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ZBA continues Beechwood Road deck case and schedules site visit after neighbor objections
Summary
The ZBA continued review of a built deck at 73 Beechwood Road after a neighbor objected to its proximity to the property line; the board agreed to a site visit and continued the hearing to Aug. 25 with the applicant’s consent to an extension.
The Braintree Zoning Board of Appeals on July 28 continued the hearing on petition 251573 for a rear/side deck at 73 Beechwood Road and agreed to a site visit after a neighbor submitted a letter of opposition. The applicant, Logan Brown, said the deck provides needed access to the backyard and that retaining-wall constraints limit options.
The clerk read the legal notice: the applicant seeks a finding under the zoning ordinance (Ch. 135 §§403(a) and 701) because the addition and deck encroach on a western side-yard setback to 0.3 feet where 10 feet is required. A neighbor letter noted the deck was too close and reported items falling onto their property from wind. The applicant explained the lot has a large grade change and an existing retaining wall that prevents lowering the deck.
Board members expressed concern about the deck’s proximity to the property line and agreed a site visit would help the panel evaluate the safety and sight-line issues. Staff recommended a site visit, noting the neighbor indicated an approximately 6-foot fence and other relevant field conditions.
Outcome: The board voted to continue the public hearing to the August 25 meeting and to schedule a site visit. The applicant consented to a written extension to permit the continuance.
Speakers included board members Reina Rubin, Jose Perez, Angela Kavanaugh and Tom Cleaver; applicant Logan Brown (with Christie Goodman); and planning staff. The matter remains under review pending the site visit and additional review by staff.
