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Board approves two‑story garage with upper‑level gym/office at 55 Gibbs Ave.
Summary
The Zoning Board unanimously approved demolition of an existing garage and construction of a two‑story garage with a private gym/office and a small landing at 55 Gibbs Ave., after an objector withdrew concerns following applicant clarification.
Garren Whatmull and Rachel D'Amelia won unanimous approval Feb. 24 to demolish an existing one‑story three‑car garage and build a new two‑story three‑car garage with an upper‑level gym and a small exterior landing at 55 Gibbs Ave. Neighbors had filed an objection but withdrew after the applicants clarified the upper level would be used privately rather than as a commercial gym.
The board heard testimony from the applicants explaining the second floor is intended as a home office and private gym. One board member described the existing structure as in poor condition and supported its replacement. "I always like to see decrepit buildings rebuilt," a member said during deliberations. The petition was approved with standard conditions requiring work to begin and substantially complete within 12 months and that public‑notice invoices be paid before recording.
Applicants said they had consulted nearby neighbors; no outstanding objections remained at the time of the vote. The board characterized the increase in lot coverage as modest and the change as consistent with neighborhood character given the property's configuration.
