HomeMy WebLinkAboutboa_12 09 2019LITTLE ROCK BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
SUMMARY OF MINUTES
DECEMBER 9, 2019
2:00 P.M.
I.Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum
A Quorum was present being five (5) in number.
II.Approval of the Minutes of the Previous Meetings
The Minutes of the October 28, 2019 meeting were
approved.
Members Present: Frank Allison -Chairman
Richard Bertram -Vice Chair
Austin Grinder
Joe Justus
Carolyn Lindsey Polk
Members Absent: None
City Attorney Present: Sherri Latimer
LITTLE ROCK BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
AGENDA
DECEMBER 9, 2019
2:00 P.M.
I.OLD BUSINESS:
A Z-9461 2100 Country Club Lane
II.NEW BUSINESS:
1.Z-9364-A 1801 N. Harrison Street
2.Z-9392-A 10 Turtle Creek Lane
3.Z-9474 5 Westchester Cove
4.Z-9475 5420 Centerwood Road
5.Z-9476 2819 N. Fillmore Street
6.Z-9477 5401 Southwood Road
7.Z-9478 5224 Hawthorne Road
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: A
File No.: Z-9461
Owner: Franks Joint Revocable Trust
Applicant: Ellen Yeary
Address: 2100 Country Club Lane
Description: Lot 1 and part of Lot 2, Block 3, Country Club Heights Addition
Zoned: R-2
Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the area provisions of Section
36-254 to allow a building addition with reduced rear setback.
Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter.
Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential
Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential
STAFF REPORT
A.Public Works Issues:
No Comments
B.Staff Analysis:
The R-2 zoned property located at 2100 Country Club Lane is occupied by a two-
story brick and frame single family residence. The property is located at the
northwest corner of Country Club Lane and Stonewall Road. A driveway from
Stonewall Road at the southwest corner of the property serves as access and leads
to a carport at the west end of the residence.
The applicant proposes to construct two (2) additions to the existing residence and
a swimming pool within the rear yard area, as noted on the attached site plan. A
screened porch addition is proposed on the north side of the residence. This
addition will maintain a 7.5 foot side setback and will be located over 25 feet back
from the rear (west) property line. The applicant also proposes to enlarge and
enclose the existing carport portion of the residence, converting the area to a
garage. The existing carport will be enlarged to the west, with a small golf cart
garage portion on the west end of the addition. The garage addition will be located
14 feet to 21 feet from the south side property line and 5.5 feet from the west (rear)
property line. A 15 foot by 20 foot swimming pool will also be constructed near the
northwest corner of the property. It will be located six (6) feet from the principal
structure, three (3) feet from the rear (west) property line and 13.5 feet from the
south side property line.
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: A (CONT.) Z-9461
Section 36-254(d)(3) of the City's Zoning Ordinance requires a minimum rear
setback of 25 feet for this R-2 zoned lot. Therefore, the applicant is requesting a
variance to allow the garage addition with a reduced rear setback.
Staff is supportive of the requested variance to allow a reduced rear setback. Staff
views the request as reasonable. Only the golf cart garage portion of the addition
will be located 5.5 feet from the rear (west) property line. The main body of the
garage will be located 16 feet back from the rear property line. The proposed
addition with reduced rear setback will not be out of character with the neighborhood.
There are other residences within this general area which have been added onto
with reduced rear setbacks. Staff believes the proposed garage addition with
reduced rear setback will have no adverse impact on the adjacent properties or the
general area.
C.Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the requested rear setback variance, as filed.
Board of Adjustment (October 28, 2019)
Staff informed the Board that the application needed to be deferred to the December 9,
2019 agenda, due to the fact that the applicant failed to complete notifications to
surrounding property owners as required.
The item was placed on the consent agenda and deferred to the December 9, 2019
agenda. The vote was 3 ayes, O noes and 2 absent.
Board of Adjustment (December 9, 2019)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the
application with a recommendation of approval. There was no further discussion.
The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved, as recommended by staff.
