The application for Franklin Perth LLC on Stockton Place captured considerable interest as it sought approval to reconstruct a front porch and replace an existing fabric awning with a permanent roof. The property, situated in a historic district, is characterized by multiple non-conforming conditions, including insufficient lot size, lot width, and parking spaces. Despite these challenges, the board had previously approved similar designs through the Historic Preservation Commission in 2022, though those approvals lapsed due to a misunderstanding about variance requirements.

Legal representation for Franklin Perth LLC, along with an expert engineer, highlighted the property’s historical significance and the proposed enhancements’ aesthetic benefits, emphasizing that the renovations would not exacerbate existing non-conforming conditions. The board engineer corroborated these assertions, recommending the application be deemed complete and noting that the proposed changes aligned with the neighborhood’s architectural character. The board’s unanimous approval underlined a shared view that the porch reconstruction would contribute positively to the area’s historical ambiance without increasing the property’s non-conformities.

Meanwhile, a separate application for a swimming pool installation on Pittsburgh Avenue also drew discussion. The property, featuring a patio encroaching into the front yard setback, required variances due to the pool’s connection to the existing deck. The applicant’s engineer, Brian Murphy, explained that the pool’s strategic placement aimed to respect setback requirements, yet the connection to the deck necessitated a variance under Section 73d of the zoning ordinance.

The board grappled with the technical zoning requirements, particularly the implications of the pool’s proximity to the dwelling and the appropriate interpretation of “connected” as it pertains to zoning definitions. Despite these complexities, the board ultimately supported the application, recognizing the applicant’s willingness to adjust the pool’s dimensions to eliminate the need for multiple variances. The proposal received unanimous approval, contingent on compliance with specified conditions and waivers.

Further dialogue at the meeting included discussions about the demolition and reconstruction of a single-family home on Harbor Lane. The applicants, William and Elizabeth Grace, faced scrutiny over the inadvertent complete demolition of the existing structure, which triggered a stop work order and necessitated new variances due to pre-existing non-conformities. The board sought clarity on the necessity of these variances, given the property’s zoning challenges and the proposed new structure’s alignment with previous approvals.

Board members expressed concerns about the expansion of side yards and the potential impact on zoning compliance, highlighting the complexities of applying zoning regulations to properties with unique location-based hardships. Ultimately, the board’s discussion underscored the need for precise documentation and verification of structural dimensions to ensure adherence to zoning standards.

Public input was solicited, particularly from residents within proximity to the affected properties, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of community impact.