The meeting’s central topic was the board’s approval of a variance for a proposed 843-square-foot addition to the rear of a residential property on Harris Road. The homeowner, Jacob Dick, presented his case, indicating that the expansion was necessary to accommodate his growing family, which had recently increased with the addition of two children. The existing structure, a three-bedroom, one-bath home, was deemed insufficient for the family’s needs.

During the presentation, the homeowner plans to add a living room, dining room, an additional bedroom with walk-in closets, and a second bathroom, while maintaining the exterior’s cohesive appearance. A key point of the discussion was the demolition of an existing playroom to improve access to the rear of the property. The expansion would not be visible from the street, thereby ensuring it blended seamlessly with the existing home. The lot, described as a rectangular parcel, measures 50 feet wide by 192 feet deep, with a substantial green space at the rear, backing onto a wooded area.

A significant portion of the dialogue centered on stormwater management concerns, with the board and the applicant acknowledging the potential for increased runoff due to the proposed addition. The site currently has a 133% coverage, within the zoning code’s allowance of 177%. The presence of storm drains and existing vegetation, including trees that could aid in water absorption, was noted. The engineering department will review the proposal to ensure adequate stormwater mitigation measures, such as dry wells or sump pumps, are implemented if necessary.

Concerns were raised about the visual impact of the addition, specifically regarding the matching of the existing light blue vinyl siding. The homeowner committed to maintaining the aesthetic continuity of the property. The addition’s design is intended to improve the site’s layout and spacing, increasing the distance between the applicant’s house and neighboring properties.

A public hearing allowed community members to voice their opinions. One resident, personally connected to the property, expressed support for the addition, highlighting the positive impact of families investing in the neighborhood rather than opting for teardowns. The proposal was generally well-received by board members, who viewed it as part of a broader trend towards home expansion rather than demolition.

The board also discussed the broader implications of FAR variances and the need for properties to accommodate challenges associated with not meeting FAR standards. Considerations included light, air, open space, and stormwater management. The approval of the variance was contingent upon meeting these criteria, with an emphasis on preserving the neighborhood’s character and preventing additional runoff problems.

The board concluded the meeting with a unanimous vote to approve the variance, with members acknowledging the applicant’s efforts to enhance the property while maintaining neighborhood aesthetics.