The vote was 5 ayes, 0 noes and O absent.
2
Yeary Lindsey Architects
September 30, 2018
Mr. Monte Moore
Department of Planning and Development
723 West Markham
Little Rock, AR 72201
Re: Hayden and Lynne Franks Variance Request
2100 Country Club Lane
Little Rock, AR 72207
Dear Monte,
Please find attached our submittal to the Little Rock Board of Adjustments requesting a rear
yard setback variance for the property at 2100 Country Club Lane.
Our clients are asking to be allowed to reduce the rear yard setback for an addition to convert
an existing carport to a garage structure with an attached golf cart garage. This addition to the
west end of the house would reduce the rear yard setback from 25' to 5.5' from the west
property line. The existing carport structure will be expanded to accommodate 2 cars with
separate garage doors and the golf cart structure will be substantially less than the full depth of
the proposed garage. A variance is needed so that the existing carport in its' present location
may be converted to a garage with an entry stair from the garage level to first floor level
mudroom to the east of the garage. The golf cart garage is only 16' x 10' and will be pushed
toward the north 7' from the south face of the proposed garage.
If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact me. We
appreciate your consideration of our request.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Ellen Yeary, AIA
3416 Old Cantrell Road Little Rock, Arkansas 72202 501-372-5940 Fax: 501-663-0043
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 1
File No.: Z-9364-A
Owner/Applicant: Christopher and Charlotte Gomlicker
Address: 1801 N. Harrison Street
Description: Northwest corner of N. Harrison Street and Cantrell Road
Zoned: R-2
Variance Requested: Variances are requested from the area provisions of Section
36-156 to allow an accessory structure with reduced side
setback and increased rear yard coverage.
Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter.
Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential
Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential
STAFF REPORT
A.Public Works Issues:
No Comments.
B.Staff Analysis:
On October 29, 2018, the Board of Adjustment approved the applicant's request to
allow construction of a 24.2 foot by 27 foot garage within the rear yard area of this
lot. The garage was proposed to be located eight (8) feet from the rear property line
and 8.5 feet from the street side (Cantrell) property line. The garage was to cover
39 percent of the required rear yard area.
Section 36-156(a)(2)c. of the City's Zoning Ordinance requires that accessory
structures in residential zones be located at least 15 feet from street side property
lines. This same section also allows a maximum rear yard coverage of 30 percent.
Staff supported the requested variances as not being out of character for the
neighborhood. It was also noted that the Hillcrest DOD, located not far to the south,
allowed 40 percent rear yard coverage.
The structure has been constructed as approved. It was subsequently discovered
by staff that the applicants added a 9.7 foot by 21.4 foot unenclosed, lean-to cover
onto the north side of the new garage building. The addition is built to within ½ foot
of the north side property line. The code requires a three (3) foot side yard.
December 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 1 (CONT.) Z-9364-A
The addition has also increased the rear yard coverage to 56 percent, well above
the allowable 30 percent and the 39 percent previously granted by the Board.
Staff is not supportive of this new variance request. Although the lean-to addition is
unenclosed, the resulting rear yard coverage substantially exceeds the prior Board
approval and exceeds the rear yard coverage that is typical for the area.
Additionally, the slope of the roof and its proximity to the side property line may result
in water run-off onto the neighboring property.
C.Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends denial.
Board of Adjustment (December 9, 2019)
Staff informed the Board that the applicant requested this application be deferred to the
January 27, 2020 agenda. Staff supported the deferral request.
The item was placed on the consent agenda and deferred to the January 27, 2020
agenda. The vote was 5 ayes, 0 noes and 0 absent.
2
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 2
File No.: Z-9392-A
Owner: KATV, LLC
Applicant: Mark Rose
Address: 10 Turtle Creek Lane
Description: Northwest corner of Turtle Creek Lane and Riverfront Drive
Zoned: O-3
Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the tower provisions of Section
36-201 to allow a ground-mounted broadcast tower which
exceeds the maximum height allowed.
Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter.
