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Board approves Belangers’ subdivision to build accessible home for adult daughter
Summary
The Peabody Zoning Board approved a subdivision of 18 Sparrow Lane into two lots so Mark and Amy Belanger can build a single-story, handicap-accessible dwelling for their adult daughter; a neighbor requested a 15-foot setback which the applicants said would be preserved at the adjacent property line.
The Peabody Zoning Board of Appeals on April 13 voted to approve a subdivision of 18 Sparrow Lane that will create two lots and allow Mark and Amy Belanger to build a single-story, handicap-accessible home for their adult daughter.
Attorney John R. Kelty explained the property’s history and said the Belangers seek to create Lot A (about 11,024 square feet) and Lot B (about 12,947 square feet) so the daughter can have an independent, accessible dwelling. Kelty said the new lot configuration largely restores historic parcel lines and that the proposed new house can be built within zoning setbacks once the lot is created.
Applicant Mark Belanger told the board the house is intended to promote independence for their daughter, who has special needs. “We’re seeking to build a dwelling for our handicapped daughter,” he said, adding that a caregiver would support her daily needs.
Neighbor Elizabeth Willette, who owns the adjacent property, asked the board to preserve a 15-foot setback from her lot; the applicants and attorney clarified that the proposed new lot line and the removal of an encroaching shed would leave 15 feet between the new dwelling and Ms. Willette’s property.
The board moved to approve and recorded unanimous affirmative votes in a roll-call. The chair reminded those present that the decision will be filed with the city clerk and is subject to the standard appeal period.
Why it matters: The approval authorizes a lot division to enable construction of an accessible home for a family member with limited mobility — an action the applicants said they structured to allow independent financing and long-term housing stability.
What happens next: The subdivision decision will be filed with the clerk and the applicants may seek building permits for the single-story accessible dwelling if no appeal is filed within the 20-day period.
