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Orwell DRB hears public comment on a merged parcel, reschedules variance and debates closed-session deliberations
Summary
At its Oct. 15 meeting the Orwell DRB heard resident Steven Brigham ask about a merged parcel and building a house on a 1/4-acre portion, agreed to reschedule a warned variance for Vincent Aveta to November, and briefly discussed pros and cons of closed-session deliberations versus public decision-making.
Resident Steven Brigham spoke during public comment about a parcel at 16 Roberts Ave that the state merged from two parcels in the 1980s. He presented a recent survey map and said the prior owner wanted to keep two separate lots with two driveways; Brigham asked whether he could build a new house on roughly a 1/4-acre vacant portion while leaving the existing house on about 3/4 acre and asked questions about lot lines, setbacks and whether a variance or waiver would be required. Vice Chair Gary Murdock advised Brigham to read the Orwell Land Use Regulations concerning waivers and variances, and Chair Daniel Redondo said he would consult Thomas Purdy, senior zoning administrator, for guidance.
During new business the board noted a warned variance application for Vincent Aveta (Permit #9-49-25) and agreed to reschedule that matter to the November DRB meeting because no one was present to represent the application. The board also briefly revisited a prior question from Vice Chair Murdock about whether the DRB should perform deliberations in closed session. Members said closed sessions can allow freer internal discussion but public sessions allow questions and let the public see the board’s reasoning; the discussion did not produce a policy change or vote.
The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn; Cian Quinn moved and Michelle Wigginton seconded. The board adjourned at 7:25 p.m. The next DRB meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025.
