The Town of Stratford Zoning Board of Appeals convened on March 5, 2024, to address several key agenda items, including the election of a vice chair and a public hearing regarding a variance request for a property at 75 Fourth Avenue.

The meeting began with the election of a new vice chair. Andrea Lynch and Chris Poisson were nominated for the position. After a roll call vote, Chris Poisson was elected vice chair with three votes, while Andrea Lynch received two votes. The chair expressed appreciation for both candidates and their willingness to serve.

Following the election, the board moved into the administrative session, focusing on the public hearing for 75 Fourth Avenue. The board first voted to take the item off the table for discussion. A motion to approve the variance was made by Chris Poisson and seconded by Andrea Lynch. The discussion centered on the environmental impact of the proposed construction, particularly concerning the property's noncompliance with existing regulations.

Commissioner Michael Carroll raised concerns about the environmental implications of approving a noncompliant structure. The board reviewed the criteria necessary for granting a variance, including special circumstances related to the property and whether the hardship was self-created. Members discussed the unique characteristics of the land, including its proximity to a pond and the potential for flooding.

After thorough deliberation, the board agreed that the variance met the necessary criteria. They noted that the hardship was not self-created and that the proposed construction would not adversely affect neighboring properties. The board also discussed conditions to be imposed on the variance, including compliance with EPA and FEMA recommendations, and ensuring proper lighting and erosion controls.

Ultimately, the board voted unanimously to approve the variance for 75 Fourth Avenue, with conditions outlined during the meeting. The board then moved on to approve the minutes from the previous meeting held on February 6, 2024, which also passed unanimously.

The meeting concluded with a review of the coastal site plan for the same property, where the board recommended approval with the same conditions as the variance. The session highlighted the board's commitment to balancing community development with environmental considerations.