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After contentious exchange over removed trees, Somerset council approves 4905 Cumberland amendment with permeable‑paver condition
Summary
The council approved an amendment to 4905 Cumberland Avenue to add a detached garage and driveway after debate about earlier unauthorized tree removals; approval was conditioned on the applicant pursuing permeable pavers 'to the maximum extent possible' subject to Montgomery County approval and returning an administratively reviewed plan.
Somerset, Feb. 24, 2025 — The Somerset Town Council voted to approve an amendment to the site plan and stormwater management plan for 4905 Cumberland Avenue, but added a condition requiring the applicant to pursue permeable pavement for portions of the new driveway where county rules allow.
The item drew a prolonged public record. Neighbors and counsel accused the applicants, Guido and Charmaine Bacchiale, of removing four trees without town permission in April 2024; neighbor counsel Michelle Roosevelt asked the council to deny the amendment on that basis and argued the council had previously removed a garage from an earlier application in part because of tree‑removal concerns. The council record shows prior fines and a reforestation requirement tied to earlier unauthorized removals;…
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