A Senna Street resident dedicated to training therapy dogs and rescuing animals from high-kill shelters will now have the legal room to expand her efforts after the Zoning Board of Appeals cleared a pathway for a personal kennel license. Liza Napoli Chanette, a former elementary school teacher who works with the Governor Winslow school in Marshfield, originally appeared before the board seeking permission to house five dogs—one more than the state’s current four-dog limit for households without a license.

Chanette explained that her current pack includes two rescues and two therapy dogs, and that she hopes to eventually establish a sanctuary for animals often facing euthanasia in other states. Most surrounding towns have a kennel license in place, but from what I hear is Pembroke is working on one, Chanette told the board. When we retire, it's our hope that we start a sanctuary for rescue dogs.

Recognizing the community value of the work, Vice Chair Christopher McGrail suggested increasing the permitted number beyond the applicant's original request to provide a safety net for emergency fostering. I think it's a fantastic thing you're doing, McGrail said. I was going to personally say... maybe juice the number a little bit. God forbid somebody needs an emergency foster or this or that... give yourself a buffer. Member Ryan MacDonald noted that the Planning Board is currently moving to align town bylaws with Ali’s Law, a state measure regarding the humane treatment of dogs in kennels. Motion Made by C. McGrail to permit L. Chanette to house no more than 10 dogs at 537 Senna Street subject to future town licensing authority. Motion Passed (3-0-0).

The board also addressed the growing demand for multi-generational housing by granting a variance for a new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) at 46 Plymouth Street. Kristen Malm sought 15 feet of relief from rear yard setback requirements to build a home for her 83-year-old mother, who can no longer afford to live in Norwell. When we found out about the ADU, we had done our septic 10 years ago—thank God they talked us into doing a five-bedroom—we are now building her an ADU, Malm said.

The discussion touched on the complexities of new state ADU regulations, which were adopted at the May Town Meeting but remain in a period of transition while awaiting final approval from the Attorney General. Member David Lee questioned how the project fit within existing 900-square-foot limits in the zoning bylaws, while MacDonald clarified that the board holds the authority to act under the new state mandates. Anyone who is requesting an ADU, they're going right to the building department to request their permit, MacDonald said. They don't have to deal with 'in-laws' anymore.

Vice Chair McGrail noted the evolving nature of these projects, including state requirements for HERS insulation ratings and all-electric utilities which limit gas appliances in new ADUs. The language with ADUs is very vague because they're very new, McGrail observed. Because it's in its infancy, it'll continue to evolve and it'll become more clear. I'm inclined myself to grant the relief needed. Motion Made by C. McGrail to grant 15 feet of relief for an ADU at 46 Plymouth Street, resulting in a 10-foot rear yard setback. Motion Passed (3-0-0).

In other business, the board formally finalized its records from earlier in the summer. Motion Made by C. McGrail to approve the meeting minutes of Monday, July 21st, 2025. Motion Passed (3-0-0).