Board approves height variance (not to exceed 15 ft) for 30×50 storage building after neighbors protest visual and privacy impacts

Windsor Locks zoning officials approved a height variance for a proposed 30×50 storage building at 523 Denzel Street, stipulating the mean height not exceed 15 feet and directing that final plans be reviewed by staff during permitting.

Applicant Lou Bernier (identified in the record by the applicant voice) said he needs the structure to store a 38‑foot RV and other vehicles. Neighbors spoke in opposition, one reading a prepared letter describing worries about "loss of neighborhood character," removal of trees, increased light and noise, and potential negative effects on property values. "I purchased my home for the quiet neighborhood, the private backyard openness, and the nature on all sides," the neighbor said in public comment.

Staff explained the town’s standard mean height is 14 feet and that proposed roof/door configurations could push the structure above that mean, which is why the applicant applied for a variance. Members discussed alternatives — such as placing entry doors on the gable end, lowering roof pitch, or routing final design details to staff — to reduce visual impact while enabling indoor storage.

After hearing comments from neighbors and the applicant, the board moved to approve a height variance "not to exceed 15 feet" for the 30×50 building at 523 Denzel Street, with the condition that final designs be submitted to staff for review as part of permitting. The board noted that the building’s footprint would remain under the town's 20% maximum lot coverage and that, absent the height issue, a similar building in other parts of town had been constructed without a variance.

Staff will require the applicant to submit plans and will check driveway, placement and landscaping details during permit review. The decision must be posted for 15 days and filed with the clerk to be effective.