Board hears reduced-frontage special permit for Brissett property; neighbors ask for setback clarity

Steve Brissett presented a reduced-frontage lot proposal for a parcel on Hill Road and described the site's compliance with zoning thresholds: more than 60 feet of frontage, roughly 24 acres, a 275-foot access strip and a proposed house setback of about 350 feet from the road. Brissett said he has conservation approval for septic and well work and a driveway permit; portions of the driveway base have already been installed.

Board members reviewed reduced-frontage criteria: a minimum of 50 feet frontage, at least 5 acres, an access strip no longer than 600 feet and a 200-foot setback. Neighbors asked whether the 200-foot setback is measured from the road or from the property boundary; several residents asked the board to require additional buffering or to move the house further back to protect privacy and wetlands.

The board did not vote on the permit at the meeting. Instead, members moved to continue the public hearing so the planning staff and enforcement officer (Kurt) can confirm the correct interpretation of the 200-foot setback and any conservation constraints. The hearing was continued to Jan. 21, 2026.