Town of Kensington

Minutes for Zoning Board of Adjustment

September 4, 2001 Meeting

Approved October 2, 2001

 

In Attendance: Joan Skewes, acting Chairperson, Katherine Clark, Paul Kimball, and Eric Peterson

 

The Meeting was called to order at 7:30 pm.

 

R. S. Sanderson Builders continuance – Attorney Pelech and Brad Jones of Jones and Beach Engineering met with the Board, presenting updated plans.  Joan Skewes read from a Memorandum prepared by John Krebs of the Rockingham Planning Commission regarding additional information needed.  Under Section 1, additional information is required, Item A asked that the well radius be depicted to guarantee a minimum 75’ setback from the proposed septic system.  Mr. Jones explained that there is a waiver that when someone puts a well on someone else’s property, they give up any rights to someone going in and putting a septic system within the well radius, but he will look into the matter.  Joan Skewes suggested a statement that the neighboring well is not within 75’ of the septic system.  Item B discussed relocating the right-of-way thus eliminating the need for variances to erect a structure in the Hydric Soil Setback.  Mr. Jones explained that the right-of-way is presently paved and Attorney Pelech commented that both ends would need to be moved requiring approval by both abutters.  Item C urged the Board to require certification of the Plan by a licensed NH Certified Soil Scientist or a NH Certified Wetland Scientist since the lot is largely comprised of wetland soils.  Mr. Jones stated Mike West had done the soils and he would ask him to stamp the Plan.  Section 2 referred to the impact of Simplex v. Town of Newington and the NH Supreme Court Decision.  Attorney Pelech disagreed with Mr. Kreb’s synopsis, arguing that the definition of hardship has been changed.  He explained that this lot previously had an approved septic system, is not within Hydric A or B soils and feels that the proposal is not contrary to either the spirit or intent of the Kensington Zoning Ordinance. 

          The retaining wall was discussed, with Mr. Jones explaining the engineering and compliance with state requirements.  P. Kimball expressed concerns with runoff affecting wetlands, however, Mr. Jones explained that swaling could cause more problems than allowing the water to sheet. 

          A limited cut area and no cut area were discussed.  These will be defined in the restrictive covenants.  Joan Skewes requested extending the no cut area another 20’.  Mr. Jones explained that there is a shed like structure that could possibly be demolished, but could involve cutting trees.  Following discussion, it was agreed to extend the no cut area by 15 feet and demolish the existing structure. 

          K. Clark asked to clarify that the Reilly’s were the owners as written on the application and plan to sell the property to Sanderson pending approvals.  Mr. Jones said he thought that might be the case, but was not sure.

          Joan Skewes summarized the following three requirements:  1) The location of 5/Lot 31-3 well or a statement that the proposed septic system is not within 75’, 2) Extending the no cut zone an additional 15’, and 3) Plans to be stamped by a NH Certified Soil Scientist or a NH Certified Wetland Scientist.  Attorney Pelech asked if the Board would vote on the proposal conditioned upon satisfactory completion of the plan.  Joan Skewes replied that the Board would prefer to have a final plan before voting.  P. Kimball moved to extend to the next meeting, Joan Skewes with all in favor.

 

Todd and Renay Burnim – Mr. & Mrs. Burnim were not in attendance although a letter had been sent.  P. Kimball moved not to extend any further, seconded by Joan Skewes with all in favor.

 

Approval of August 7, 2001 minutes – P. Kimball asked about a reference in John Krebs memorandum regarding Mr. Sanderson stating the access right-of-way could be relocated.  Denise will contact Mr. Krebs to determine the basis for his statement.  P. Kimball moved to accept the minutes as presented, seconded by Joan Skewes with all in favor. 

 

Harold Bragg spoke briefly with the Board regarding whether processing cordwood is a separate activity or part of his landscaping business.  The Board felt they should review the prior approvals.

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

Denise Gregson

Administrative Assistant