Table of Contents

🗳️ Key Decisions & Votes

Approval of February 19, 2025 Minutes
— Approved as written with a vote of 3-0-1 (Joshua Cole abstained)

Determination for 86-88 South Shore Drive (Stephen and Marcy Reed)
— Granted determination to allow demolition of existing cottage and construction of new single-family home with 21% lot coverage; approved 4-0

💬 Major Discussion: South Shore Drive Cottage Rebuild

The Board heard a determination request from Stephen and Marcy Reed for their property at 86-88 South Shore Drive, represented by Karen Keegan of Allen Engineering & Associates.

Background of the Project

The Reeds originally received a Special Permit in February 2023 to renovate their existing cottage with a two-story addition and garage, exceeding lot coverage requirements at 16.80%. The initial plan was to tear down and rebuild, but was modified during the Conservation Commission review process to a renovation.

Why the Change Was Needed

After receiving approvals and beginning work with a builder, the renovation approach proved unfeasible. The applicants then attempted to revert to the original demolition-and-rebuild plan, but faced a complication: their original engineer was no longer in business.

When Allen Engineering prepared new plans, different lot size calculations emerged due to a different measurement point for the high-water mark:

  • Original calculations: 13,503.60 square feet lot size, 16.80% lot coverage

  • New calculations: 12,531 square feet lot size, 21% lot coverage

Jean Bubon, Town Planner noted that the new plan included the stairway, front porch, and stairs in coverage calculations, though stairs are actually exempt from such calculations.

Board Action

Despite the different measurements, the actual size of the home remains the same. The Town Planner suggested filing for a determination to reconcile the plan differences. The Board unanimously approved the determination, finding that the proposal does not create new non-conformities or increase existing ones from the previously granted Special Permit.

🏗️ Community Impact

👋 Longtime Board Member ResignationMarge Cooney resigned from the Zoning Board of Appeals after 27 years of volunteer service to the Town on both the ZBA and Planning Board. Board members praised her institutional knowledge, dedication, and mentorship of new members and staff. Chair Diane Trapasso noted that Cooney had been "a help to many new Board members and staff over the years."

👥 Upcoming Board Vacancy Process
A joint meeting with the Board of Selectmen is scheduled for April 7th to fill the remainder of Cooney's term.

🔍 Quick Recap

February 19, 2025 meeting minutes approved 3-0-1

Determination granted for 86-88 South Shore Drive cottage demolition and rebuild (4-0)

Marge Cooney recognized for 27 years of service after resignation announcement

No new non-conformities created by revised South Shore Drive project plans

🗓️ Upcoming Meetings & Follow-Ups

📅 Joint ZBA & Board of Selectmen Meeting (Board Vacancy) — April 7, 2025, Time TBD | Location TBD
🔗 Add to Google Calendar

📅 Zoning Board of Appeals Regular Meeting — April 16, 2025, Time TBD | Center Office Building
🔗 Add to Google Calendar

🗂️ Resources

✍️ Written by The Town Minute — making town government easier to follow, one meeting at a time.

Disclaimer

The Town Minute is an independent publication not affiliated with the Town of Sturbridge or any municipal office. While we strive for accuracy, errors or omissions may occur. For official and complete records, please refer to the Town's approved meeting minutes or watch the official meeting recordings on the Town's website.

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