Commission approves school water-treatment shed as minor modification, contingent on setback compliance

Porter opened discussion on a Board of Education request seeking approval of a 12-by-20-foot shed to house a new water treatment system for the school. John (staff) explained that under Section 51.7 the commission may approve de minimis changes to an approved site plan or special permit so long as the change does not affect layout, intensity, environmental impact, or the approved nature of the use.

John described the shed as a small structure to house pump and filtration equipment that would serve the school only; he said he was not certain whether the school property and town offices are on separate lots or separate water systems and that setbacks or ZBA variances would be handled before installation if required. Commissioners requested clearer dimensions and site-plan details and discussed administrative options such as a lot-line adjustment that Savannah (zoning staff) could document.

Porter moved that the proposed change be treated as a minor modification and authorized approval of the project contingent on zoning setback compliance; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Commissioners noted that if a variance or setback issue emerged, the commission would withhold final sign-off until the matter was resolved and that administrative lot-line adjustments would be an option to address boundary issues.

Next steps: the school must provide clear dimensions and confirm setbacks; if setback relief is required the school will need to pursue the appropriate ZBA or lot-line-adjustment process before the zoning officer signs off.