ZBA tables complex accessory-structure request at 1900 East River Road for revised plans

Dr. Christina Shaw appeared by phone May 7 to request variances for two replacement wood sheds and to address repair and later attachment of an existing detached garage at 1900 East River Road. Shaw said she previously had plastic sheds and replaced them with wood units; she also described plans to attach the garage to the house later with a breezeway and acknowledged the garage needs structural work.

Neighbors, including Debbie Keane, opposed the variances during public comment, calling the property ‘‘cluttered’’ and comparing the appearance to a junkyard. Keane said the condition of the site and multiple outbuildings were devaluing nearby homes. Shaw disputed those characterizations, said she maintains her property and cited personal hardships and previous disputes with neighbors.

Board members discussed which setbacks applied, measurements taken in the field, and how accessory-structure rules interact with future attachments. They suggested moving the sheds slightly away from the property line (a five-foot shift was discussed) and asked Shaw to return with clearer construction drawings, including any permit applications for a future breezeway. Shaw agreed to provide revised plans and the board voted to table the application for one month to allow the applicant to submit those materials.