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Saratoga Springs design board approves demolition of small outbuilding at 19 George St., continues debate over proposed garage
Summary
The Design Review Board approved demolition of a non‑historic accessory structure at 19 George Street but did not finalize the new garage design; board members and neighbors sparred over tree preservation, driveway layout and whether the garage should sit at the rear of the lot.
The Saratoga Springs Design Review Board on Wednesday approved demolition of a small, non‑historic structure at 19 George Street but left the proposed detached garage and driveway plan unresolved.
Board chair (Design Review Board) moved to approve the demolition and the board classified the project as a SEQR Type II action; the motion was seconded by Mr. Bennett and the chair announced, "All in favor? Any opposed? Alright. That motion passes." The board made clear the demolition was treated as separate from the larger construction proposal.
Why it matters: Neighbors and board members urged preservation of mature trees on the property and debated whether the proposed garage location — placed forward to avoid the dripline of a large sugar maple — is consistent with the neighborhood’s historic patterns. Several board members said they prefer garages to be sited to the rear or accessed by an alley when feasible.
Board discussion and…
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