ZBA considers revised plans for 43 including concerns over tree impact

During a recent meeting of the Tree Advisory Committee in Nantucket, significant discussions centered around a proposed project that has raised concerns about its impact on local trees. The committee addressed the ongoing application from the owners of a property at 43, which includes plans that may affect a nearby tree due to the construction of a stairwell.

The meeting highlighted the decision to continue the discussion, allowing attorney Arthur Reed and the applicants time to revise their plans. The primary focus is on the stairwell, which committee members believe could negatively impact the tree. The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) will ultimately decide whether to deny the application or approve it with conditions aimed at protecting the tree.

Committee members expressed cautious optimism about the outcome, noting that the ZBA appeared prepared to deny the application if necessary. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing development needs with environmental considerations, particularly in a community where trees play a vital role in the local ecosystem.

As the applicants work on their revisions, the committee will be closely monitoring the situation. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future projects in Nantucket, emphasizing the need for careful planning that respects the town's natural resources. The next steps will depend on the applicants' willingness to modify their proposal and the ZBA's response to those changes.