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Zoning board votes to amend variance stipulation to require visual planting buffer
Summary
The Ancram Zoning Board voted to pursue amending a prior variance stipulation to require a vegetative buffer that 'visually' screens a new shed from Lakeside residents after complaints that parts of the existing buffer were removed.
The Ancram Zoning Board voted to ask staff to seek legal guidance and, if permissible, amend a prior variance stipulation so that a vegetative buffer must "visually" screen a new shed from Lakeside residents.
Board members said they had received community complaints that portions of an existing vegetative buffer had been removed. The Chair noted the original intent of the stipulation was to create a visual screen: "The reason that we did it was visual," the Chair said. One board member moved that, "if legally possible, we amend the stipulation that the vegetative buffer...visually hide the...the new shed," and the motion was seconded and carried with a voice vote of members saying "Aye." Staff were directed to consult the board attorney before finalizing amended language.
Members discussed whether the prior wording—requiring an "existing vegetative buffer"—was specific enough about width, depth and visual purpose, and suggested language such as "to the extent reasonably possible" to set the standard while allowing for practical maintenance and replacement. The Chair said the board would follow up with legal counsel (John) to confirm what can be required and then return with clarified stipulation language for the record.
