Bradley Beach Land Use Board Denies Garage Expansion

In a recent Bradley Beach Land Use Board meeting, a proposed garage expansion on Pacific Avenue took center stage as the board ultimately voted to deny the application, citing the expansion of nonconformity and potential negative impact on the neighborhood. The applicant sought to enclose the area under the existing second-floor canopy and expand the garage to accommodate two cars and storage for bicycles, along with converting the two-bedroom apartment above into a one-bedroom unit. Despite efforts to improve the property aesthetically, the board was divided, with some members expressing reservations about the nonconforming structure’s enlargement and its implications for the community.

The denied garage expansion was not the only topic of interest. Discussions also revolved around the renovation of a property aiming to preserve its historical integrity while modernizing it. The application presented by a homeowner named Glenn plans for a new garage, a wraparound porch, and a second-floor extension. Public concerns were raised about potential deviations from local regulations, specifically regarding the rear setback and the proximity of the new construction to adjacent homes. The applicant’s architect emphasized the intention to respect the property’s character while providing necessary modern amenities.

Further, an application for a renovation project focusing on the front structure of a property was discussed. The renovation would expand the first floor’s living space to the second floor, with no changes to the rear single-story structure. The board scrutinized the proposal, particularly concerning the potential loss of impervious area due to the addition of a new deck and a small entry porch. The applicant confirmed a total of seven bedrooms across the property, with no increase planned for the rear building.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of adhering to building regulations and the legal process, as evidenced by a conversation around the reconstruction of a fire-damaged property. The property owner explained the involvement of the insurance company and the contractor in the rebuilding efforts. However, the lack of necessary permits prompted a discussion about the importance of compliance with building codes and the need for legal advice. The board deferred the application to allow for additional review and consideration.

Additionally, the board addressed a proposed addition to a residential property, debating the expansion of a front porch and the construction of a second-floor deck. Privacy concerns were mentioned due to the close proximity of the deck to the property line. An outdoor shower and the potential for significant interior modifications without returning to the board for approval were also topics of discussion. The plan was postponed to a future meeting date for further deliberation.

Other applications included a property renovation seeking to add a two-story addition, a wraparound porch, and a patio, which saw the board and the public weigh the historical value against the homeowner’s need for additional space. Also, a proposed rear dwelling unit renovation aimed to reduce bedroom count, expand the garage, and realign the roof for potential solar panel installation. In this case, the board voted in favor of the application, recognizing the reduction in density and overall improvements to the property.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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