Seabrook Board approves variance to permit two detached units on undersized South Main lots

The Town of Seabrook Board of Adjustment voted Jan. 22 to grant a variance allowing two detached dwelling units on undersized lots at 227 and 231 South Main Street, finding the request met the standards for relief under the town zoning ordinance.

The applicants, Brenda Lind and Franklin Goss (Map 16-8 & 16-9), sought a waiver of Section 7 that would allow two detached units on lots smaller than the 45,000-square-foot minimum for Zone 2R. Henry Boyd spoke on behalf of residents, describing historical lot patterns and saying the change would maintain the neighborhood’s existing character and enable family housing arrangements.

The Board recorded the five standard findings required for a variance, concluding the request was not contrary to the public interest, observed the spirit of the ordinance, provided substantial justice, would not diminish surrounding property values, and that literal enforcement would produce unnecessary hardship. The motion to accept the variance as written was made by Dave Davidson, seconded by Phil Howshan, and recorded as unanimous among the four members who voted: Jeff Brown (Chair), Dave Davidson, Phil Howshan and Fidae Azouri.

The written Notice of Decision sets conditions for the grant, including that the approval expires if the project is not completed within two years and that conditions must be satisfied before a building permit can be issued. The notice also includes the standard rehearing period under state law for parties seeking review.

The board did not record any dissenting votes on the findings. No specific building plans or permit timelines were stated at the meeting.