Zoning Board of Appeals — March 23, 2026
While the board voted unanimously on all matters, there was strong public interest and a high volume of community testimony regarding density and infrastructure impacts.
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At the March 23 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, the Board moved forward with a substantial modification to the Alden's Reach 40B project, approving the addition of 12 residential units and over 2 acres of land.
During the hearing, residents raised significant concerns that went beyond simple preference. Neighbors pointed to increased traffic on Kathleen, Donna, and Andrew's Way, potential strain on our aging water infrastructure, and the heightened wildfire risk due to the project's proximity to the Town Forest. There were also questions regarding whether the developer has the legal right to use town-owned land (Lot 7R2) for road construction.
The Board approved the request with ten conditions intended to mitigate these impacts, including requirements for road repaving and neighbor screening. However, the developer is still required to submit an updated water study to prove the existing pipes can handle the additional load and must provide proof of legal easement rights for the proposed secondary access road.
As these developments continue, it is vital to monitor whether these conditions are strictly enforced to protect our community's infrastructure and safety.
Public impact
Addition of 12 residential units and 2.12 acres to an existing development
The board approved the case with ten conditions, including specific road mitigation, easement protections, and neighbor screening.
The developer must provide an updated water study and proof of legal easement rights.
Topics discussed
The board addressed an administrative matter to endorse subdivision plans for the Bartlett Ponds Phase Two 40B project to allow for recording at the Registry of Deeds.
The matter was treated as an administrative item to finalize the official layout for the registry of deeds.
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Alden's Reach LLC requested a modification to their comprehensive permit to add 12 units and implement a veterans' housing preference.
The board moved to close the public hearing and enter into deliberations. The Board approved the case with ten total conditions, including easement protections, specific road mitigation, and neighbor screening.
The board will deliberate and formulate a decision with specific conditions.
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A request for a special permit to expand a pre-existing non-conforming structure by adding a third-story living space.
The Board voted unanimously to deny the permit without prejudice.
The applicant may reapply with design changes or fire safety improvements.
A request to raise and rebuild a pre-existing non-conforming single-family dwelling.
The Board unanimously approved the case with six conditions.
A request to demolish and reconstruct a pre-existing non-conforming structure.
The Board unanimously approved the case with eight total conditions.
A request for a special permit to construct a second-floor addition within a sideline setback and a floodplain overlay district.
The board unanimously approved the case subject to seven specific conditions.
Applicant expects word from FEMA regarding elevation reclassification in early April. The applicant may resolve the retaining wall/grading issue through an informal meeting or by providing a written easement.
A request for a special permit to reduce a side setback for a proposed pool house and gazebo at 4 Brown Bear Circle.
The applicant requested to withdraw the application without prejudice to allow for redesigning a smaller structure.
The applicant can reapply with revised, smaller plans at a later date.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Alden's Reach Substantial Modification Petition
Taylor Ave Expansion (Case 4205)
Pool House and Gazebo at 4 Brown Bear Circle (Case 4204)
Community vs. board tension
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
Member positions
Positions marked ~ are inferred from context and may not reflect the member's explicitly stated position. UNCLEAR means the vote was split but the record did not name how this member voted — it is not a “yes.”
From the meeting
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grok-4.3, gemma-4-26b, grok-4.20-0309-reasoning, grok-4-fast · analyzed 2026-07-10.
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