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Developers propose 44,400 sq ft multi-use/storage complex on Route 7 in Ferrisburgh
Summary
Johnathan Couture and consultant Scott Baker presented a proposal for five new buildings totaling 44,400 sq ft between Stage Road and Lewis Creek; the board discussed wetlands demarcation, shared utilities, a 600,000-gallon fire pond and conditions for enforceable performance standards.
Developers behind a proposal labeled Vermont Toy Storage, LLC presented plans for a five-building, 44,400-square-foot complex on the west side of Route 7 between Stage Road and Lewis Creek during the ZBA’s Nov. 5 meeting.
Applicant Johnathan Couture and engineering consultant Scott Baker described the site as primarily wetlands and said the development would rely on shared utilities (water from Lot 3, wastewater from Lot 1). The site plan shows riparian buffers tapering to 25 feet near the developed area and wetlands demarcated by woven-wire fencing and seven signs. Couture said the project benefits from neighboring conserved lands (roughly 60+ acres) and framed the design as an "example" type project in terms of design and safety.
The buildings are styled with pitched, barn-like roofs and are 35 feet tall at their center (34' 8" listed on the plan). Setbacks were given as north 53 feet, east 266 feet, south 102 feet and west 125 feet. After consulting the Ferrisburgh Fire Department the applicants added a centrally located fire pond and additional hydrants and access points; the applicant stated the pond would provide approximately 600,000 gallons for firefighting.
Board members and staff repeatedly stressed the need for clear, enforceable conditions that the Zoning Administrator can administer — not open-ended flexibility for future owners. Scott Baker explained that listing numeric, "maximum impact" metrics (for example maximum wastewater or peak vehicle trips) can make permitting enforceable while allowing varied uses. Zoning Administrator Katie Hill warned that permit logistics are complex and that specifics such as a lighting plan should be submitted and enforced to protect neighbors from nuisance impacts.
Public comments included support from neighbors. Barbara and Paul Eriksen of Marine Plus told the board "this plan is great, and lighting seems reasonable for the size of the complex," and said neighborhood sentiment was receptive but noted local break-ins as a safety concern. The board closed the public hearing and moved the matter into deliberation, indicating that multiple aspects will return for conditional-use review and that site-visit notes should be entered into the record.
