ZBA grants special exception for Clearwater Lodges addition with septic condition

The Wolfeboro Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a special exception June 2 for a 30-by-40 addition to an existing building at Clearwater Lodges, 704 North Main Street (tax map 142-009). The addition will house laundry facilities, a bathroom for seasonal staff and storage.

Applicant Annie DeBier described the project and said construction would occur outside the busy season — after Columbus Day and before Memorial Day — to limit impact on seasonal cottages. The board conducted a site visit earlier the same day and determined the lot has adequate space for the structure and that the addition would not be visible from the road.

The board reviewed the special-exception criteria, including site suitability, neighborhood impact, traffic and availability of services. Board members noted the property currently uses holding tanks for cabins and that the applicant would need an approved septic system for the new laundry/bathroom use. Neighbor Mike Hodder (Harder Trust) submitted a letter in support of the application; the record also included site-visit notes from the board.

The board approved the special exception with conditions that the applicant obtain any required federal and state permits and the town building permit prior to construction, that the notice of decision be recorded at the Carroll County Registry of Deeds, and that the variance be exercised within two years or as extended under RSA. During deliberations board member Audrey Klein asked that a New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services–approved septic system appropriate for the proposed use be installed prior to operation; the board included that requirement as a condition.

Ryan read appeal rights and outlined the statutory appeal process the decision triggers.