Present Use of Property: General Office
Proposed Use of Property: General Office and Broadcast Studio
STAFF REPORT
A.Public Works Issues:
No Comments
B.Landscape and Buffer Issues:
1.Site plan must comply with the City's minimal landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2.All existing landscape areas and mature vegetation to remain shall be
protected as per City of Little Rock Landscape Ordinance (Sec. 15-100). Any
trees or vegetation located in close proximity to construction shall have the
area within the dripline fenced and protected from development activities. Any
existing landscape or irrigation disturbed by construction shall be repaired or
replaced before completion and final acceptance of the project.
3.The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing trees
as feasible on this site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or
larger.
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 2(CON'T.) Z-9392-A
C.Staff Analysis:
The 0-3 zoned property at 10 Turtle Creek Lane is occupied by a two-story office
building located within the south half of the overall 3.98 acre property. The
property is located on the north side of Turtle Creek Lane, between Brookwood
Drive and Riverfront Drive. A driveway from Turtle Creek Lane and a driveway
from Brookwood Drive serve as access to the property. Paved parking is located
on the south and west sides of the building. The north half of the overall property is
undeveloped and grass covered.
Sinclair Broadcast Group/KA TV has acquired this property at 10 Turtle Creek
Lane, with the intent of relocating their broadcast studio from its current location at
410 Main Street. As part of the relocation, the applicant proposes to construct a
11 O foot tall broadcast tower within the undeveloped, north portion of the property,
as noted on the attached site plan. The proposed tower will be a self-supporting
metal truss frame tower. The proposed tower will be located well over 100 feet
back from the building and all property lines. The tower structure finish will be
galvanized steel. A small antenna or dish will be attached to the tower structure
near the top, but will not extend past the top of the 110 foot tall tower.
Section 36-201(e)(1)a. of the City's Zoning Ordinance allows a maximum tower
height of 75 feet for metal ground-mounted towers. Therefore, the applicant is
requesting a variance to allow the proposed tower with increased height.
Staff is supportive of the requested tower height variance. Staff views the request
as reasonable. The proposed tower height of 110 feet will not be out of character
with the heights of other buildings and tower structures in this general area. Signal
Media Radio at 2400 Cottondale Lane has a 154 foot tall broadcast tower. There
are also several multi-story buildings in this area along Riverfront Drive. The
applicant notes that studies were conducted and it was determined that the absolute
minimum tower height that will work for this location is 110 feet. Staff believes the
proposed 110 foot tall tower at this location will have no adverse impact on the
adjacent properties or the general area.
Earlier this year, Sinclair filed for a tower height variance to allow a 100 feet tall
tower. After the item was deferred through a couple of Board meetings, Sinclair
withdrew the application. They subsequently obtained a building permit and
constructed a tower within the allowable height limit of 75 feet. Design of the tower
is such that, if approved, the additional height can be added on to it.
D.Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the requested tower height variance.
2
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 2(CON'T.) Z-9392-A
Board of Adjustment (December 9, 2019)
Mark Rose, Joe White and Patrick Spivey were present, representing the application.
There were several objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommendation
of approval.
Mark Rose addressed the Board in support of the application. He explained that the
need for the additional tower height was to reach the Regions Bank building downtown
with a signal. He explained the search for a new location for the broadcast studio and
reasons for choosing this location.
Patrick Spivey, representing Sinclair Broadcast Group, also spoke in support. He
described the proposed tower height and the broadcast needs for this location. He
explained the signal options which were explored for the broadcast studio. He noted
that the existing signal media tower in the area is over 150 feet in height.
Joe White also spoke in support. He presented graphics/photos to the Board depicting
the proposed tower height and explained the graphics/photos. He explained that the
proposed tower height would be compatible with other structures, poles, trees, etc. in
the area. He explained that the proposed tower height would not block the view of the
river from properties to the west. The graphics and proposed tower height were briefly
discussed.
Bill Brierley addressed the Board in opposition. He objected to the fact that the
proposed tower would be lattice-type construction, and further explained his objection.
