The Zoning Board of Adjustment convened on October 10, 2023, with a smaller-than-usual attendance of three members, which raised concerns about the potential for tied votes on pending applications. The meeting began with a roll call and a reminder that any decisions made would require unanimous agreement among the members present.

The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting after minor amendments were made regarding the denial of a special exception for short-term lodging and clarifications on the reasoning behind a variance denial.

A key item on the agenda was a request for a six-month extension for a variance at 156 Eastman Shore Road. The applicant, who had previously received a variance to construct a screen porch and repair a deck, explained that delays due to COVID-19 and significant tax increases had hindered progress. The board unanimously approved the extension, allowing the applicant to keep options open for future construction.

Next, the board heard a proposal from a resident at 66 Layton Avenue seeking a variance to add a deck closer to the lake. The applicant detailed recent renovations to the property, including raising the roof and replacing windows, which necessitated the addition of a deck for access. With no objections from neighbors, the board granted the variance, citing the alignment with neighborhood aesthetics and the absence of public interest concerns.

The meeting continued with a request from a representative for 1165 Weirs Boulevard, who sought variances for two proposed additions to a unit within a condominium complex. The applicant explained the need for additional space and clarified that while they had not yet secured formal approval from the condo association, informal support had been indicated by several members. The board discussed the implications of the proposed setbacks and the existing conditions of the property. Ultimately, the board expressed a willingness to consider the application further, pending additional documentation from the condo association.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the next scheduled session, encouraging applicants to prepare adequately to avoid delays in their projects.