The Wells Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on November 13, 2023, focused on a significant variance request from local residents James Shaw and Rachel McKee. The couple seeks permission to build a two-car garage addition, complete with a breezeway and additional living space, at their home located near the Agoncourt River.

Support for the variance was voiced by neighboring residents, including Dawn Anderson, who highlighted the inconsistency in setback regulations along the river. Anderson pointed out that while the current law mandates a 200-foot setback on one side, it allows for a 75-foot setback on the opposite side, questioning the rationale behind such discrepancies. She noted that the Shaw-McKee home is already within the 200-foot limit established before the law changed, emphasizing that their proposed construction would not encroach further toward the river.

Another neighbor, Michael Ramekowitz, also expressed his support, describing the couple as good neighbors and advocating for their ability to expand their home. Ramekowitz underscored the challenges faced by families in the area due to rising housing costs, framing the variance as a positive step for community stability.

Despite the community backing, the code enforcement office presented a cautious stance, referencing existing ordinances that led to the initial denial of the building permit. The board will deliberate on the matter further, weighing the community support against regulatory guidelines.

As the board prepares for its decision, the outcome of this variance request could set a precedent for future developments along the river, balancing community needs with adherence to zoning laws. The next steps will involve further discussions and a final ruling on the proposal.