Board of Adjustment Agenda and Packet 2024 07 17

Home Browse Search

To Whom it May Concern: My name is Judy Herlihy and I am the homeowner and resident of 836 Rex St., the small bungalow and separate garage on the corner of Rex and Main. I am requesting a variance and permit approval for guest quarters I have been trying to build, for over 3 years, above my garage. As a single senior, my home is great for me but cannot accommodate visiting family or guests. I have had to use a pull-out sofa in my tiny office, which takes up the entire room, when unfolded. I also hope to use the proposed guest space for a caretaker, if needed in my future (I am 82). 3 Years ago, I hired a builder for this project. After too many delays that he attributed to hold-ups with my permit, I took charge and discovered the permit had never been requested. I paid him 40k for the architectural plans, "permits" and foundation work. He is no longer responding to me. I am hurt and frustrated, but would like to move on with this project that I continue to have so much hope for. I am requesting that I be allowed to proceed, by keeping the 2nd floor addition within the footprint of the existing garage, except for the back side, into my yard. If I were to comply with the 15' offset on the Main St. side, I would have to slide the entire addition, further into my backyard/garden. The size and footprint of the entire structure would be greatly and unnecessarily increased. It just doesn't seem to make sense, both visually and architecturally. The proposed front wall, on the Main St. side, is already set back from the existing garage footprint, to allow for the small front porch (for neighborly interaction). I am happy to reduce or remove this porch so it does not protrude over the existing garage footprint. I believe my garage has unique and unusual physical circumstances. My home and garden are alongside the popular pedestrian throughway/entrance to Community Park. Several visitors per day stop at my fence to visit and see my garden (my pre -retirement profession was horticulture). The let -down happens when they see, not only my old, unmatching garage, but the numerous messy powerlines and towering modern black box house behind it. I believe my proposed addition would so beautifully cover this and improve the Old Town charm and aesthetic experience for the entrance to the park. My neighbors have all been rooting for me and are happy to chime in with their full support. Thank you so much for your consideration of this project. It would mean so much to me. Sincerely, Judy Herlihy