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Concord Zoning Board approves series of signage and setback variances; roundup of motions and votes
Summary
At its November meeting the Concord ZBA approved a bundle of variances — sign packages for downtown and retail sites, multiple residential setback variances, and an extension for a previously approved sign — summarized here with outcomes and next steps.
The Concord Zoning Board approved multiple sign and dimensional variances at its November meeting, acting on a mix of commercial wayfinding requests and residential setback cases.
Key outcomes (votes sourced from the meeting record):
- Advantage Signs (on behalf of Stephen Dupree): Board granted a one-time, one-year extension for an off-premise sign variance (motion passed; chair announced approval).
- Walter Dratner (conversion to two units at 8181 Village Street): Board granted two variances (lot-area and front-yard setback) to permit the conversion and adopt the applicant’s findings (motion carried 5–0).
- Arts Alley LLC / 20–22 South Main Street (Friendly Toast / rooftop venue): Board approved three new building signs totaling approximately 122.6 sq ft where 73 sq ft is normally allowed; sign height remained a planning-board conditional-use issue (motion passed unanimously).
- Interchange Development / Marshalls (14 Merchants Way): Board approved larger storefront and side-elevation signs (totaling ~309.6 sq ft requested) to aid visibility in a large retail campus; motion carried unanimously.
- Juliana Sheldon & Michael Bouchard (2 Auburn Street): Board approved a side-setback variance to permit a detached two-car garage (motion carried 5–0).
- Suzanne & Robert Aldrich (14 Marion Street): Board approved front- and side-setback variances for a covered porch with ramp to accommodate accessibility needs (motions carried; discussion referenced RSA 674:33(5)).
- Kevin Walker / 10 Ferry Street (Fatley Concord Center): Board re-heard and approved three previously considered variances for a freestanding sign (height up to 40 ft, increased area and an additional freestanding sign given limited official frontage); motions carried 4–0 (one member left early).
- Aaron Drummer (13 Wildflower Drive): Board granted a side-setback variance to permit a 20x20 carport 5' from the property line; motion passed 4–1.
Why it matters: The approvals reflect the board’s efforts to balance neighborhood character and pedestrian/driver wayfinding with reasonable landowner uses. Several commercial approvals emphasized safety and wayfinding for customers; residential approvals focused on lot constraints or accessibility needs.
What’s next: Many approvals will be followed by building permits or planning-board reviews (notably any sign-height or subdivision items). Neighbors and applicants were advised to follow planning and permitting steps for any next actions.
