Zoning board approves variance for 176 Richmond St. addition to house disabled veteran

The Taunton Zoning Board of Appeals on Nov. 7 approved a variance allowing a 744-square-foot addition at 176 Richmond Street that reduces the side setback from 25 feet to 12.3 feet.

The variance request, filed as Case 3823 Stanton, was presented to the board to permit a partial in‑law unit that the petitioner said would allow daily assistance for Thomas Janek, whom the petitioner described as "a disabled Vietnam veteran" who lives in Taunton. The petitioner told the board that a recent septic system upgrade, steep rear slope and nearby wetlands limit usable yard space and prevent moving the septic farther back on the lot.

City planning staff reported no conservation issues and said the existing septic system is rated at 440 gallons per day, which permits a four-bedroom dwelling; staff noted that if the addition increases total bedrooms an upgrade or a new septic system might be required. The planner also said that any approved addition must meet Title 5 regulations and that all dwellings must comply with the state sanitary code, chapter 2. There were written letters of support on file from neighbors Brian McDonald and Linda McDonald (190 Richmond St.), Matthew Boyle (160 Richmond St.) and Courtney and Mike Stand.

During public input two supporters spoke; no one opposed the request. A motion to approve the variance carried on a roll-call vote: John—yes; George—yes; Steve—yes; Craig—yes. The chair and staff told the petitioner to contact Denise for follow-up. The board noted a 20-day waiting period following the decision before permits may be issued.

The petitioner said the proposed in‑law area would be limited in size (the petitioner stated about 190 square feet of living area would be part of the addition) and that constructing the addition at the proposed location would avoid removing existing parking and avoid extensive excavation near the front of the house. The board approved the variance as requested.