Residents of the Town of Clinton are set to see a new addition to a local home after the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) approved a variance request during their meeting on September 18, 2025. Dana Kilgore, a homeowner on Story Lane, sought permission to construct a bedroom and bathroom addition on the south side of her house, requiring a variance to reduce the side setback from the standard 50 feet to 5 feet.

The board discussed the request, noting that the property’s unique topography made it challenging to place the addition elsewhere on the lot. The ZBA emphasized that the request was practical and not extraordinary, as the property is already nonconforming. The planning board had initially recommended a setback of 48.6 feet, which was deemed too close, leading the ZBA to proceed with Kilgore's original request for a 5-foot variance.

In addition to the variance approval, the board stipulated that the certificates of occupancy for two existing structures on the property must be verified and granted before construction begins. This decision reflects the board's commitment to ensuring compliance with local regulations while accommodating the needs of residents.

The approval of this addition is expected to enhance the living space for Kilgore and her family, demonstrating the ZBA's willingness to support community development while maintaining zoning standards. As the project moves forward, it will be closely monitored to ensure all conditions are met, paving the way for a successful expansion of the home.