Marion Zoning Board of Appeals — April 23, 2026

The Marion Zoning Board of Appeals met on April 23, 2026, to consider two public hearing applications presented by architect Will Saltonstall of Saltonstall Architects. The first application was submitted on behalf of John and Jessica Peters for 20 South Street. The applicants requested a special permit under Section 230-6.1 to renovate and expand an existing historic residence and reconstruct and enlarge an existing accessory storage shed within non-conforming setbacks. The board noted support from abutters, including Christopher Shakoy, and voted unanimously 5-0 to approve the application as submitted.

The board then considered an application by the Marion Art Center for 80 Pleasant Street seeking a special permit and variance under Section 230-5.2 to construct two additions—a two-story egress and elevator addition and a single-story accessible gallery entrance addition—increasing ground lot coverage from 48.4% to 59.1% (exceeding the 40% zoning cap). Architect Saltonstall and Executive Director Jody Stevens explained the additions were necessary to meet building code, life safety, and accessibility requirements across five different floor levels. Following supportive comments from neighboring residents and board members, the board voted unanimously 5-0 to grant both the special permit and the variance, subsequently approving past meeting minutes before adjourning.

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