The meeting’s primary focus was the application from Timothy and Lisa Herbert, who sought a special permit to build an accessory apartment intended for Timothy’s mother. The proposed construction, located in the RB3 zoning district, included a garage and would be situated between the existing house and a pool. The Planning Board had already expressed support, anticipating that the future zoning changes would make such units permissible by right.

The Board of Health stipulated key conditions for the project, notably the installation of a new septic system with a multi-compartment tank, stressing the need for compliance with health regulations. A unique deed restriction that limited the property to four bedrooms was also discussed, though its rationale prompted questions among the board members.

The board members and the applicant discussed the layout and spatial considerations of the property, confirming that the proposed addition met zoning bylaw requirements, such as the maximum floor area for the apartment. The applicant assured the board that the planned accessory apartment would not exceed 800 square feet or 35% of the principal residence’s floor area.

Traffic flow and neighborhood aesthetics were significant considerations. The board concluded that the project would not disrupt the visual appeal of the area since the addition would be positioned behind the existing house. With no objections from neighboring residents and no abutters present at the meeting, the board determined that the project would not negatively impact the neighborhood.

Environmental concerns, particularly those related to sewage disposal and water quality, were addressed. The Board of Health’s approval of the sewage disposal plan and the presence of underground electric lines reassured the board members that utilities and environmental impact were adequately considered. The flat nature of the lot was noted to mitigate any potential runoff issues.

The board voted on a motion to grant the special permit, referencing the findings of fact and relevant regulations. They decided against including a specific deed restriction in the motion, relying instead on the building department’s records to manage septic system sizes. The motion passed unanimously.

The board also discussed the expiration of the special permit, ultimately deciding not to include an expiration date in the motion, while acknowledging the upcoming zoning changes in January that would make accessory apartments a right.

Procedural steps followed the approval, including the requirement to file the decision with the town clerk within 14 days and a subsequent 20-day appeal period. After this period, the applicant would obtain a letter from the town clerk confirming no appeals were filed, allowing the decision to be recorded at the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds and enabling the applicant to obtain a building permit.

In other business, the board reviewed and approved the minutes from the March 27, April 10, and April 17 meetings without discussion. Correspondence updates included non-compliance issues on Mason Road, with inspections confirming that the applicant was expected to comply with the Board of Health conditions.

Discussions also covered updates to the floodplain bylaw, necessitated by modifications to FEMA maps to maintain compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. The board emphasized the importance of aligning these updates with the upcoming spring town meeting to ensure residents could continue to access flood insurance.