Zoning Board Approves Controversial Four Lot Subdivision Plan

In a recent government meeting, the zoning board addressed several key items, including the status of a variance petition for a property located at 390 Daniel Webster Highway, which was deemed moot following the granting of a previous variance. The board unanimously agreed to this motion, allowing them to move forward with other agenda items.

The primary focus of the meeting was a variance request from CoNote LLC for a subdivision at 103 Severance Bridge Road. The petitioner sought to subdivide the property into four lots, each with varying frontages that do not meet the 200-foot requirement set by local zoning ordinances. The proposed frontages are 111.38 feet, 120.95 feet, 103.3 feet, and 30.85 feet.

Matt Peterson, representing the petitioner, explained that the new layout was developed in response to feedback from the town's Department of Public Works (DPW), which preferred shared driveways over the construction of a new public road. This approach aims to minimize environmental impact and reduce maintenance costs for the town. Peterson emphasized that the proposed plan would result in a 39.5% reduction in tree cutting compared to the original plan, preserving more of the natural landscape.

The board discussed the merits of the variance, highlighting that it would not adversely affect the character of the neighborhood or public safety. The shared driveways are expected to enhance safety by reducing the number of curb cuts on the public street. Additionally, the proposal aligns with the town's goals of preventing overcrowding and ensuring adequate access to properties.

Peterson outlined the criteria for granting the variance, arguing that it would not diminish property values and would provide substantial justice by allowing reasonable development without imposing additional burdens on the town. The board members engaged in discussions about the implications of the proposal, with a consensus emerging around the benefits of the shared driveway approach.

As the meeting concluded, the board prepared to vote on the variance request, with members expressing a clear understanding of the proposal's potential impact on the community and the environment. The outcome of this vote will determine the future development of the Severance Bridge Road property.