Nashua zoning board approves subdivision variances for 11 Michelle Drive amid neighbors''blasting concerns

The Nashua Zoning Board of Adjustment voted unanimously Sept. 11 to grant two variances allowing the subdivision of 11 Michelle Drive into two single-family lots.

Attorney Elizabeth Hartigan, representing owner Thomas D'Angeli, told the board the frontage figure on one page of the application was listed incorrectly but corrected it at the meeting to 66.68 feet. She said the existing parcel is just over a half-acre and that the proposed lots would measure about 13,581 square feet and 11,295 square feet, both above the 9,000-square-foot minimum for the R-9 zone. "Both these lots will have respectively 13,581 square feet and 11,295 square feet," Hartigan said, arguing the division would not alter the neighborhood character or threaten health, safety or welfare.

Neighbors urged the board to deny the variances or to impose stronger pre-construction safeguards. Judith Turner, who presented a signed letter from five nearby homeowners, said City engineering previously flagged ledge and boulders on the parcel and called for pre-blast surveys and an insurance bond to cover any damage from blasting. "Any blasting should require a sufficient insurance bond to cover damages from blasting and boulder crushing," Turner read. Mary Jane Lugo, who said she lives in the cul-de-sac adjacent to the lot, told the board she could see old holes where dynamite had been attempted and said a gas line and nearby foundations could be at risk. "I think it directly will with the gas line, with our foundations being in jeopardy with the blasting," Lugo said.

Hartigan responded that the zoning board''s role was limited to frontage and width variances; she said construction details, including any blasting, would be reviewed later by the planning board and require permits from the city fire department. The board and staff repeated that construction-permit and blasting-safety requirements are addressed through those subsequent processes.

In its deliberation the board found the property''s shape and the location of existing improvements created special conditions and that the requested reductions in frontage and lot width were within the spirit of the ordinance. Board member Andrew Sylvia moved to approve the two variances; Josh Neely seconded. The motion passed 4-0. Staff reminded residents there is a 30-day rehearing and appeal window.

Next steps: the applicant will proceed to the planning board for subdivision review; any blasting or other construction activities will require permits and oversight from the Nashua fire department and other applicable city departments.