A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposal by homeowners Johnny Nunes and Christian Bolerio to install a six-foot vinyl fence in their backyard on Christ Street. The application sought to replace an existing chain link fence with a solid vinyl structure. However, the board identified multiple issues with the proposal, starting with discrepancies between the submitted plans and the legal notice, specifically concerning the fence’s placement relative to property lines and the curb on Henry Street.

The board expressed significant safety concerns related to the fence potentially obstructing visibility for drivers, particularly for those exiting neighboring driveways. The removal of a row of trees that previously provided some visual screening further exacerbated these visibility issues. A board member highlighted the potential danger, noting that vehicles might be unable to see incoming traffic if the proposed fence was installed as planned. There was also confusion about the exact property lines, with the board underscoring that the new fence could not be erected on a retaining wall that might not be on the homeowners’ property.

Further complicating the proposal was the presence of an above-ground swimming pool on the property, which was neither included in the initial survey nor properly fenced according to safety regulations. The board pointed out the ordinance requirement for a fence around a pool, raising concerns about potential liability and safety hazards, especially for children. The absence of adequate fencing around the pool prompted the board to urge the homeowners to take immediate action, such as draining the pool, to prevent accidents.

Throughout the discussions, the board stressed the importance of clear and accurate documentation. They noted that the application initially proposed a fence setback of ten feet from the property line, which later shifted to a zero-foot setback without corresponding updates in the documentation. The board was unequivocal that they could not approve the proposal as presented, citing the need to adhere to the twenty-foot setback requirement from the curb as stipulated by local ordinances.

Additionally, the board advised Nunes and Bolerio to collaborate with a fencing contractor to develop a revised plan that aligns with zoning regulations and addresses the safety concerns raised. They also recommended consulting with neighbors to ensure any new proposal would not adversely impact the surrounding community.

In another application, property owner Terry Hotter received approval for constructing an 18-foot-high garage on Roma Street, which would include a second story for storage and a golf simulator. The board unanimously approved this application after confirming there would be electricity but no plumbing installed in the garage. The project required variances for both height and area, as the proposed garage exceeded the zoning regulation limits of 15 feet in height and 150 square feet in area.