01:39The primary focus of the meeting was the contentious variance request to reduce the side setback from 16 feet to 5.71 feet for a carport on Chestnut Street, owned by Melissa Frank. The proposed structure, intended to cover an RV and a small boat, sparked debate about compliance with local codes and the demonstration of hardship necessary for approval. The staff had initially deemed the setback reduction reasonable but recommended against exceeding the maximum allowable size of 600 square feet for accessory structures. Despite this, the applicant expressed the need for a larger structure.

55:56Danny Miller, a neighboring property owner, voiced strong opposition, questioning the applicant’s claim of hardship and emphasizing potential negative impacts on surrounding properties. He argued that the request was more about convenience than necessity and suggested it could set a dangerous precedent.

20:45Further complicating matters were procedural issues, including a lack of notification to nearby residents and confusion over the number of existing accessory structures on the property. Some residents criticized the applicant’s site plan for not accurately depicting these structures, and concerns about the proposed carport’s height and appearance were also raised. A retired architect described the proposed 18-foot-tall structure as incompatible with the neighborhood and a potential “eyesore” that could negatively affect property values.

01:35:42The commission discussed the option of continuing deliberations to allow the applicant to submit additional evidence of hardship and a revised design. The need for architectural consistency with the existing neighborhood was emphasized, with suggestions for landscaping to soften the visual impact of the proposed carport. Ultimately, the commission decided to continue the discussion at a future meeting, giving the applicant time to address these concerns.

02:11:23In addition to the variance request, the meeting addressed efforts towards historical preservation, particularly the New Moon Lodge, a building significant to African-American heritage. Participants discussed the challenges of finding a qualified grant writer and the feasibility of restoring the building, which has been vacant for over a decade and is in severe disrepair. Concerns about the financial implications of such a restoration were raised, with suggestions for demolishing the building due to its poor condition. The need for a plan for the building’s future use was highlighted as essential for securing funding.

02:34:16The meeting also included updates on historical surveys and the importance of updating the historic preservation ordinance to access additional funding. The idea of establishing a certified local government was discussed as a means to secure further grants.