Zoning Board approves garage and home expansions
The Westport Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved nonconforming-use findings for a Wilfred's Garage expansion and a Petty Lane home rebuild, while warning a looming staffing gap could stall future hearings.
Zoning Board · Meeting of August 12, 2026
WESTPORT — The Westport Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved nonconforming-use findings for a Wilfred's Garage expansion and a Petty Lane home rebuild, while warning a looming staffing gap could stall future hearings. Chair Roger Menard said he told the Select Board "we will conduct no business without a zoning administrator" after learning the board's administrator, Maria, departs August 31 with no replacement hired. Member Gerald Coutinho recused himself from the Petty Lane vote, citing his ownership of two nearby properties, after unsuccessfully pressing for a formal parking plan at the garage hearing.
Abutter Marcel Gavan objected to the Petty Lane rebuild in writing and in person, citing lost water views and invoking Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A. Members noted state law could force automatic approval of petitions if hearings aren't held within 65 days or decisions issued within 100 days. The board postponed its annual officer elections indefinitely.
In the full story:
- Who Was There
- Organizations And Documents Referenced
- The complete report — 2,444 words
Source: the Zoning Board meeting of August 12, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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