FAIRFAX DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARDWednesday, August 3, 2011

 

Variance Hearing for Bil Albright at 31 Maxfield Rd

 

Members Present: J. Heyer, B. Murphy, M. Casey, C. Rainville, J. Beers

Alternates Present: None

Applicant Present: Bil Albright

Public Present: S. Taylor, ZA

                       

7:00 PM- Introductions were made, the warning read, and interested persons sworn in.  Bil Albright asked for a variance to build a garage on his property at 31 Maxfield Rd. within the setbacks. He discussed how he would meet the 5 criteria necessary to get a variance on his property.

 

The proposed garage would be 20 by 20 feet.  Mr. Albright explained that he is limited by the topography of his land (steep slopes) in placing the proposed structure.  He presented photos, maps, and video to the Board showing the steep slopes, perspectives, and locations of septic, etc.

 

There was discussion regarding the distances from the property lines, center of road and edge of the ravine.  Mr. Albright explained that the unstable, sandy soil and limited level area of his lot made placement of the garage impossible within the setbacks.  The location of an existing shed and septic on the south side of the home in addition to limited remaining level land prevented construction there.

 

There was discussion on ‘reasonable use’ – is having a garage a reasonable use of the property?  There was additional discussion on whether the property was fully developed and the meaning of a ‘minimum variance’.

 

After some discussion it was decided that no site visit was required.

 

8:30 PM- J. Beers moved to close the hearing to public input; B. Murphy 2nd.  All in favor.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Martha Varney, Planning and Zoning Assistant

 

 

Approved: _______________________________ Date: __________________, 2011

                    For the Development Review Board

 

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These minutes are unofficial until approved at the next regularly scheduled meeting.  All motions were unanimously approved unless otherwise indicated.