The Clarks’ proposal was for a 12-ft diameter, 52-in height pool with a 4-ft setback from the rear property line, less than the usual 20-ft setback dictated by the Land Development Code. During the deliberation, the board members considered the practical difficulty of complying with the standard setback due to the vegetative area behind the property and the potential impact of the variance on the neighborhood. The applicants had expressed their willingness to preserve the existing palm trees to maintain privacy and the ambiance of the area. However, even with no opposition from neighbors during the public comment period and the staff’s recommendation for approval, the Board concluded that the request did not fully meet the variance criteria. The denial of this variance was underscored by the importance the Board places on adherence to established zoning regulations, despite the unique circumstances presented by property owners.

In addition to the pool variance case, the Board also reviewed a driveway width variance for a property at 104 21st Avenue. The property owner presented a case emphasizing hardship due to the uneven surface of the existing driveway and the need for expansion to utilize the available space effectively. Concerns about the driveway’s impact on the impervious surface ratio and potential flooding were raised, but it was the detailed nature of the property owner’s presentation, including the current use and the proposed design, that drew the Board’s attention.

Another case that garnered attention was a variance request for a property at 150 73rd Avenue, where the property owner aimed to construct a new single-family residence and sought relief from the minimum front yard setback requirement. The Board engaged with the Community Development Director, asking questions and seeking clarification on the specifics of the variance case.

The meeting also included a review of a variance case for a property at 203 77th Avenue. Here, the property owner was looking to build a new single-family residence while requesting relief from the maximum impervious surface coverage.

A text amendment to the Land Development Code related to the definition of “family” was also on the agenda. The Community Development Director introduced the proposed amendment, which aimed at clarifying the term within the Code. The Board’s discussion with the Director showed their attention to legislative detail and the implications such definitions can have on community development.

Additionally, the Board considered a special exception request for the operation of a short-term vacation rental at 404 64th Avenue. In line with previous discussions, the Board’s questions and clarifications highlighted their thorough approach to ensuring that any granted exceptions align with the city’s zoning regulations and community standards.

The meeting also touched on a proposed construction project set to start late next year, taking approximately two and a half years to complete. The design of the building’s facade, intended to mirror a ground storage tank, sparked a debate, particularly concerning the landscaping plan which involved a preference for palm trees over oak trees. The Board’s decision to approve the case was contingent on an updated landscaping plan that addressed the concerns raised.