Zoning Board hears appeal for Majestic Regency Resort building setback violation

In the quiet confines of Wells Town Hall, the Zoning Board of Appeals convened on May 12, 2025, to address a pressing issue concerning the Majestic Regency Resort. The evening's agenda centered around a public hearing for a mislocated building appeal, a matter that could significantly impact the resort's operations and future.

Sam Patel, the owner of the Majestic Regency Resort, stood before the board to explain the situation regarding a 1,232 square foot community hall that had been constructed within the required setback limits. According to town regulations, structures must be set back at least 15 feet from property lines, but this particular building was found to be only 10 feet from the buffer zone. The board's role was to determine whether to grant the appeal, which hinges on whether the misplacement was due to negligence or a misunderstanding of the zoning laws.

Patel clarified that the current ownership was unaware of the building's non-compliance, asserting that the structure's placement was established long before their acquisition of the property. "We didn’t build the building; we just bought the property as is," he stated, emphasizing that the oversight likely occurred under previous ownership. The board members listened attentively as Patel detailed the history of the property, noting that the building permit was issued in 1997, but the exact circumstances surrounding its placement remained unclear.

The board members engaged with Patel, seeking clarification on the building's proximity to the property line and confirming that only this particular structure was under review, as other buildings on the property predated current zoning regulations. The discussion also touched on the absence of a propane tank that had previously been located near the building, further illustrating the evolving nature of the site.

As the meeting progressed, the board members deliberated on the criteria necessary to grant the appeal, which included ensuring that the misplacement was not a result of willful negligence. With no conflicts of interest declared among the board members, the atmosphere remained focused on finding a resolution that balanced the interests of the resort with community regulations.

The outcome of this appeal could set a precedent for similar cases in Wells, highlighting the importance of understanding zoning laws and their implications for property owners. As the meeting concluded, the board's decision loomed large, promising to shape the future of the Majestic Regency Resort and its role within the Wells community.