Somerset council approves permit for screened porch, removes hazardous tree and introduces Charter Day; fee schedule amended

At its March 2 meeting the Somerset Town Council approved a handful of routine but consequential items.

Permit for screened porch: The council voted to approve a building‑permit application submitted by Virginia Murphy to screen an existing covered porch at 5528 Trent Street. Town staff said the screening would not increase impervious surface and the resulting lot coverage would remain below the 35% maximum. The applicant said the work is intended to reduce mosquito issues and presented a mock‑up before the council.

Public tree removal: Acting on the town arborist’s recommendation, the council approved removal of a damaged public red maple at 4822 Dorset Avenue after the tree sustained significant branch and trunk damage in recent storms. The town manager explained that the arborist considered the tree hazardous.

Charter Day ordinance: Councilors introduced an ordinance to designate an April Charter Day; the council president proposed and the council accepted an amendment removing a final whereas clause judged inappropriate for the short ceremonial measure. The ordinance was introduced and will be publicized.

Permit fee schedule: The council voted to amend the permit‑fee and exhibit schedule to add a recreational‑camp section to the schedule. Councilors noted fees can be adjusted before the season if needed.

Votes on those items were recorded by voice; detailed roll‑call tallies were not recorded in the transcript excerpt.