2023-10-26-ZBA-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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A Board Member, Nyles N. Barnert, stated the elevation difference between Washington St and where the garage is located is substantial. He questioned if there would be a problem meeting maximum slope (No, it is fairly level. They have swept the driveway to the east to help keep it level). A Board Member, Martha C. Wood, stated she is curious about the impact on the trees in that area. She questioned if trees will be taken down (Mr. Smith reviewed the trees that will need to be removed). Chair, Ralph D. Clifford, questioned if the apartment itself is 1,000 square feet or if that includes the garage (It does not include the garage. There was confusion on the bylaws). Mr. Clifford stated his concern for the language in 135-6.7.4 which states the accessory apartment shall be designed to maintain the appearance and essential character of a one-family dwelling with accessory structures. The positioning is as far away from the house as possible, that is something that would not be likely for an accessory structure. It is also suggesting another single-family house. The location and design are concerning. He questioned if it was possible to make it look less house like (6 Adams St was discussed as an example. Ledge, water table and cost permitting they would like to pull it closer to the house). Mr. Clifford stated he is not against the idea of having an accessory apartment. This is the perfect location for it. There were no further questions from the Board. An audience member, Philip Coleman at 29 Eliot Rd, stated he reviewed the plan and stated his support. An audience member, John Langevin at 32 Percy Rd, stated his support. There were no further comments from the audience. Nora and Richard Wells, property owners of 9 Washing St, stated they have lived at the house for 40 years and would like to continue to reside there. They thought about this proposal a lot. The alternative is to sell the house and have a mansion built by a developer. Mr. Barnert stated he is satisfied with this proposal because the main house is more than three times the size of the apartment. Mr. Smith stated he hopes the Board support this proposal, it is a very important project. The Hearing was closed at 7:48 pm (a roll call vote was taken: Ralph D. Clifford– Yes, Norman P. Cohen– Yes, Martha C. Wood – Yes, James A. Osten – Yes and Nyles N. Barnert – Yes). A Board Member, Norman P. Cohen, questioned that if the location of the structure changes the applicant would have to come back to the Board. Mr. Clifford stated that is correct. It has to be built within substantial conformance of the plans submitted. If it is moving in any significant manor the Special Permit will have to be modified. Building Commissioner, James Kelly, stated if the building were to move away from the side yard setback, would the Board consider this substantial.