Board approves Berlin Lions Club plan to replace aging lodge building

The Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals on March 12 approved a special exception for the Berlin Lions Club to replace its existing lodge building at 9039 Worcester Highway.

A representative for the club said the organization has occupied the site for decades and that the current building is in poor condition. The representative presented Google Earth imagery, photographs and a 3‑D rendering showing that the new building would be sited adjacent to the existing structure while parking would occupy the footprint of the old building. A registered professional architect testified that the replacement would be in harmony with the neighborhood and would not create noise, fumes, or other objectionable impacts.

Staff comments identified two items to address: an independent septic evaluation (completed and provided) and a conservation plan (arranged with a registered professional surveyor). The applicant said those items had been, or would be, completed.

After board discussion the chair opened the matter for a motion; the board voted to accept Case 26‑14 as presented. The vote was recorded on the record in favor of the special exception.

The approval allows the club to proceed with the planned replacement structure subject to any standard permitting and inspection requirements. The applicant emphasized continuity of the Lions Club mission and submitted materials documenting the historic presence of the club in the community.