The board examined a request for a variance concerning the construction of a new home on a vacant lot. The applicant sought to reduce the rear yard setback to accommodate the desired square footage. During the public hearing, Gregory Scott, a nearby property owner, voiced his concerns about the drainage impact of new developments, stating, “I have 40 ft between the back of my house and my fence,” and emphasizing how new builds disrupt the natural water flow. Scott, whose property has been in his family since the 1950s, highlighted challenges with water management, particularly after the construction of new homes in the area.

Another resident shared their experience with setback variances. They noted the lack of street drains, which requires maximum land retention for preventing drainage into neighboring yards. This testimony echoed the sentiment that the proposed construction might exacerbate existing drainage problems.

In response, the applicant assured the board and residents that the project would adhere to all necessary drainage requirements. They explained that their intent was to build a family home, not a rental property, and expressed confidence that ongoing water management efforts in the area would alleviate current issues. The applicant clarified they were not seeking preferential treatment but aimed to construct within existing regulations.

The board deliberated on the matter, with some members emphasizing the importance of considering the rear setback’s impact on the environment and water flow. While acknowledging the necessity of adhering to building codes, they also recognized the need to evaluate the proposal’s broader implications for the neighborhood. A board member noted that the circumstances surrounding the request should not stem from actions taken by the applicant, implying that the lot size and current regulations were constraints to be considered.

A motion was made to approve the variance request based on the presented testimony and evidence. The board voted on the motion.

Earlier in the meeting, the board addressed another request, number 24191, concerning the replacement and extension of a front deck on Fort. The applicant, Damon Starky, explained that the existing deck was in disrepair, and the proposal was to replace it within the same footprint. An email from a resident, Stepen Reberry, objected to the reduced setbacks due to limited land space. During the board’s discussion, they debated whether the proposal involved a six-foot extension that could affect the variance approval. An amendment was proposed and passed, limiting the deck to its current dimensions.

The board also considered a request for the property on North 5th Avenue, involving nonconforming setbacks and lot coverage for a single-family dwelling. The applicant explained the constraints of the small lot, which lacked a driveway, and confirmed that a neighbor had no objections. After a public hearing without additional feedback, the board approved the request, finding it met the required variance standards.