Page 201 - Microsoft Word - Annual Report 2016

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

In 2016 the Zoning Board of Appeals case load remained steady seeing 16 new case filings,
twelve (12) special permits, two (2) appeals of the Inspector of Buildings and two (2) variances.

The Zoning Board heard and granted five (5) special permits for accessory in-law apartments.
Subject to the grant of a special permit, the Zoning By-law allows for attached accessory in-law
apartments, not to exceed 1000 square feet in size or 25% of the gross square footage of the
home in size, whichever is less, in single family residence districts.

Other special permit included, two (2) wireless facility applications, three (3) additions on non-
conforming lots, one (1) for additional garage space and one (1) shared driveway.

The Board heard two (2) appeals of the Inspector of Buildings for the use of a trailer as living
space exceeding one year without a special permit. These two cases were continued into 2017.

The Board also had two applications for variances; both were subsequently withdrawn by the
applicant prior to the Board rendering a decision.

The Board was pleased to welcome Steve Merriam as an alternate member of the Board. Steve
brings a wealth of knowledge to the Board, having served the town in many capacities, most
recently as a member of the Planning Board. Barbara Jessel continues to serve as vice-chair and
David Peterson as clerk. There are two (2) unfilled alternate vacancies.

Under the Zoning By-law the Planning Board provides a recommendation on each appeal,
application or petition before the Zoning Board. The Board is pleased that Pat Canonica
continues to serve as the Planning Board liaison to the Zoning Board. Robyn Holt continues as
the Board's secretary.

The Board meets at 7:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month.

The Board has one case which continues to make its way through the U. S. District Court,
Massachusetts District.
Varsity Wireless. LLC v. Town of Boxford
Varsity Wireless is challenging a denial of a variance and special permit to construct a
monopine telecommunications facility at 12 Mortimer Road, under the Federal
Telecommunications Act. The Town is represented by special counsel in this matter.

Respectfully Submitted,
Paula Lia Fitzsimmons, Chair
Board Members
Paula Lia Fitzsimmons, Chair
Barbara Jessel, Vice Chair
David Peterson, Clerk
Steve Merriam, Alternate