Charlton ZBA Unanimously Approves Lakefront Deck Extension, Glen Echo Garage

CHARLTON — June 30, 2026 — Charlton ZBA approves deck extension and lakeside garage at June 30 hearing. The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously granted a variance and special permit to Jennifer Bergeron of 5 Robert Blvd. to extend a nonconforming lakefront deck 10 feet, with the hardship grounded in lot size and the front-of-lot placement of the well and septic system. The board also unanimously approved a variance to Arthur and Laurie North for a 24-by-24-foot two-car garage on a combined vacant lot of approximately 4,500 square feet on Glen Echo Shore Drive — well below the R-40 zone's 40,000-square-foot minimum — granting relief of 35,500 square feet of area and 90 feet of frontage. Building Commissioner Curt Meskis noted the lot also falls below the state statutory minimum for a buildable lot, prompting extended discussion about whether the variance should be structured as a primary rather than accessory use; the board ultimately limited the approval to "a two-car garage with storage as the primary use of that structure." Abutter Bob Fitchin appeared in opposition, presenting photographs of foundation damage he attributed to existing stormwater runoff, but the board told him drainage enforcement falls outside its zoning authority. Both variances are subject to a 20-day appeal period and must be recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds before building permits can issue.