Bob McKuin also spoke in opposition. He noted that he would be interested to know
what broadcast options had been explored by KA TV. He explained the history of the
proposed tower to be located at this location. He discussed other broadcast options
which were available. He explained that the proposed tower would have an adverse
impact on other properties in the area.
Jim Gaston also spoke in opposition. He described development in the Riverdale area
and the history of the area. He noted that the tower would not be compatible with the
area.
Jack Cherry also spoke in opposition. He explained that the tower would not be
compatible with the area. He noted that the applicant should have met with the
residents in the area.
Mr. Spivey explained that the persons who were opposed did not want a tower on the
property. Austin Grinder asked if KATV had considered other broadcast alternatives.
Mr. Spivey explained that the microwave broadcast tower was the best option for this
location. There was brief additional discussion. Mr. McKuin made additional comments
related to the use of fiber optics instead of microwave broadcast.
There was a motion to approve the application as recommended by staff. The motion
passed by a vote of 3 ayes, 2 noes and O absent. The application was approved.
3
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 3
File No.: Z-9474
Owner: Latrice Goodgame Special Needs Trust
Applicant: Chris Ford, First Security Bank
Address: 5 Westchester Cove
Description: Lot 34, Westchester Subdivision, Phase Ill
Zoned: R-2
Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the fence provisions of Section
36-516 to allow a fence which exceeds the maximum height
allowed.
Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter.
Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential
Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential
STAFF REPORT
A.Public Works Issues:
No Comments
B.Staff Analysis:
At some point, prior to the current property owner acquiring the property in 2011, the
rear yard of the single family residential property at 5 Westchester Cove was
enclosed with an eight (8) foot tall wood privacy fence.
Section 36-516 of the zoning ordinance limits the height of fences in residential
zones to six (6) feet. No variance was approved for the increased fence height.
By 2016, the fence had become old and dilapidated. The applicant paid to have
new, replacement fencing installed in October 2016. The new fence was
constructed to the same dimensions and in the same location as the previous fence.
However, the contractor failed to obtain a permit for the new fence and no variance
was given to allow the eight (8) foot tall fence. The issue came to the City's attention
in mid 2019 and the applicant was advised to seek a variance.
Staff is supportive of the requested variance. In addition to the justification
presented by the applicant, eight (8) feet tall rear yard fences are becoming
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 3 (CON'T.) Z-9474
somewhat more common. It is not a request that is unusual. Apparently, an eight
(8)foot tall fence existed on the site for a number of years; enough so that the fence
had become old and dilapidated. Allowing the new fence, of the same height and in
the same location, appears to staff to be a reasonable request.
C.Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the requested fence height variance subject to
compliance with the following conditions:
1.Compliance with Public Works comment in paragraph A.
2.A building permit must be obtained for the fence.
Board of Adjustment (December 9, 2019)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the
application with a recommendation of approval. There was no further discussion.
The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved, as recommended by staff.
The vote was 5 ayes, 0 noes and O absent.
2
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 4
File No.: Z-9475
Owner: Brizzolara Living Trust and Etal
Applicant: Aristo Brizzolara
Address: 5420 Centerwood Road
Zoned: R-2
Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the area provisions of Section
36-156 to allow an accessory structure with a reduced front
setback (double frontage lot).
Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter.
Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential
Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential
STAFF REPORT
A.Public Works Issues:
No Comments
B.Staff Analysis:
The R-2 zoned property located at 5420 Centerwood Road has frontage on three
(3)streets; Wildwood (side), Centerwood (front) and "O" Street (rear). It is classified
as a double frontage lot. The applicants are requesting approval of a variance to
allow for construction of a 10 foot by 12 foot storage building at the rear of the
property, adjacent to the "O" Street perimeter.
Section 36-156 of the City's Zoning Ordinance requires accessory buildings in
residential zones to have a setback of at least 60 feet from the front property line.
For double frontage lots, the setback requirement applies to both frontages.
