Orwell DRB approves two‑lot minor subdivision; board will review driveway‑standards waiver request

The Orwell Development Review Board approved Permit 3‑4‑26 as a two‑lot minor subdivision at its April 15, 2026, meeting after a deliberative session and a voice vote.

Justin Hall, the applicant, told the board the proposal would create two lots and said the parcel had not been subdivided in the previous three years. Cian moved to approve the application as a Minor Subdivision; Gary seconded. The board voted by voice to approve the motion (voice vote recorded as 3‑0).

The approval followed a short public comment period in which Paul Stone, a member of the public, asked whether the local driveway regulation — which references Agency of Transportation standards for stone depth and width — could be waived for properties. Dan (Chair) responded that the board would look into the question, directing staff or the board to clarify whether and how those standards could be relaxed in specific cases. That review was described as an information request rather than a formal change to the town’s standards.

Board members also recorded one item of old business: David Martin’s Permit #8‑44‑25 was continued to the May meeting because the applicant was not present. Gary moved to adjourn and Cian seconded; the board approved adjournment by voice vote 3‑0.

The DRB’s action to approve Permit 3‑4‑26 is a ministerial land‑use decision permitting the two‑lot subdivision as presented; no conditions, variances or waivers were recorded in the minutes. Any future change to driveway specifications or formal waiver procedure would require a separate agenda item or administrative action.