The Marion Zoning Board of Appeals on April 9 approved a Special Permit for Toll Brothers Inc. to maintain a pier for their 48-unit housing project.
In fact, Attorney David Callahan of Westborough said on behalf of the Toll Brothers that they plan to install floating docks for residents in that community to use the pier for small boating craft.
Callahan said that, since the town made some zoning changes two years ago, the pier is of non-conforming use. He said the pier will be altered with an anchor and there will be kayaks available. Owners must secure a spot to store a boat during the summer months but would be responsible for storing the boats elsewhere off season.
The Conservation Commission and the Planning Board took no issue with it, and a letter from then-Harbormaster Adam Murphy expressed approval of the project. Murphy said it does not pose any environmental impacts, and it is consistent with the town’s goal of expanding public use of town waterways.
Some ZBA members asked questions about storage and if there would be enough room – especially if 48 homeowners have boats. Project proponents said they do not expect that, but the docks will be more for smaller crafts such as kayaks.
Responding to ZBA questions, project proponents said that there will be railings for safety.
Earlier this year, the nationally based Toll Brothers took over the project. Last July, Toll Brothers representatives amended the site plan after some concerns were raised by the board pertaining mostly to traffic patterns and potential safety.
Five years ago, it was initially proposed as a 55-and-over development for townhouses and cottages, but it has been amended into a development of single-family homes.
This hearing was the lone item on agenda at the 23-minute meeting. The Marion Zoning Board of Appeals will meet again April 23.
Marion Zoning Board of Appeals
By Jeffrey D. Wagner