HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Comment from Johnson in SupportSupport for ADU Renovation at 1595 Main Street
Date September 13, 2026
To Anna Brigham, Zoning Board of Appeals
Email Anna.Brigham@barnstable.gov
Re ADU renovation of the barn at 1595 Main Street,
West Barnstable
Dear Ms. Brigham and Members of the Zoning Board of Appeals,
I am writing in support of Edith Tonelli's application to renovate the historic barn at 1595 Main Street in
West Barnstable into an accessory dwelling unit.
As both a neighbor who lives on Plum Street, where my family has lived for four generations, and a local
building contractor familiar with the proposed renovation, I believe this project is a thoughtful way to
preserve an approximately 130-year-old structure while providing needed year-round, multigenerational
housing. I have reviewed the project from a contractor's perspective and understand how extensive and
costly the work will be to repair and preserve the existing barn.
The proposed renovation would remain within the barn's current footprint, with no addition or
expansion. Preserving and improving the existing structure is more consistent with the historic
character of the neighborhood than demolishing it and constructing a replacement building. The
exterior improvements have also received approval from the Old King's Highway Historic District
Committee.
The ADU would provide a home for Ms. Tonelli's daughter and son-in-law, allowing them to live nearby
and assist with the round-the-clock care required by Ms. Tonelli's severely disabled adult son. In my
opinion, this is the type of practical, family-supportive housing arrangement that an ADU should
accommodate.
For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Zoning Board of Appeals to approve the requested special
permit. I believe the renovation will preserve an important historic structure, maintain the character of
the surrounding neighborhood, and have a positive impact on the Tonelli family and the West
Barnstable community.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Tim Johnson
Owner / Residential & Commercial Contractor
Johnson Home Building LLC
(774) 238-0836
johnsonhomebuilding@gmail.com