Zoning panel OKs special‑use permit to expand home daycare at 1674 Old Lewis (with conditions)

The Lincoln Zoning Board approved a special‑use permit on Dec. 2 allowing Wesley Powell to expand his in‑home daycare to serve up to 12 children, subject to conditions set by the planning board and state/building-code limits. Chair moved for approval, the motion was seconded and the board recorded ayes and approved the permit.

Wesley Powell told the board he operates an in‑home daycare with a separate entrance and classroom space; he said the request reflects existing space that can safely accommodate additional children and that drop‑offs and pick‑ups are staggered to reduce traffic impacts. Powell said his business hours are roughly 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The building official explained that under state/building-code rules the applicant could accommodate up to 12 children in total in some configurations but, without sprinkler and accessibility upgrades, generally would be limited to eight children older than 2½ years. To accommodate more children of older ages the applicant would need building changes (sprinklers, ADA access, etc.). Powell already has an affidavit on file limiting certain age cohorts to meet the building official’s requirements.

The planning board reviewed the application on Nov. 19 and forwarded a positive recommendation (4–0) while asking the applicant to document hours of operation, demonstrate adequate on‑site parking for peak drop‑off/pick‑up and consider staggered times if necessary. The board made approval conditional on those operational considerations and noted that other state and department inspections (fire, health) will still apply.

Next steps: Powell may proceed with the expanded operation subject to the affidavit and any state or building-department requirements; the building and health departments will enforce applicable code limits during permit and licensing processes.