In a recent meeting, the zoning board of appeals reviewed an application from James Co Development Inc. to subdivide a property located at 14 Loos Street and construct a new single-family home. The proposal involves splitting the existing lot, which currently houses a single-family home, into two separate lots—Lot A and Lot B—each approximately 8,131 square feet.

John Geary, representing the applicant, outlined the need for several variances under section 5.1 of the city’s zoning ordinance. Lot A, which contains the existing home, requires variance approval for full lot area and minimum lot area per dwelling unit. Meanwhile, Lot B, designated for the new construction, seeks variances for maximum floor area ratio and minimum lot area.

The existing home on Lot A is undergoing renovations and is set to be occupied by the applicant's daughter and her fiancé upon completion. The proposed new home on Lot B is designed as a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath Cape Cod style residence, featuring a farmer's porch and approximately 1,981 square feet of living space. Geary emphasized that the design aligns with the character of the surrounding neighborhood, which predominantly consists of single-family homes, although there are a few two-family residences nearby.

Geary provided evidence that the proposed lot sizes are consistent with neighborhood standards, noting that many nearby lots are smaller than the 10,000 square feet typically required. The board was presented with a site plan, floor plans, and a color rendering of the proposed home, which aims to enhance the aesthetic of the area.

The meeting highlighted the community ties of the applicants, who have a history of contributing to local charities and nonprofits. The board's decision on the requested variances will determine the future development of the property and its impact on the neighborhood.