Planning board approves rear-yard variances and final-plan modification for Lonsdale Main Place

The Lincoln Planning Board voted on Jan. 28 to approve dimensional variances and a final‑plan modification that will allow small rear decks and architectural overhangs on a nine‑unit development at Lonsdale Main Place.

Planning staff told the board the modification adds decks and bump‑outs that intrude into the required rear‑yard setback by about 7.2 feet for one building and 2.1 feet for another, creating the need for a dimensional variance. The project was previously administratively approved as a minor land development and is already under construction, staff said.

Staff summarized the Technical Review Committee’s findings and conditions before the board, including that no building permit may be issued until a retaining wall and riprap/swale are constructed and inspected and the retaining wall is certified by a structural engineer. Other conditions the board accepted include issuing only a foundation permit for certain buildings until grading is complete; verification that fill material infiltration matches stormwater calculations; sodding of yard areas for quick stabilization; installation of concrete sidewalks and granite curbing prior to occupancy; private ownership of the site bench; obtaining an NVC permit for the sewer extension; posting an improvement guarantee for public improvements; and compliance with applicable local, state and federal permits.

An attorney for the applicant and the property owner addressed the board. Owner James McKee told members the decks were added to provide functional outdoor space for residents and convenience for activities such as grilling. Planning staff also said that a meeting that afternoon with the town engineer and the water commission shifted the preferred water approach from private wells to extending and looping the municipal water main to the site to improve water quality and long‑term reliability.

David D’Amico, the project engineer, described the sewer connection plan: “The sewer stops right here in the street. We’re gonna connect here and bring it all the way to 1564 Lonsdale,” he said, adding that each unit would have its own lateral if owners choose to connect.

Board member Mr. London moved to approve the variances conditioned upon final plan modification approval; Mr. Seymour seconded. Members certified they had reviewed materials as required; one member was asked to abstain because he had not had a chance to become familiar with the project. The board approved the variances by voice vote. The board then voted to approve the final‑plan modification with the staff conditions described above.

The approvals mean the developer may proceed under the stated conditions; the retaining wall, stormwater verifications and other prerequisites must be completed and inspected before full building permits and occupancy as specified by staff.