03:23The board’s most prominent discussion involved Application 2459 from Mr. Patel regarding his property on Troy Meadow Road. The application sought a variance to legalize a finished attic, turning it into a three-story dwelling, contrary to zoning regulations. The applicant clarified that the attic would serve solely as a storage area with no heating or air conditioning, addressing board concerns about its potential use as living space. The applicant’s representative, Joseph O’Neal, highlighted the family’s need for storage, with photos illustrating items like clothing and jewelry intended for the attic. Board members probed deeply into the specifics of the attic’s use, confirming that the house, built with a zoning permit in 2019, included plans for stair access to the attic. Despite initial confusion about the house’s construction status, it was confirmed that the structure was part of a subdivision with pre-approved plans. After clarifying the terminology in the resolution to specify “finished attic for storage,” the board unanimously approved the variance.

17:26Attention then turned to Application 24-74 from Lonnie and Paula Catz of 15 Colonial Terrace, who sought to construct a new open deck with stairs and legalize an existing deck. The couple explained that their kitchen remodel necessitated improved access to their yard, proposing a small deck off new sliding doors for easier outdoor use. The existing deck had been inherited with the home in 1999 without prior approval from the town. The board navigated confusion about the variance request, noting that the proposed deck would minimally increase open yard space. With clarification, the board granted the variance unanimously, allowing the Catz to proceed with their plans.

24:06In contrast, the board postponed Application 24-79 from another Mr. Patel for a property on Hillside Terrace. The proposal included constructing additions and addressing water damage issues. However, the absence of a critical municipal engineer’s report from March 31, 2025, impeded progress. The board underscored the necessity of reviewing this documentation to assess the financial implications and potential modifications needed for the applicant’s plans. The application was carried to June 25, 2025, allowing time for the applicant to consult with the engineer and develop a plan.

35:39In a separate discussion, the board reviewed an application from the law firm Day Pittney for a wall sign at their new office location on Silven Way. The proposed sign exceeded the 25-foot height limit, reaching 28 feet, and was planned to be illuminated until 10 p.m. to aid client identification. Feedback from the municipal engineer suggested dimming the sign during non-business hours, a condition the firm agreed to. The board, recognizing Day Pittney as a significant local employer, expressed support for the variance, citing minimal visual impact and alignment with the building’s architecture. The motion to approve the variance, with conditions on illumination, was passed unanimously, facilitating the firm’s relocation and continued community presence.