Zoning Board of Adjustment approves revised plans for Manelas property at 41 West Shore Road

The Bristol Zoning Board of Adjustment unanimously approved revised plans for a property at 41 West Shore Road on June 11, 2026, finding changes submitted by the owners meet the conditions of Variance #26VAR01.

Donna Sullivan, the board’s land use administrative assistant, read the Notice of Decision into the record and displayed revised drawings and photos. She said the submission was provided to the Board for a compliance review required by the variance conditions.

Permit Officer Mike Lacasse explained that a permit had been issued for a six-foot slider door to be installed in the front elevation between two windows; the two center windows will be removed and a dormer added to provide the height necessary for the new door. Lacasse said the only remaining concern at that point involved the placement of exterior steps.

Board members discussed removal of the wrap-around deck and agreed the revised plan reduces impermeable surface area. The plan retains a 3-foot-by-3-foot platform connected to the main deck and relocates steps from the right side of the house to the left-front, which the Board determined eliminates the prior side-setback encroachment.

After discussing the retaining wall and stairway location and confirming setback measurements for the nearby cottage, Board member Steve Carten moved to approve the revised plan “as presented,” saying it met the requirements set forth in the Notice of Decision. Lorraine Bohmiller seconded the motion. The motion carried on a 5-0-0 vote.

With no further business, the Board adjourned at 3:12 p.m. The minutes were filed by Janet F. Cote, Land Use Associate.