Unanimous Zoning Decision Clears Path for Renovation
Why the Yards’ Property Required Special Consideration
Farmington Zoning Board Grants Variance After Homeowners Navigate Insurance Obstacles 🏠
Faced with insurance challenges, Farmington homeowners Matthew and Krista Yard returned to the Zoning Board of Appeals on February 18, 2025, seeking a fresh variance to renovate their home at 100 Red Oak Hill Road. After previously securing permission to demolish and rebuild in November 2024, the Yards adjusted their plans due to constraints imposed by their insurance company—opting instead for an extensive renovation of their existing structure.
“Because of the septic system and the shape of the lot, there were limited options,” explained Town Planner William Warner, clarifying the unique hardship leading to this decision. “It’s an unusual situation that required some creative thinking.”
The board unanimously approved the variance, reducing the front yard setback from 40 feet to 20 feet, accommodating the Yards’ proposed garage and porch expansions. Commissioner Brian Callahan emphasized the decision was straightforward: “Given the lot’s shape and pre-existing nonconforming issues, granting the variance just made sense.”
The evening also featured a lighter note when Chairman John Shorn humorously praised long-serving staff member Sandra Michaud, noting her impressively prompt delivery of meeting minutes: “Sandra gets the minutes out so fast, sometimes it feels like she sends them out before we finish speaking,” he joked, earning a laugh from the audience.
Farmington residents interested in zoning details can access more information through the town’s official website or directly by contacting the planning department at Farmington Town Hall (860-675-2325).
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About the Author
Jack Beckett is The Farmington Mercury’s Senior Writer, fueled daily by caffeine and curiosity. If he’s not deep in zoning documents, you’ll find him passionately arguing about pour-over coffee techniques. ☕
