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Select Board debates validity of zoning appeals, certified letters and appeal procedure
Summary
A contested zoning appeal and two certified-mail notices prompted extended debate over whether appeals were procedurally valid, whether the zoning administrator was bypassed, and whether certified letters contained accurate information. Board members discussed possible cancellation of the hearing and recommended follow-up actions.
Residents and board members spent an extended portion of the meeting on a zoning complaint and related appeals. The meeting record shows disagreement about whether a permit ever existed (which affects appeal rights) and whether the complainant followed the required chain—bringing the matter to the Zoning Administrator before filing an appeal to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. One board member said, "There can't be an appeal to the ZBA if we don't permit this ever."
Speakers raised fiscal concerns about sending multiple certified letters and about inaccurate information in mailed notices. One resident said letters had "completely false" information and asked for a chance to respond publicly before a hearing; board members discussed options including asking the ZBA chair to cancel the hearing if it lacked merit, or having the Select Board review procedures in executive session. No final cancellation was recorded; the board discussed following established steps and possibly asking the ZBA chair to review the matter.
