Neighbors near this house located at 13 Point Grove Road in Southwick have expressed concern over how many residents might reside in the home as well as chickens and at least one goat allegedly roaming the property. (File photo by Frederick Gore)
SOUTHWICK – Neighbors of 13 Point Grove Road submitted a citizen’s petition to the Southwick Planning Board asking for a revision of bylaws pertaining to livestock on residential property.
In April, the neighbors complained about the homeowner and the number of animals on the property to the Board of Selectmen.
A tall fence, goats and rabbits, unregistered vehicles, and too many dwellers in the home were their chief complaints.
Building Inspector Denis Gaido said at that time he was aware of the concerns and everything at the home was fine.
“They’re doing everything they’re supposed to be doing,” said Gaido. “As far as zoning and everything goes, they’re okay.”
Last night Planning Board Chairman Douglas Moglin said the bylaw concerning livestock states the animals can be kept in a lot not less than 100-feet from the street and an adjacent dwelling.
Board Vice Chairperson Roz Terry said the neighbors may be happy with a word change that states the animals need to be 100-feet from the homeowner’s own property line, rather than the next house.
The petitioners did not submit a specific request, Terry said, so the board was not able to take up the petition last night.
Moglin said he would like the group to come to the August meeting to discuss the outcome.
“Or a spokesperson could come,” Terry said.
The board wondered if they should invite Animal Control Officer Tracy Root to the meeting but Moglin said the concern is a zoning issue.
In April, Root said she received several complaints about goats and other animals at the home in the past week. Root said the homeowners appear to be within their rights.
“They are in the Residential-20 zone, which allows for livestock on properties over 40,000 square-feet,” said Root. “That property is 40,075 square-feet.”
Root said the law allows up to 25 poultry on a property that size.
“They can also keep goats and saddle horses,” Root said.
The board agreed to incite the petitioners to attend the Aug. 5 meeting.
