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Neighbors raise location and noise concerns as Columbia ZBA approves filtration shed
Summary
Residents questioned whether the shed would be placed in private yards or near playgrounds and asked about potential noise; the board and town clarified the shed is on town property off the sidewalk and required soundproofing was added as a condition of approval.
Several residents at the hearing raised concerns about the shed’s proximity to private yards and to a playground. One neighbor asked whether the shed would be in the back of their yard and said, "I was concerned if it's gonna be in the back of my yard because I have a fun playground"; the board and presenters clarified the installation is on town property off the sidewalk and not within private backyards.
Neighbors also asked about operational noise. A town/school presenter replied, "It will make no noise whatsoever," and explained pumps would be quiet and most activity would be internal to the shed. Despite that assurance, the board added a soundproofing condition to the approval to mitigate any potential noise impacts and included a requirement that placement "shall not affect the surrounding property values." The board's motion passed unanimously and the procedural next steps—posting, a 15-day appeal window and required permits—remain.
