Applicant withdraws pool variance request after board finds application incomplete

James Richards, of 141 South Main Street in Newton, withdrew his application for variances to install an above‑ground pool after the Zoning Board told him the filing was incomplete.

Richards said he needed the variance because his lot is narrow and constrained by a septic leach field: "I'm just looking for a variance so I can put it above ground. I'm kinda landlocked. I got a hardship because of where everything's located on the property," he told the board. Members said the packet lacked a certified plot plan, a complete abutters list and a scaled drawing showing decking, setbacks from the septic/leach field and neighboring properties. Staff and board members advised Richards to submit a certified plot plan and the required abutter notices; Richards indicated he would return with a corrected application but ultimately withdrew at the meeting.

Board members explained the next steps: a complete application would be reviewed for a preliminary determination; if complete, the item would be set for public hearing with notice to abutters and a newspaper notice as required by the board’s rules.