Staff is supportive of the requested variance. Apparently, there has been a smaller
storage building in this location for some time. The building is virtually hidden from
view from "O" Street by dense vegetation along the perimeter of the site. "O" Street
functions much like an alley along the rear of the properties which front onto
Centerwood. Most of the properties along Centerwood have accessory structures
at the rear of their lots, adjacent to "O" Street. There are no residential properties
across "O" Street which face onto "O" Street. An elementary school campus
occupies the block across from this property. The couple of residences on "O" Street
to the northeast front to the side streets.
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 4 (CONT.) Z-9475
C.Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the requested setback variance, subject to the
accessory building being set back enough from the property line so that the
overhang does not extend into the "O" Street right-of-way.
Board of Adjustment (December 9, 2019)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the
application with a recommendation of approval. There was no further discussion.
The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved, as recommended by staff.
The vote was 5 ayes, 0 noes and O absent.
2
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 5
File No.: Z-9476
Owner: Jeff Fuller Homes, LLC
Applicant: Jeff Fuller
Address: 2819 N. Fillmore Street
Description: Lot 1, Block 16, Park View Addition
Zoned: R-3
Variance Requested: Variances are requested from the area provisions of Section
36-156 to allow an accessory structure with a reduced street
side setback and an increased rear yard coverage.
Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter.
Present Use of Property: Single Family Residence (under construction)
Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential
STAFF REPORT
A.Public Works Issues:
No Comment
B.Staff Analysis:
A new single family residence is currently under construction on this R-3 zoned lot.
The house complies with all required setback. The applicant is proposing to
construct a detached, two-car garage in the rear yard area. The 22'2" X 23' garage
will occupy 45% of the required rear yard and is proposed to have a street side yard
setback of five (5) feet (aligning with the new house). Section 36-156 of the Zoning
Ordinance limits the rear yard garage to 30% and requires a street side yard
setback of 15 feet for accessory structures.
Staff is supportive of the requested variances. The lot is only 45 feet in width,
reducing the available rear yard area. A 22 x 23 garage is not much more than the
minimum needed to accommodate two vehicles. The resulting overall lot coverage
and massing is not out of character with the newer homes in this neighborhood.
Ampersand is a lightly traveled street. Allowing the reduced street side yard setback
so that the garage lines up with the house does not appear to have an impact on the
traffic or on other properties.
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 5 (CONT.) 9476
The property is located in the Heights Landscape Design Overlay District. However
the building permit was issued for the house prior to the effective date of the
ordinance and the DOD standards do not apply to accessory structures.
C.Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the requested rear yard coverage and setback
variances.
Board of Adjustment (December 9, 2019)
Jeff Fuller was present, representing the application. There were three (3) objectors
present. Staff presented the application with a recommendation of support and noted e-
mails in opposition were received.
Jeff Fuller addressed the Board in support of the application. He described the
proposed accessory garage structure to the Board.
Sara Beth Hughes addressed the Board in opposition. She noted that Mr. Fuller
overbuilds the lots in the area and clear cuts the lots he develops. She noted that some
properties in the area did not have garages.
Kim Bowman also spoke in opposition. She read an e=mail that she submitted to staff.
She expressed concern with reduced building setbacks in the area with respect to
pedestrian traffic along the roadways. In response to a question from the Board, Ms.
Bowman noted that her concern was with vehicles backing out of the proposed garage.
Natalie Capps also spoke in opposition. She also read an e-mail which she submitted
to staff regarding the proposed variance request.
Mr. Fuller explained that no neighbors had contacted him with concerns since the
required notifications were mailed out. He noted that he could not always meet the
demands of surrounding property owners. In response to a question from the Board,
staff explained that there was additional space between the property line and the edge
of street pavement. Ms. Capps made additional statements in opposition.
There was a motion to approve the application, as recommended by staff. The motion
passed by a vote of 3 ayes, 2 noes and O absent. The application was approved.
2
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 6
File No.: Z-9477
Owner: Gardner Custom Homes, Inc.
