Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting - April 30, 2026

May 4, 2026 YouTube

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on April 30, 2026, primarily involved continued public hearings for two major development projects. The first was a special permit application (ZSP25-6) for a 576-square-foot addition to a non-conforming structure at 8 Bono Court. The applicant's representative, Christian Fallon, argued that the proposal, which sought relief from the 20-foot front setback to 11.9 feet from a paper street, was consistent with the dense, non-conforming character of the unique neighborhood. Numerous abutters spoke in strong opposition, citing concerns about increased density, traffic on the narrow private road, safety issues from blocked sightlines, and the potential for increased short-term rental activity, which they felt would be detrimental to their community's quality of life. After extensive public comment and board discussion, the hearing was continued to June 11th to allow board members to conduct a site visit. The second major item was the continued hearing for the Sherbrook Farms comprehensive permit (ZCMP-25-2), a 156-unit rental housing project under Chapter 40B at 498 Old Westport Road. The board reviewed technical comments from the DPW Director, Tim Barber, and peer review consultants regarding the site plans, landscaping, lighting, and traffic mitigation measures, including the installation of crosswalks and ADA ramps at the intersection with Lucy Little Road. The peer review of the project's impact on sewer and water infrastructure was still underway, necessitating more time. Abutters raised concerns about the loss of existing visual screening, lighting impacts, and the location of a potential school bus stop. The board voted to continue the hearing to June 8th to allow for the completion of the peer review. The board also continued an administrative matter for First Dartmouth LLC regarding "The Preserve at Dartmouth" project to May 21st and approved numerous sets of meeting minutes.

AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Watch the video to verify.