The most significant portion of the meeting revolved around the application from Archer Capital LLC for a property on River Road. The project involved constructing a single-family home on a vacant lot, requiring multiple variances related to site plan requirements, lot area, lot width, side setbacks, and building coverage. The applicant, represented by Mr. Paige and Mr. Patel, presented a revised proposal to the board, reducing the originally requested variances based on prior feedback.

Mr. Patel testified about his family’s long history in Middlesex County and described the proposed modest home, which would include three bedrooms and a garage. Initially, the design required a 30% variance for side lot coverage, but following discussions with the board, this was reduced to 25%. Mr. Patel emphasized the necessity of the garage to avoid parking on the street, stating that the design adjustments were made to be economical and efficient for the town’s resources.

The board’s inquiries focused on the property’s location and the specific address, which Mr. Patel clarified would likely fall between 91 and River Road. The applicant also called Mr. Craig Rahen Camp, a professional planner, to provide insights on the planning aspects. Mr. Rahen Camp used aerial photographs to illustrate the historical development of the area, depicting the lot as an “orphan” disconnected by surrounding developments. He argued that the proposed construction was reasonable and would not negatively impact the neighborhood, emphasizing the modern appearance of the design.

The board then discussed the necessity of the garage and driveway, highlighting the street’s parking difficulties. The representative argued that the addition would alleviate parking issues, especially those caused by nearby bar patrons. The proposed house size of around 950 square feet was described as “about as small as you’d want to go from a house perspective,” and it was emphasized that this size would not be out of character with the area.

A minor side yard variance for a chimney encroachment was also presented. The representative justified the two-foot encroachment by stating it would not obstruct pathways or negatively affect neighbors. The board inquired about the lot coverage of neighboring homes but lacked immediate data for comparison. The homeowner mentioned that the lot had been purchased 16 months prior, and the proposal had been adjusted based on community feedback.

Technical details were provided by a licensed professional engineer, who confirmed that stormwater management plans were pending but suggested that seepage pits would address roof runoff. The overall grading plan would be submitted with the building permit application.

The board summarized the variances under consideration, noting the property was undersized at 4,993 square feet compared to the required 7,500 square feet, and the lot width was insufficient at 50 feet when 75 feet was mandated. The side yard setback for the chimney was 8 feet instead of the required 10 feet, leading to a combined side yard setback of 18 feet instead of the necessary 20 feet.

The public comment period saw no residents expressing concerns, and the board moved to deliberation. A motion to approve the application was made, seconded, and confirmed through a roll call vote. The variances were approved, allowing the project to proceed.

Earlier in the meeting, the board addressed an application from CNW Infinity LLC for a property on Highway 9. The applicant’s attorney, Mr. Paige, requested to carry the application over to the next month due to an incomplete board. The hearing was postponed to September 25, 2024, with no further notice required.