What happens at the public hearing?
The Board will open the hearing by reading the application into the record. The applicant (or his/her representative) is then called to make a presentation to the Board, explaining what the applicant is proposing to do. Any commentary received from other Town departments is read into the record, along with any letters received by the Board regarding the application.

The Board members may ask questions of the applicant, and the Board will ask if anyone in the audience has any questions or comments. Occasionally the hearing will be continued to another date if the Board needs to conduct research, consult with Town Counsel, wait for a decision for another Town Board, or if the applicant needs to provide the Board with further information.

If the hearing is not continued, it will be closed, and the Board will either put the application to a vote, or will take the matter under advisement, to be voted on at a later date (within 90 days of the close of hearing for a special permit or 100 days from application for a variance).

Show All Answers

1. How long does it take to get a special permit?
2. Why do I need a special permit?
3. What’s the difference between a special permit and a variance?
4. Do I need a lawyer?
5. I just received notice that my neighbor is applying for a special permit or variance for his property. What should I do? I’d like to present my opinion to the Board. Do I need to attend the hearing?
6. What happens at the public hearing?
7. What happens after the Board reaches a decision?
8. Why do I have to wait 20 days?
9. When is the decision effective?
10. What if I’m not happy with the Board’s decision?
11. I want to add an accessory apartment to my home. What do I need to do?
12. I have an illegal apartment and want to sell my home. What should I do?
13. Where can I go to find the Town's By-laws?