Howell Zoning Board Approves Porch Variance Despite Yard Setback Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
The Howell Zoning Board meeting on December 8th, 2025, centered on the approval of a variance request by Gary and Valerie Endinger for the construction of a front porch that encroaches into the required front yard setback. The board also discussed scheduling for the 2026 meeting calendar and addressed minor zoning violations related to an unimproved roadway.
The primary focus of the meeting was the application by Gary and Valerie Endinger to build a front porch at their property on Lakeside Drive. The proposed addition would reduce the front yard setback from the required 25 feet to less than 19 feet. During the discussion, the applicant’s representative argued that the porch would enhance the visual appeal of the property without negatively impacting the surrounding area. The representative also noted that the variance would not affect sight lines due to existing vegetation and emphasized that the porch’s impact was minimal compared to other, more intrusive requests the board has received.
The board members raised concerns about existing structures on a nearby unimproved roadway, Louise Terrace, which were technically in violation of zoning regulations. These included a patio and shed that were confirmed to belong to the applicant. As a condition of approval, the board required the shed to be relocated onto the applicant’s property and stipulated that if the township ever decides to improve Louise Terrace, the patio would need to be moved at the property owner’s expense.
Additionally, the board approved the 2026 meeting schedule, resolving potential conflicts due to holidays on certain dates. The decision was unanimous, with board members agreeing that the dates appeared suitable for the upcoming year.
John Leggio
Zoning Board Officials:
Glenn Cantor, Thomas O’Donnell, Jose Orozco, Richard Mertens, Matthew Hughes III, Nicholas Borrillo, Michael Ryan, Annmarie Scottson (Alternate 1), John Kabourakis (Alternate 2)
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
12/08/2025
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Recording Published:
12/09/2025
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Duration:
15 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Howell
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