54:54The most notable topic discussed during the meeting was the approval of Sterling Tower Holding LLC’s proposed development on Route 9. The project includes expanding an existing office building and modernizing the site to accommodate more professional services. This development involves merging additional adjacent lots to increase the property size to over 10,000 square feet, although it remains slightly below the required 11,875 square feet for corner lots in the R10 zone. The council considered the addition of a two-story extension to the existing structure, the removal of a non-conforming detached garage, and the construction of an attached garage. These changes aim to streamline the building’s use and enhance its overall aesthetic appeal.

20:49The proposal also outlined a comprehensive parking plan, which includes a new garage accommodating two vehicles and a revised parking area with seven spaces, including an EV charger. The development’s parking provisions meet the requirements for a general office space, which necessitates ten parking spaces for a 2,200-square-foot office.

Adjustmentsttention was given to landscaping and stormwater management. The plan includes the installation of a solid vinyl fence along the property line, evergreen trees to buffer the area, and the use of porous pavement to facilitate water recharge. Although the property’s current landscaping is minimal, the applicant committed to enhancing the site with new shade trees and shrubs to screen the parking area from Route 9. The council was particularly focused on ensuring that the lighting design minimizes light spillage onto neighboring properties, with plans to dim lights during non-operating hours to enhance security.

Another focal point was the planned rotation of a monument sign on the property to improve visibility. The proposed sign, facing Route 9, would stand five feet tall and nine feet long. Landscaping around the base of the sign would include black-eyed Susans and liriope, providing a visually appealing addition to the site.

01:46In addition to the Route 9 project, the council approved Salvatore Reno’s application to construct a 24 by 24-foot detached garage at his residence on Adam Boulevard. The garage will be used for vehicle storage and children’s items, with a revised driveway design to provide a straight path from the house to the garage. This adjustment was necessary due to an easement on the property. The garage will comply with zoning regulations, being set five feet from the property line, and will not include electricity or plumbing.

06:28Neighbor Ricardo Fontanila, residing on Eugene Boulevard, inquired about the garage’s location, height, and aesthetics. Reno assured Fontanila that the garage would adhere to the proposed dimensions and comply with zoning guidelines. Fontanila expressed no objections, leading to the council’s unanimous approval of the application, contingent on conditions discussed during the meeting, including the removal of the existing driveway for improved aesthetic value.

09:24The council also addressed the reconstruction of an existing deck into an ADA-compliant porch. The plan involves adding a ramp from the front of the building to the deck porch landing to ensure accessibility. The request for a setback relief of five feet was approved, recognizing the necessity of ADA access and the modification’s alignment with existing structures.

01:16:07Discussions also highlighted the need for digital copies of plans to streamline meetings and facilitate better reviews of large-scale applications. The idea of providing council members with laptops or tablets garnered interest, as it could enhance operational efficiency.