The meeting’s most discussion centered around a proposed development on South Vendom Avenue. The property owners, William and Nicole Solvable, sought multiple variances for building a new single-family home in the S40 zoning district. The variances requested included adjustments for maximum building coverage, minimum rear yard setback, aggregate side yard setbacks, curb cut dimensions, and deck height. Eric Goldstein, representing the applicants, explained that the property’s oversized yet uniquely shaped lot necessitated these variances. As part of their argument, the applicants noted that the current structure was closer to the beach than new regulations would typically permit, emphasizing the need for changes to comply with forthcoming state regulations on beachfront construction.

The project proposed reducing the lot coverage from its existing state, which some board members viewed as a beneficial move towards compliance. Despite the variances requested, the applicants argued that the proposed changes would improve the lot’s current non-compliance issues and potentially benefit the town by adhering to updated flood elevation standards. Additional testimony from experts John Barnhart and Bob Loo provided context on the decision to demolish the existing structure, citing future regulatory challenges and the advantages of a compliant new building.

A point of debate was the height of the proposed deck and the overall elevation of the structure. The proposed finished floor elevation of 18.45 feet aimed to ensure compliance with flood regulations, a prudent measure in light of past flood events in the area. The applicants highlighted the importance of elevating structures to enhance resilience against flooding, drawing parallels with experiences in Atlantic City.

Another notable discussion involved a proposed residential project that included the construction of a pool. The applicant, primarily residing in Pennsylvania, emphasized the therapeutic benefits of the pool for his son, who has multiple diagnoses. The family uses the summer residence in Margate from June to August, and the pool was deemed critical for family bonding and addressing health issues related to overheating. The applicant sought a variance for the rear setback, arguing that the current requirements posed challenges for the pool installation.

Public comments were invited, and local resident Sam Lashman supported the application, noting no detriment to the neighborhood. The board members discussed safety concerns related to the pool’s proximity to the house, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a three-foot perimeter around pools for safety access. Despite these concerns, the board expressed general satisfaction with the proposed changes and variances, ultimately approving the application.

The meeting also addressed a proposed project on North Huntington Avenue, where the applicant sought a variance for a swimming pool with a zero-foot clearance from the house’s edge. Safety concerns were raised regarding the pool’s proximity to windows, but the applicant’s representative clarified design features intended to mitigate potential risks, such as no decks above the pool and limited access from the house. The board and applicant worked to address these concerns, and the motion to approve the application was met with unanimous support.

In another case, Bruce and Randy Pasco sought variances to elevate and renovate their home on North Kenyon Avenue. The proposal included raising the house to comply with new flood elevation regulations and adding additional floors. The variances were primarily due to the vertical expansion rather than encroachment into setbacks. The board discussed concerns about the proposed curb cut width and the need for the existing garage to be removed to allow for parking underneath. Ultimately, while some board members were cautious about adhering to existing setback regulations, the board recognized the unique circumstances and therapeutic needs presented, proceeding to a motion and roll call vote.