The Board of Adjustment’s meeting saw the approval of a practical difficulty variance for an addition to a garage. The applicant presented an overview of the proposed renovations, which included a bathroom relocation, kitchen extension, and porch enclosure. After considering the unique layout of the lot and the applicant’s adjustments to adhere to landscaping conditions, the board approved the variance with the staff’s recommended conditions.

Another case discussed at the meeting was a variance request involving the height of fencing. The applicant, Mr. O’Neal, sought approval for an 8-foot fence that would align with a neighboring property while maintaining a 6-foot fence in other areas. The board engaged in a thorough discussion regarding the visual impact and the precedent that could be set by approving varying fence heights. The staff recommended a consistent 6-foot fence within the required 20-foot front yard setback. The applicant and the board debated the feasibility of this recommendation, with the applicant highlighting the desire for visual consistency and addressing concerns about the project’s impact on the neighborhood.

The board also deliberated on a separate request to install an 8-foot high fence on another property. The discussion focused on the aesthetics and functionality of the proposed fence, taking into account the adjacent properties and the overall appearance of the neighborhood. There were suggestions for alternative designs, such as angled transitions between different fence heights, to address the impact of future property sales and conformity with code requirements. The applicant agreed to comply with the board’s decision.

Additionally, the board approved a variance for a detached garage setback. The applicant, Paul Stein, highlighted discrepancies between the pre-construction and post-construction surveys, which revealed a setback violation. The board approved Stein’s request, allowing the garage to remain in its current location despite the setback infringement.