In a recent government meeting, representatives for a family seeking to renovate a long-held property presented their case for bulk variance relief. The applicants, Melissa Friedman Steele and Michael Steele, aim to transform a 0.61-acre parcel located in the R-5T zone, which has been unoccupied for over four years, into their forever home.

Anthony Turo, representing the applicants, highlighted the property's significance, noting that it was built by Friedman Steele's grandparents in the 1960s and has been a family fixture. The couple intends to revitalize the existing two-story single-family home while retaining much of its structure, accommodating their young family and honoring its legacy.

The meeting included testimonies from various professionals, including architects and engineers, who will provide insights into the proposed renovations and site improvements. The board members were invited to ask questions before the first witness, Melissa Friedman Steele, introduced herself alongside her husband.

This project not only represents a personal milestone for the Steele family but also reflects broader themes of community and heritage, as they seek to breathe new life into a property with deep familial roots. The board's decision on the variance request will be pivotal in determining the future of this cherished home.