0:00A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing Clyde Auto Recycling’s application, which has been in deliberation since the previous summer. Peter Claus, representing the applicant, provided an update, explaining that after the withdrawal of their previous contractor due to health issues, a new contractor had been secured. This development included obtaining signed and sealed plans, a necessary step toward acquiring a building permit. However, the project’s progress hinges on obtaining a Road Opening Permit from the county, an essential requirement before the issuance of a building permit due to the involvement of a county road.

Clyde Cameron from Clyde Auto Recycling assured the board that efforts were underway to comply with the permit requirements. He mentioned steps, such as securing quotes and paying a deposit to the new contractor. The board’s engineer, Jay Cornell, emphasized the critical nature of the permit application process, which would culminate in the county issuing a letter confirming compliance with all conditions. Concerns were raised regarding the timeline for obtaining this letter, with a general understanding that the permit process was straightforward but time-sensitive. Recognizing the potential for delays, the board discussed granting an extension to the applicant, ultimately proposing a two-month extension to April 30, 2025, to allow sufficient time for the necessary procedures and contingencies, such as weather and contractor availability.

The meeting’s second focal point was the Eco Engines application, which sought approval for a new sign at their location on Washington Road. Represented by Michael Paige, Eco Engines requested variances for the sign’s size, height, and illumination, as well as a waiver for site plan requirements. Charles Hy Jr. of Eco Engines LLC testified that they had continued operating the property as an auto service station since its acquisition in July 2022.

15:48Board members engaged with the applicant’s representatives to clarify details about the sign, including its dimensions and illumination specifics. The proposed sign, designed to be visible from the curbside, would utilize backlit LED lighting for the lettering. A point of discussion was the sign’s brightness during nighttime hours, with board members expressing concerns about potential light pollution. The applicant agreed to obtain a lumen count from the manufacturer and assured the board that the sign would be completely off by 10 PM, alleviating concerns about its impact after business hours.

Historical signage regulations for service stations and garages were considered, with references made to previous signage precedents in the area. The board evaluated the proposed sign’s aesthetics and its fit within the community’s visual landscape. Some board members suggested the sign could remain illuminated later into the night to attract potential customers driving by after hours. However, they ultimately recommended that the sign dim to its lowest setting from 10 PM to 4 AM to minimize disruption.

After thorough deliberation, the board moved to approve the application, including the requested variances, with an understanding that zoning officials would monitor compliance with the brightness conditions.

Subsequently, the board reviewed resolutions for previous applications, including those from Insight Development Partners LLC and Jack Novak, both of which were approved unanimously.

In addition to the primary topics, the board approved the minutes from the previous meeting without opposition and addressed the annual zoning board report prepared by John Barry. A motion to approve the report for submission to the mayor and council was made and passed without dissent.