Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals — May 14, 2026

The Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals met on May 14, 2026, to conduct regular business and hold a public hearing. The board approved three sets of meeting minutes from April 30, 2026 (business meeting, Petition 1233, and Petition 1234), each by a 4-0 vote with one abstention. Following the retirement of board member Richard Cutler, the board discussed filling the regular vacancy and unanimously supported recommending associate member K. Douglas Sims to the Select Board for promotion to full-time status. The board also approved two vouchers totaling $52.76 for a retirement plaque and nameplate, discussed prospective member recruitment, and reviewed upcoming applications scheduled for June 11, 2026, including a review of an in-home gym permit.

The board then opened a public hearing on Petition 1235 for 100 Rider Road, submitted by Joe Marto of JM Craftsmanship on behalf of homeowner Ashley Arenberger. The applicant requested two variances: relief from the 1,000-square-foot size limit to construct a two-story, 3,200-square-foot detached garage (replacing an existing structure) and a reduction of the side setback from 40 feet to 20.5 feet. Abutter Mark McLeod of 86 Rider Road spoke in favor of the project, noting adequate tree buffering. However, board members identified issues regarding unverified setbacks and permit histories for other existing accessory structures on the lot, as well as the need for an updated plan detailing elevations, the proposed septic layout, and an abandoned leaching galley cited as a physical hardship. The board voted 5-0 to continue the hearing to June 11, 2026.

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