Applicant: Steve L. Gardner
Address: 5401 Southwood Road
Description: Lot 222, Prospect Terrace Addition No. 3
Zoned: R-2
Variance Requested: A variance is requested from the area provisions of Section 36-
254 to allow a new residence with a reduced side setback.
Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter.
Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential
Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential
STAFF REPORT
A.Public Works Issues:
No Comments
B.Staff Analysis:
The applicant is proposing to construct a new, two-story single family residence on
this R-2 zoned lot. The new home will replace a circa 1953 home. The applicant is
requesting a variance to allow the new home to have a three (3) foot side yard setback
on the west perimeter of the site. The existing home now has that same three (3) foot
setback. The zoning ordinance requires a six (6) foot setback for this lot.
The applicant states it is his desire to utilize the current poured concrete stem wall
foundation that is in place and tied to a rock retaining wall that is built between this
property and the rock steps leading down to the city park adjacent to the west.
Staff is supportive of the request. Utilizing the existing foundation wall on this steeply
sloped lot seems reasonable. The property adjacent to the west is a developed city
park. Allowing the reduced side yard will not impact the adjacent property.
The property is located within the newly adopted Heights Landscape Design Overlay
District. The applicant is required to provide two, 2 ½ inch or greater shade producing
trees in the front yard setback area. Trees are to be selected from the list within the
DOD provisions. While there is no requirement to preserve trees, credit can be given
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 6 (CONT.) Z-9477
for any trees designated as preserved in the setback area. Location and type of trees
are to be indicated on the plans submitted at the time of building permit.
C.Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the requested side yard setback variance, subject to
compliance with the Heights Landscape DOD.
Board of Adjustment (December 9, 2019)
The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the
application with a recommendation of approval. There was no further discussion.
The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved, as recommended by staff.
The vote was 5 ayes, 0 noes and O absent.
2
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 7
File No.: Z-9478
Owner: Garry Mertins and John Benton Dyke, JR.
Applicant: Carolyn Lindsey
Address: 5224 Hawthorne Road
Description: Lot 6, Block 4, Newton's Addition
Zoned: R-2
Variance Requested: Variances are requested from the area provisions of Section
36-156 and 36-254 and the fence provisions of Section 36-
516 to allow accessory structures with reduced setbacks and
increased coverage, a building addition with a reduced side
setback and a fence with increased height.
Justification: The applicant's justification is presented in an attached letter.
Present Use of Property: Single Family Residential
Proposed Use of Property: Single Family Residential
STAFF REPORT
A.Public Works Issues:
1.Provide a dimensioned plan showing the width of the right-of-way. Dimensions
must be given for the distance between both the west and east curbs or edges
of pavement.
2.Revise the proposed driveway to include a five (5) foot radius at either side.
3.Revise the proposed driveway so that the driveway and radius do not extend
past the northern property line.
4.Appendix D of the International Fire Code requires that a minimum width of
twenty (20) feet be provided for fire access. If street parking is not restricted,
the street must be wide enough to allow passage of a fire apparatus with
parked cars present on either side of the street. Provide a dimensioned plan
which shows adequate access for a fire apparatus.
5.Any proposed modifications to the public right-of-way, including, but not limited
to, curb, gutter, sidewalk, and streets must be constructed to City of Little Rock
Public Works Department standard details.
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 7 (CONT.) Z-9478
6.All conditions of approval are contingent upon approval of the proposed right
of-way abandonment. The Public Works does not approve of the construction
of walls or other obstructions within the public right-of-way. Installation of
unapproved improvements may be subject to removal at the expense of the
property owner.
B.Staff Analysis:
The R-2 zoned property at 5224 Hawthorne Road is occupied by a circa 1936, one
story, frame, single family residence. The applicants are proposing a complete
remodeling of the house, including two small additions onto the rear portion of the
house. The project also includes the addition of a 9' x 24' swimming pool and a 13'
x 1 O' x 40' double-shack, single-width garage. The applicants are proposing an 8'
tall painted brick or stucco wall with gate between the house and the garage.
