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Board clears variance for generator and replacement A/C units at 78 Essex Road, citing minimal neighborhood impact
Summary
The Summit Zoning Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a request to replace two air‑conditioning condensers and install a standby generator at 78 Essex Road, finding the equipment will be screened and will not materially change neighborhood character; testing hours for the generator were limited.
The Summit Zoning Board of Adjustment on May 5 unanimously approved an application to replace two air‑conditioning condensers and add a standby generator at 78 Essex Road, saying the equipment will be sited in an already screened location and will not create a material nuisance for neighbors.
Applicant Everett Christiansen told the board he and his wife moved into 78 Essex in 2019 and sought the approvals after discovering existing condensers were sited inside the required side‑yard setback following a contractor’s permit application. The family also sought a generator for health and safety reasons.
Surveyor and engineer Andrew Clark described the lot as conforming in most respects but noted the dwelling and existing condensers sit closer than the ordinance’s required side yard; the proposed equipment largely occupies the same footprint and will be screened by an existing 6‑foot stockade fence and mature plantings between the house and the adjacent driveway. Clark said the new generator would add roughly 8 to 10 square feet of impervious area, well below thresholds that would trigger additional stormwater controls.
The applicant agreed to standard conditions: maintain screening, test the generator only during daytime hours allowed by ordinance, and replace or repair any screening unintentionally disturbed during installation. Board members pressed about locating the generator on the opposite side of the house; the applicant said the current location is nearest existing gas and electrical service and provides better visual screening.
Board members described the proposal as a straightforward c‑variance given the lawful existing location of the condensing units and the minimal intrusion of the proposed generator. The board approved the application by unanimous roll call (Malay, Steiner, Nelson, Yuko, Chifo, Feskins and Vice Chair Miriam Mazon voting yes).
The board noted building permits and final engineering inspections remain required.
