When you must appear before a local appeals board hoping for approval for a project, the hearing is a big deal. You hope that you have all your documentation correct and ready, have all the answers to the questions that might be asked of you, and even sometimes sit with your fingers crossed hoping for quick approval. As for the board members, they also hope you have everything pulled together in proper order. No committee member likes being faced with problems or long, drawn-out hearings.
And so on December 12, the Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals was faced with a light agenda and very little to delay their returning to the warmth of their homes, and possibly even the smell of pine these mere 14 days before Christmas.
Coming before ZBA Chairman Richard Cutler and board members Randy Cabral, Davis Sullivan, Kirby Gilmore, David Arancio and Thomas Flynn were two applicants.
Richard Nash, 306 Walnut Plain Road, was seeking a variance to build a 30-foot by 40-foot three-car garage. His application was approved with the condition that the garage not be used for any living space or business activities.
Sean Crook, 201 Neck Road, sought a variance to build an oversized garage, swimming pool and hot tub. His application hearing was continued until January 8 as the board requested he return with a certified plot plan.
The next meeting of the Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled for January 8 at 7:00 pm in the Town Hall meeting room.
By Marilou Newell
