Lot‑line change proposed; fire department raises access concerns — public hearing set for June 26

The planning board accepted a lot-line modification application for a Cottage Road parcel and scheduled a public hearing for June 26.

Thomas Carrian of Labella Associates said the proposal shifts a line about 130 feet to balance two parcels and that the property is buildable from Cottage Road. The plans show a 12‑ft paved driveway width (15 ft full width), turning radii, and a recommended first‑25‑ft slope of 3% then a maximum slope of 10% — standards the engineer said the Cottage Road option meets. “The cottage road access meets the requirements of the code for the first 25 ft at 3%,” an engineer stated during the presentation.

But the fire advisory board raised safety concerns. Fire officials said the straight shot from Dill Hill is flatter and easier for apparatus and that the Cottage Road access — especially in icy or nighttime conditions — could force staging and hose‑laying that reduces available water and slows response. The board asked the applicant to show both the Cottage Road and Dill Hill alternatives at the June 26 public hearing and recommended the applicant work to secure any required private road maintenance‑agreement changes before a building permit is sought.

Next steps: public hearing set for June 26; applicant to show both driveway alternatives and prepare any documentation needed to add the improved lot to the relevant private maintenance agreement before a building permit review.