Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals met January 25, 2024. The meeting considered two public hearings involving residential properties and routine board business. First, Stephen and Alison Watt presented revised plans and Planning Board approval in support of a renewed request to convert 7 Old County Rd from a single-family to a two-family dwelling. The Board discussed whether the revisions constituted substantial changes from the previously denied application; the Watt applicants briefly displayed the new plans at the meeting. The Board voted unanimously to allow the Watts to reapply without prejudice (no application fee) at a future public hearing.

Second, David and Victoria Sherwood, represented by Attorney Paul Gagliardi, requested a Special Permit/Finding under Amesbury Zoning Bylaws Section IX.B to alter a pre-existing nonconforming parcel at 66B Lake Attitash Rd by adding a second floor and enlarging the rear deck (consolidating two decks into one). Discussion addressed parking, retaining the existing paved parking area, and potential impacts to abutters' water views and an existing right-of-way. Abutters raised concerns about the right-of-way and loss of view; the applicant and board noted the lot's historical configuration and that the proposed alterations would not create new encroachments. The Board concluded the project was in character with the neighborhood and unanimously approved the Special Permit. The Board also unanimously approved the 2024 meeting calendar with minor edits.