for a three-year extension instead of a more typical one-year term to avoid repeated requests, given that the project’s approval process had already taken longer than anticipated.

The board members deliberated on the potential impacts of the extension and the timeline for Mass Housing’s approval, which might take an additional six to eight months post-board endorsement. This categorization and the subsequent approval of the extension were both unanimous.

In another significant agenda item, the board addressed a variance request for a property on West Main Street, presented by Mark Esperti. The property, located in a Village Commercial zone, did not meet the zoning requirements for lot area, frontage, and side setback dimensions. The existing non-conforming single-family structure is set to be converted into a duplex, necessitating the variance due to its current size of 14,482 square feet, less than the required 26,000 square feet, and other dimensional discrepancies.

The board’s discussion acknowledged the historical context of the property, including previous ownership issues and configurations that led to the need for relief. The variance request also involved a reduction in frontage from 120 feet to 100.5 feet and a side yard setback reduction from 10 feet to 2.2 feet. The board members noted that these hardships were inherited by the current owner, Mr. Sperry, who also serves as the contractor, rather than self-created.

After closing the public hearing with no objections raised from the community, the board voted unanimously to approve the variance, citing the minimal nature of the requested changes and the practical constraints posed by the existing structure. The decision aligned with prior planning board approvals.

The meeting concluded with a moment of recognition for long-serving board member Brian Spangler, who is stepping down after nearly two decades of service. The board expressed gratitude for his dedication, presenting him with a certificate of appreciation. Spangler reflected on his tenure with gratitude, highlighting the bittersweet nature of his departure as he returns to work after spending time with his family.