Residents press town on zoning, ask why property rules differ

Art and Ron Burnett raised zoning and permitting concerns during public participation at the Huron Town Board meeting, asking why their property had been required to split into five-acre parcels and why the Building Inspector had not contacted them directly about requirements. Art Burnett said he had “no complaints” but wanted to understand why certain actions—such as surveying or deed changes—were required.

Building Inspector Roger Gallant answered that in the A5A district “there can only be 1 residential structure on a parcel,” and that certified farms and farm housing are treated differently than standalone residential structures. Gallant explained that multiple farm or labor housing arrangements typically go through the Zoning Board of Appeals for approval, and encouraged the Burnetts to meet with him in his office to review their specific situation. Supervisor Dave Fantuzzo also suggested that if the Burnetts remained unhappy with the inspector’s answers they could bring the matter back to the Town Board for further consideration.

Why it matters: The exchange highlighted how town zoning and historic farm classifications can produce different requirements for neighboring parcels, and it signaled a next step for residents seeking more detailed information — a one-on-one meeting with the Building Inspector or a future board follow-up if needed.