Zoning board closes hearing on outdoor storage request for Vermont Toy Storage, will issue written decision

Jonathan Couture of Vermont Toy Storage sought an amendment (Application 26‑002) to allow outdoor storage on site until construction of five buildings is complete, saying temporary outdoor rentals or storage are needed for near‑term revenue. Board members pressed for limits, noting permits run with the land if permanent and that unrestricted outdoor storage could be unsightly and transferable to future owners.

Norm Smith and other members suggested a 2– to 3‑year temporary approval with the option to return for extension; Couture said that timeframes might make his business plan unworkable and expressed frustration that the Board had denied other aspects of his original application. The Board closed the hearing at 8:25 p.m. and, on a motion to deliberate, voted unanimously to take the matter under deliberation and issue a written decision rather than vote that night. The minutes record that the Board intends to issue a written decision, and that the applicant may return later if an extension is needed.