Barrington ZBA grants variance to replace house at 80 River Road; neighbor voices support

The Barrington Zoning Board of Adjustment voted June 17 to grant variances that will allow replacement of an existing seasonal dwelling at 80 River Road with a year‑round home sited with reduced front and side setbacks.

Board members heard from an applicant representative who described the plan to replace the house and said the new dwelling would sit 12 feet farther from the water than the existing structure, would not increase density or traffic, and would preserve the residential character of the neighborhood. The representative said the project would modestly enlarge a deck but would not encroach on neighboring properties.

Sharon McKinney of 46 River Road spoke in support of the applicants, Peter Phillips and Paula Kozlowski, calling them “fabulous neighbors” who maintain the road and support the lake. Board members who visited the property and reviewed the materials described the proposal as a minor change consistent with nearby properties and voiced no concerns.

A motion to approve the variance included findings that special conditions exist for waterfront properties, that enforcement of the ordinance would create an unnecessary hardship on this lot, and that granting the variance would do substantial justice. The board approved the motion by roll call.

The applicants told the board they intend to make the house their year‑round residence. Because the applicants agreed to hear the case before the four seated board members present, the board asked the applicants to acknowledge and permit a decision by four members.