Zoning board delays decision on 366 West St. variance after town counsel advises hold

The Bolton Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously May 14 to defer a decision on an application for a 15-foot side-yard variance at 366 West St., citing procedural concerns and advice from the town counsel.

Zoning Board member William Pike moved that, “per the advice of the town counsel, a decision will not be made tonight on the application for variance, ZBA-24-1 366 West St. 15 ft. side yard variance,” and that the applicant be permitted to file a new application later with notice and in accordance with the Bolton zoning regulations and general statutes at no additional charge. Member Anne Decker seconded the motion, which passed 4–0–0.

Pike told the board that members who were not present for earlier public hearings should be allowed to participate if the applicant reapplies; he noted that packets and recordings of prior meetings are available so absent members can familiarize themselves with the application. The board recorded that three of the five members who had been present for earlier hearings were present at the May 14 meeting.

The board did not enter any substantive debate on the merits of the variance at the meeting. The formal action postpones a decision until a properly noticed hearing can be scheduled; if the applicant chooses to refile, the application may be submitted without an additional fee. The town’s zoning regulations and applicable general statutes will govern notice and hearing requirements for any future filing.

The board adjourned at 7:17 p.m. after completing its remaining procedural business. The applicant or their representative will need to notify the town and follow the standard reapplication process if they elect to proceed.