2019-04-11-ZBA-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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There was discussion if a condition could be made on parking. A Board Member, Norman P. Cohen, asked about parking location and asked if his neighbors approved of this (Mr. Cates explained their thinking of the parking situation and stated he did walk around to the neighbors houses and got generally positive feedback). Mr. Williams asked if he planned to finish the basement (Mr. Cates responded no). Basement access was clarified on the plans. Chair, Ralph D. Clifford, stated under Bylaw 6.7.4, the accessory apartment still needs to look like the type of accessory apartments that are typical in Lexington. He then asked Mr. Cates if he would be open to a redesign (Mr. Cates agreed). Associate Board Member, Nyles N. Barnert stated that the plans call it a guest house and wondered if it would be associated with an Airbnb (Mr. Cates responded they had no plans to rent it. Primary intention is pre-planning for parents to live there. It is possible to rent it though). Mr. Clifford asked for clarification if it would be a long term rental or more of an Airbnb (Mr. Cates Responded more of an Airbnb). Mr. Clifford stated this is not something the Board has encouraged in the past. The purpose of the Bylaw is to get additional housing in the Town. Mr. Clifford asked if it was something he will be willing to forego (Mr. Cates responded he didn't feel that was fair). An audience member, Stephania Beduschi, 64 Farmcrest Avenue, stated her house is on the driveway on right side and asked how it is going to get heated and cooled and if it be facing her house (Mr. Cates responded they will use a mini-split ductless system and they would locate it where it won't be a problem). Ms. Beduschi stated her bedrooms face the driveway so any noise coming from that side would impact her everyday life. Having A/C by the bedrooms would not be optimal. She expressed her concern for the proposed project and that it will impact her everyday life. She also has great concern on her property value because it's so close to her property line. This will lead to dramatic increase in activity. The past couple of years some neighbors have noticed an increase of activity at their house specifically of people in cars described as unfamiliar. She assumed it was family and friends, however, they found out the petitioners had been renting the house as an Airbnb on and off for 2 years. She felt neighbors should be informed out of courtesy. This could have a possible impact on safety and security. She requests the special permit to be denied. An audience member, John Spilewski, 63 Farmcrest Avenue, asked if there is there a percentage you can go up to that building can take on a lot and what is the distance building have to be on a lot line (Mr. Clifford stated it is compliant with all zoning by laws. It is 7 '/2 feet from the side yard). Mr. Williams again stated his concern for parking and he stated he would be very upset to find out if it is being used as an Airbnb.