The Board of Zoning Appeals met Thursday, February 14, 7:30 p.m., to consider two variance requests, both of which dealt with setback issues.
Members Present: John Gilliss, Michael McGee, Myron Birch, Jesse Speidel, Robert Cherrix, and Donald Thornton.
Members Absent: Arthur Leonard, Chairman
Staff Present: Kenny Lewis, Building and Zoning Administrator,
In the absence of Arthur Leonard, Jesse Speidel served as acting chairman.
Appointed Officials Present: Ray Rosenberger, Chairman of the Planning Commission
The first appeal, from Mr. John Shaft, 8061 Lunn Estates, was to confirm an already existing 18' by 30' carport placed within two feet of the side and rear lot lines. Current zoning requires a five foot setback and limits the size of accessory structures in trailer parks to 96 square feet in area. Mr. Shaft stated that the carport was a Christmas gift from his family, who did not realize that a permit was required.
Mr. Birch said that there was no getting around the fact that the variance request was in clear violation of the code. Mr. Speidel pointed out that it violated the code by a wide margin. Mr.Cherrix was concerned that a variance might have the effect of encouraging people to turn campers into homes. Mr. McGee stated that you can’t do anything that large without a permit. Mr. Thornton moved to deny the appeal and the motion passed unanimously. Accordingly, Mr. Shaft was given 30 days to remove the carport.
The second appeal was a request from Steve Reed of Ocean Builders, agent for Chuck Paluba, 4246 Sunrise Drive Circle, to place a 12" by 16" porch within 30' of the rear lot line. Zoning requires a 35' setback. The area of the porch is less than that of an existing porch which it will replace. Mr. Reed stated that this will allow necessary room around a setting of table and chairs and would also work optimally with standard sizing in building materials. Additionally, the deck is not close to any neighboring buildings. There was no serious opposition to the request. Mr. Birch moved to grant the variance which was approved unanimously.
There was no public comment in either case. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
Notes by Jane Pawelski
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith, is presented as accurately as possible, is thought to be a complete account of the proceedings. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.
