ZBA approves lot-variance package for 1795 West River Road to allow buildable lot

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted Jan. 8, 2026 to grant a package of variances at 1795 West River Road that the board said would convert a preexisting nonconforming parcel into a buildable lot.

Attorney Robert Radozak described a plan to acquire a 0.3-acre corner parcel and said the adjustment would allow septic placement and a modest house without creating a large structure. Board members acknowledged the lot is an older, preexisting nonconforming parcel and several said the proposed change would remove an eyesore and be an improvement to the neighborhood. The board approved three separate variances — required street frontage (40-foot variance), lot depth (25-foot variance) and minimum lot area (2.25-acre variance) — by successive motions and voice votes after motions by John Brattle and seconds from other members.

Board members who voted in favor cited hardship created by limited frontage and the practical benefit of making a currently underused lot buildable; members did not record conditions beyond standard building-department permitting and inspections.