FARMINGTON — Voters unanimously passed a measure Tuesday to streamline the permitting process for building a handicapped accessibility ramp or rail.

The vote amended the zoning ordinance to allow the code enforcement officer to grant permission to build a ramp that is closer to the property line than the zoning ordinance allows. Previously, a homeowner needed to get the permission of the board of appeals for the variance.
 

Town Clerk Linda Grant said the six voters in attendance passed the measure in about five minutes at a special meeting at the town office.

The town is able to amend the ordinance because the Legislature passed a bill that streamlines the approval of accessibility structures, allowing municipalities to authorize their code enforcement officers to issue permits without the board’s approval.

The law was passed because when a person with a disability requires approval to build a ramp that improves access to a home, the delay in the approval process can pose significant hardship.

Voters also agreed to appropriate $14,000 from the unassigned fund balance to repair a failed sewer drain at the town office.

The connecting line from the town office to the sewer at times backs sewage into the basement, according to the meeting warrant.

Kaitlin Schroeder — 861-9252
kschroeder@mainetoday.com


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