MEMORANDUM
TO:
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS MEMBERS
FROM:
SARAH VALENTIN, BUILDING COMMISSIONER
SUBJECT:
MARCH 12, 2026 MEETING
DATE:
MARCH 4, 2026
VARIANCE
The Applicant is proposing the construction of a covered front porch addition for the property located at 143 Oak Knoll Drive. The property is in the R4 zoning district, which requires a 25 feet front yard setback. The home is conforming with an existing setback of 30 feet. The Applicant’s proposal would reduce the setback further to 22 feet, a difference of 3 feet from the current setback requirement.
The owner is requesting this variance to create a covered space that will protect the front entrance of her home. This improvement would enhance both the functionality of the entrance and her ability to engage with the surrounding community.
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS
VARIANCE FACTORS
A.
Whether the property in question will yield reasonable return or whether there can be any beneficial use of the property without the variance;
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS:
The property can yield a reasonable return with or without the variance.
B.
Whether the variance is substantial;
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS:
Staff considers this to be a minor variance, adjusting the existing setback of 25 feet to 22 feet. Although this variance would place the home a little closer to the front lot line, the setback would remain consistent with the character of other homes in the neighborhood.
C.
Whether the essential character of the neighborhood would be substantially altered or whether adjoining properties would suffer a substantial detriment as a result of the variance;
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS: