The council meeting’s primary focus was a variance application for a property located on Hawthorne, where the applicants, Dan Marso and his wife Gina, sought approval to expand their home to accommodate their family’s needs. The application proposed to increase the lot coverage to 27.7%, aligning with a historical precedent in the Twin Acres subdivision, which has consistently applied a 30% coverage rule since the mid-1980s. This proposal, while exceeding the ordinance’s stipulated 15%, adheres to the established resolution for the subdivision.

The Marsos, along with their planner Barbara Allen, outlined their plans to enhance their living space by expanding the home and adding an in-ground pool. They are addressing floor area ratio variances and setbacks due to the unique positioning of their corner property. The proposed expansion includes an increase in floor area, from the current 2,012 square feet to approximately 3,291 square feet, surpassing the permitted floor area ratio of 20% to 24.53%. Allen emphasized that the design accounts for the property’s distinct angles, requiring specific variances for floor area and front yard setbacks.

In conjunction with the variance applications, stormwater management was a topic of discussion. The proposed expansions would add 500 to 600 square feet of impervious surface, raising concerns about potential flooding issues. The council emphasized the need for a well-thought-out drainage plan to prevent adverse impacts on neighboring properties. Suggestions included installing rain gardens or dry wells and redirecting roof drainage to catch basins, with a consensus on the necessity of careful grading to redirect water away from vulnerable areas.

The application also addressed drainage issues related to the pool and the importance of ensuring that stormwater remains on-site. The council underscored that any runoff should not enter the street or stream corridor, and applicants were advised to collaborate with their engineer to develop a suitable solution. The potential for erosion during construction was also highlighted, with the need for erosion control measures to prevent sediment runoff.

The council acknowledged that controlled and thoughtful development aligns growth with community aesthetics, balancing the need for additional living space with the preservation of the neighborhood’s character.