Pease Mountain Subdivision Gains Planning Approval
by Edd Merritt

Peter Schneider and Jessica Donovan’s application to develop a major residential subdivision of eight lots on the lower northeast slope of Pease Mountain in central Charlotte was approved by the Planning Commission with several conditions.

Sometimes referred to as the Griffin Hill Subdivision, the proposal has come under scrutiny from neighbors as well the CCS School Board and planners because it represents building in an area that is a central landmark of the town as well as one that contains significant natural features under study by the Town of Charlotte and University of Vermont students.

In their decision commission members considered a number of issues about the property deemed to be “of high public value.” These include the adjacent natural area of Pease Mountain that contains critical wildlife habitats and corridors. In reviewing the final application, the commission determined that the development’s impact on the habitat has been reduced by moving the major portion of building from a higher plateau to a lower site.

The proposal included a tree house, tent platform and trail for this critical wildlife area. Noting that the space is already used by students, the commission felt the trail would “not introduce new impacts.” However, other development, including the tree house and tent platform “would be a new type of disturbance.” Therefore, these two structures will be moved to the lower open area of the development. The commission added a condition that the tree house not contain plumbing or electricity.

The commission’s decision noted that the “applicant has taken steps . . . to improve the harmony between the proposed development and its surroundings.” Commissioners believe that these steps will minimize “undue adverse impacts” from proposed building envelopes, infrastructure, roads, driveways and utility corridors.

A condition of approval requires the applicant to provide the town Zoning Administrator with a wastewater system inspection report on an annual basis. It also says that no further subdivision will be permitted and that the lots will be used only for single family dwellings. Trees will not be cleared outside of the one-half acre “clearing area” on each lot so that the remaining forest will retain its current character.

The applicants and neighbors have 30 days from the date of issuance (July 20) to respond to the decision by agreeing or appealing. The subdivision’s website is www.griffinhillvt.com.