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Conservation Commission backs variance for in-ground pool at 22 Green Meadow Lane
Summary
The Bedford Conservation Commission recommended approval of a variance to allow a 34-by-16-foot in-ground pool to be built 42.8 feet from a wetland edge, inside the 50-foot wetland setback; commissioners cited mitigation measures and small footprint.
The Bedford Conservation Commission recommended approval Feb. 25 of a variance to allow a homeowner to construct an in-ground pool at 22 Green Meadow Lane within the town's 50-foot wetland setback.
The commission's vote followed a presentation by applicant Kevin Jefferon, who described the proposed pool as "a 34 by 16 foot pool, fairly shallow, no deeper than 5 and a half feet," and said the work would "impact a minimal amount inside the setback" (exhibit and staff report on file with the planning office).
Why it matters: The town's wetlands regulations establish a 50-foot non-disturbance buffer along wetlands; variances are reviewed by the Conservation Commission and recommended to the appropriate permitting authority. The homeowner and staff described measures intended to limit harm to the nearby wetland, and commissioners said the application provided the typical mitigation the commission expects.
Details of the proposal and staff review: According to the staff report, the proposed pool would result in about 164 square feet of disturbance within the setback. The applicant told the commission the pool and a paver surround were sited as close to the house as practical to minimize intrusion and that contractors will maintain erosion and sediment controls during construction. The homeowner also said he would keep 10 to 15 feet of natural vegetation beyond the fence line intact and install an automatic cover on the pool to reduce evaporation and wildlife risk.
Staff noted that the property contains a seasonally wet area beyond the applicant's shed but said state and local records do not indicate the presence of protected species at the work area. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the paver area and about construction inside the existing fenced yard; the applicant confirmed all proposed work is within the fenced area.
Outcome: A motion to recommend approval of the variance from Article 4, Section 275-28A — allowing construction within 42.8 feet of the wetland edge where 50 feet is required — carried on an affirmative voice vote. The commission recorded the motion and a second and responded "aye" on the roll call; the staff file contains the full motion language and the draft minutes.
Looking ahead: The commission's recommendation will be included in the permit record; any required town or state permits and conditions will be set by the permitting authority as the project proceeds.
