03:16The primary focus of the meeting was the application from Daryl Grafton, who sought variances for his property on Lake View Street. Grafton requested a front setback variance of 65 feet and a side setback variance of 2 feet to convert his existing carport into a garage. The proposal also included the addition of a 10-foot by 10-foot shed behind the garage. Scott Tusy, the contractor representing Grafton, clarified the building plans, emphasizing that the carport’s footprint would remain unchanged and that the shed would connect to the garage with an internal doorway.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the structural integrity and design of the new garage and shed. Grafton and Tusy reassured the board that the existing carport was sound, having been built in 2014 as part of a larger renovation. The board and applicants addressed concerns about the structure’s height, with Grafton initially misstating it but later confirming that the garage would exceed 8 feet due to the elevated pad resulting from the lot’s slope.

26:52An interesting aspect of the meeting was the clarification of the lot’s configuration. The property was described as a “long narrow lot” with a “right away” complicating its classification. The board discussed the topography, noting a steep slope at the back of the lot, which limited usability and emergency vehicle access. The presence of a wire fence along the property line was also highlighted, with plans to replace it with a white vinyl fence.

19:23The board deliberated on the carport’s original compliance with zoning laws. Grafton expressed surprise at the current 75-foot setback requirement, having only measured a 65-foot distance himself. This raised questions about whether a variance had been granted when the carport was initially built. The board acknowledged the challenges faced by properties near the lake, where many do not conform to current zoning laws.

After examination and discussion, the board moved to grant the requested variances. These included a front setback variance of 65 feet, a side setback variance of 2 feet, a lot area variance of 34,000 square feet, and a lot frontage variance of 53 feet. The motion received a second and was unanimously approved. The board outlined the next steps, which involved filing a written decision with the town clerk, where it would remain for 20 days before construction could commence.

23:35The meeting also touched on procedural elements, such as how the applicant would be notified about the decision. Grafton expressed concerns about mail efficiency, prompting the board to assure him that he could pick up the decision in person once it was signed. The board also reminded Grafton to consult with the building inspector before proceeding with any major actions.

Aside from the main agenda, the board reviewed minutes from a previous meeting held on May 12. A motion to accept these minutes was made and approved unanimously. Additionally, a member of the board shared receiving a “historic building survey” from 1988, prompting a brief discussion about the historical significance of properties in the area. This included properties like the one on Mining Hill Road, highlighting the potential impact of historical documents on zoning and development decisions.