Applicant granted one-year variance to host one-day art show at 189 Center Street

Kylie Owen was granted a one-year variance on April 23, 2026 to hold a one-day art show at 189 Center Street in Yarmouthport.

Owen, who identified herself as the applicant, told the board she plans a free event from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. featuring four artists — her mother, her sister and two additional Massachusetts-based artists — with on-site parking and volunteers to guide cars. She said she hoped to offer complimentary food and beverage via catering but understood that liquor licensing and permanent signage would require separate approvals.

The board described the proposed H11 retail use as prohibited in the R40 district and explained that relief would normally come by special permit or, if hardship is shown, by variance. Chair Sean Igo and other members said they believed Owen presented a low-risk inaugural event but expressed concern about allowing a recurring prohibited use in a residential district. "I could support a one-year variance that would just be for this year alone," Chair Sean Igo said during deliberations.

Anthony moved to grant a one-year variance as requested; John seconded. The board took a roll-call vote and approved the motion 4–0 (Anthony — yes; Barbara — yes; John — yes; Chair Sean Igo — yes). The board emphasized the decision does not authorize signage, liquor service or a permanent change of use; Owen was told to record the written decision with the town clerk and, after the 20-day appeal period, at the registry of deeds.

The variance allows the applicant to stage the proposed event in September (applicant cited Sept. 12 with a rain date of Sept. 19). The board encouraged Owen to use the one-year period to evaluate neighbors’ responses and, if she wishes to continue or expand the activity, to pursue a property where the use is allowed by special permit or return to the board with additional documentation.

Procedural next steps: the board will file a written decision with the town clerk; the 20-day technical appeal period must elapse before the variance can be recorded at the registry of deeds and considered final.