The meeting also oversaw the election of new leadership, with Owen Curley taking the chair and Jeff Truhlar being elected as vice-chair. The Board tackled a series of variance requests ranging from parking space adjustments to lot coverage and setback regulations. Each case presented unique circumstances that justified the board’s approval, albeit with attached conditions in some instances.

One notable case involved a homeowner who had made various renovations without obtaining the necessary permits, including the addition of an outdoor kitchen and pergola. The homeowner, facing personal life changes, sought to rectify the situation by requesting a variance. The Board granted the variance with a 50% lot coverage, a reduction from the originally requested 63.3%.

Another case revolved around a property on North 15th Street, where the applicant sought variances to address nonconformities with an existing single-family dwelling and associated uses. The board’s deliberation focused on various setbacks and lot coverage. Although the outcome was not explicitly stated in the transcript provided, the case exemplifies the board’s engagement with complex zoning issues.

Further deliberations included a request by Rick Johnston for variances related to a building on Ocean Drive South. The request encompassed parking aisle width, back-out parking into a city alley, and the use of turf blocks for parking and landscaping. After discussions regarding the building’s use and parking situation, the board approved the variance request.

Another property owner, Donald E. Hodes Jr., sought variances for parking area setback, rear yard setback, and lot coverage to facilitate the construction of a new rear covered porch and office addition. Hodes Jr. presented the board with the reasoning behind the need for additional parking space and office expansion. The board considered the special circumstances and minimal nature of the changes before approving his request.

In a further demonstration of the board’s discretion, the meeting included the approval of a variance for a property on Hopson Road. Applicant David Caldwell requested a variance for lot coverage to replace a gravel driveway with pavers. The board approved the request, amending it to reflect a 39% lot coverage.

Moreover, the representative L.T. Hansen presented a request for a variance at 610 9th Avenue North, which would allow for the absence of a garage or carport in lieu of the required structures. The board approved this variance request as well.

In addition to the variance discussions, the board acknowledged the departure of Alexi Gonzalez, who had served for over four years. The board expressed gratitude for Gonzalez’s contributions to the city.

The meeting concluded with a planning department report outlining the agenda for upcoming meetings.