The proposed garage is to have a rear yard setback of 1 '6" and a street side yard
setback of 4'. When the cover of the garage is combined with the portion of the pool
which extends into the rear yard area, the two accessory structures result in a rear
yard coverage of 49%. The code limits the rear yard coverage to 30%. The garage
is proposed to have a street side yard setback of 4' so as to be more in line with the
house. The code requires accessory structures in residential zones to have at least
a 15' street side yard setback and a setback from the rear property line of 3'. The
addition onto the northwest corner of the rear of the house is proposed to maintain
the existing side yard setback of 6". The code requires a side yard setback of 5' for
this lot. The proposed 8' wall extends 1' into the side yard setback and exceeds the
allowable height of 4'. Variances are requested to allow the reduced setbacks and
rear yard coverage percentage for the garage and pool, the reduced side yard
setback for the addition onto the house and the increased height for the wall between
the house and garage.
The applicant had originally proposed some improvements in the area of the
Harrison Street right-of-way, which might follow a potential request to abandon a
portion of the right-of-way. Thus, Public Works comments. Those elements have
been removed from the plan and no action on this application relates to any potential,
off site issues.
Staff is supportive of the requested variances. The property is somewhat unusual
in that it is located just south of the terminal of the Harrison Street right-of-way, where
it enters the St. John's Campus at a secondary entrance. The side and rear of the
property are really isolated from the rest of the neighborhood. Staff does not believe
the requested variances will impact any other properties.
The property is located within the Heights Landscape Design Overlay District. The
DOD criteria are tied to construction of a new residence or to addition onto an
existing residence exceeding 600 square feet. They are not tied to construction of
accessory structures. The proposed additions onto the house total about 370 square
feet.
2
DECEMBER 9, 2019
ITEM NO.: 7 (CONT.) Z-9478
C.Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the requested variances, subject to compliance with
the Public Works comments in Paragraph A.
Board of Adjustment (December 9, 2019)
Garry Mertins was present, representing the application. There were two (2) persons
present in opposition. Staff presented the application with a recommendation of approval.
Garry Mertins addressed the Board in support of the application. He explained the
proposed project, noting that the existing house would be remodeled. He explained that
the proposed double-stacked garage would act as screening for the property to the north.
Lindsey Watson-Allen addressed the Board in opposition. She explained that she wished
to have at least a three (3) foot setback for the proposed garage structure immediately
south of her property. She presented photos of the properties to the Board. She noted
that the applicant was overbuilding the lot. The issue of street side setback was briefly
discussed. Ms. Allen made additional comments in opposition.
Ryan Caststeel, representing Ms. Allen, also spoke in opposition. He made comments
related to the intent of the ordinance with respect to the number of variances which could
be requested.
Mr. Mertins explained that the proposed garage would have no adverse impact on the
adjacent properties. He noted that the roofline of the proposed garage would be no taller
than Ms. Allen's house. Mr. Mertins stated that a three (3) foot rear setback would be
provided for the accessory garage structure and revised the application accordingly. Mr.
Caststeel noted that Ms. Allen was acceptable with the revised rear setback of three (3)
feet.
A motion was made to approve the application as revised and recommended by staff.
The motion passed by a vote of 4 ayes, 0 noes, 0 absent and 1 abstention (Lindsey-Polk).
The application was approved.
3
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT VOTE RECORD
DATE: 1 z,, ,I c; ,It 1
1MEMBER
ALLISON, FRANK
BERTRAM, JAMES
GRINDER, AUSTIN
JUSTUS, JOE
LINDSEY POLK, CAROLYN
TIME IN AND TIME OUT
,\LLISON, FRANK All :11 J
BERTRAM, JAMES :2,:00 �M-
3RINDER, AUSTIN
IUSTUS, JOE
JNDSEY POLK, CAROLYN
JAYE •NAVE
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A ABSENT ...ch-ABSTAIN Meeting Adjourned PJ--P.M.
DECEMBER 9, 2019
There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 4:03
p.m.
Date:------------
Chairman Secretary