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Planning Board continues Bruno ADU application after unit falls short of state minimum
Summary
The Planning Board continued Minor Site Plan case #26MSP03 after finding the existing cottage proposed for conversion to an ADU is 480 sq ft—below the 750 sq ft minimum in state and town guidance—and advised the applicant to seek a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
The Planning Board continued a Minor Site Plan application from applicants Jeremy and Taylor Bruno for a proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) after determining the existing cottage does not meet the minimum size required under state and town guidance.
Donna Sullivan, the town’s Land Use Administrative Assistant, read application #26MSP03 into the record and noted the parcel uses a private well; the Water/Sewer Department reported the property had been charged a commercial sewer rate while the building operated as a hair salon and asked the owners to arrange a meter inspection so staff can verify the meter and convert the account to a residential rate if appropriate. The Board also corrected an address discrepancy on the application after the applicant clarified the unit in question is addressed 105 High Street.
Taylor Bruno described plans to renovate the former salon into a small residential dwelling. Board members reviewed the floor plan and parking, and Ms. Sullivan retrieved the property card to confirm dimensions. The Board found the existing cottage measures 480 square feet, short of the 750 square-foot minimum cited in state guidance and local ADU rules. Members discussed options: expand the unit and submit revised plans or obtain a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA).
Town Administrator Christina Goodwin recommended the Planning Board continue the Minor Site Plan rather than deny it so the applicants would have time to seek ZBA relief. Scott Severn moved to find the application complete; Jeremy Fischer seconded and the motion carried 5-0-0. Fischer then moved to continue case #26MSP03 until the applicant secures a variance; Glenn Huot seconded and the motion carried 5-0-0.
The Board advised the applicants to consult the ZBA about a variance or return with revised plans that meet the 750 sq ft standard. Ms. Sullivan also said she would contact the New Hampshire Municipal Association for clarification about the interplay between the state ADU law (Section 674:72 referenced in meeting discussion) and local zoning standards. The Board did not set a return date but left the file continued so the applicants can pursue next steps.
