HomeMy WebLinkAbout1967-12-31ANNUAL REPORT - 1967
December 31, 1967
It is nearly impossible in the space allotted to us to discuss
all of the problems and responsibilities of the Board of Appeals. The
record of our years activities is contained in Part II of this report
so we can devote this space to observations.
Since it was created in 1934 the volume and variety of the
Board's work has increased greatly but probably not more than for
other Lexington Boards and Committees. A Sign By -Law has been added
and Findings and Determinations are necessary in connection with newly
created zones. These require reasonable cooperation with the opinions
and decisions of the Planning Board and Historic Districts Commission.
The trend of changes in zoning presented to the Town Meeting seems to
be "subject to the approval of the Board of Appeals."
This Board has the triple responsibility of granting relief in
warranted cases, defending the Town against ill-considered requests and
checking the actions of other Boards and departments. It has consider-
able latitude in making decisions but must be sure they are justified
by our zoning, building and sign by --laws.
Whenever controversial petitions are heard it is nearly impossible
to please both sides. Perhaps that is why membership on the Board of
' Appeals is not an effort to win a popularity contest. Our members are
largely longtime servants of Lexington who have the desire to be fair
in making their decisions and who hold the development and maintenance
of the Town as their primary function.
We wish to express our sorrow at the death of our long-time member
Lewis L. Hoyt. We valued his sound opinions.
Donald E. Nickerson, Chairman
Charles T. Abbott
Howard H. Dawes
George C. Sheldon
George P. Wadsworth
PART II
The Board of Appeals scheduled 90 petitions during the year 1967.
Of these 3 were withdrawn by the respective petitioners, 8 were yearly
renewals and 79 were brought before the Board for hearing.
A list of these hearings and the decisions rendered are on record.
Serving on the Board of Appeals as Associate Members were Mrs. Ruth
Morey, Robert H. Farwell, Logan Clarke, Jr., J. Harper Blaisdell, Jr.,
Woodruff M. Brodhead and George W. Emery.
LEXINGTON BOARD OF APPEALS
Donald E. Nickerson, Chairman