HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005_09_07 Zoning Board of Appeals Minutes TOWN OF MAMARONECK
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 7, 2005
Present: Thomas E. Gunther, Chairman
Frederick Baron
Linda S. Harrington
Irene D. O'Neill
Arthur Wexler
Also Present: Peter Paden, Counsel
Ronald A. Carpaneto, Director of Building
Denise Carbone, Public Stenographer
Carbone &Associates, LTD
111 N. Central Park Avenue
Hartsdale, New York 10530
Daniela Gerardi, Recording Secretary
APPLICATION NO. 1 —CASE NO. 2672
Application of Chris Dowicz requesting a variance to construct a two-story addition on the
premises located at 53 Edgewood Avenue and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town
of Mamaroneck as Block 125, Lot 171. The addition as proposed has a front yard of 16 ft. where
30 ft. is required pursuant to Section 240-39B(1)for a residence in an R-6 Zone District.
Application stricken from agenda due to improper applicant notification to neighbors. There was
significant discussion with the applicant and the Board's Counsel concerning Notification law
requirements and it was noted that in the absence of full compliance any resolution by the Board
could be contested by others on grounds of an improper hearing. The applicant was advised to
re-notify neighbors as required and the application would be moved till the next Board meeting.
APPLICATION NO. 2—CASE NO. 2673
Application of Susan Wood requesting a variance to construct a fence on the premises located at
296 Murray Avenue and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as
Block 107, Lot 602. The fence as proposed has a height of 6 feet where 4 feet for a front yard and
5 feet for the side and rear are required pursuant to Section 240-52A for a fence in an R-10 Zone
District.
Susan Wood (applicant)approached the Board and stated her desire to erect a 6-foot high stucco
fence on the back and side of the property line. Ms. Wood continued to say the fence is needed
for safety and protection from traffic and to block the noise. Some residents expressed their
concerns with the fence saying they feel that the noise would be redirected toward them if the
wall was built.
The Board requested that the applicant provide them with a building plan for the fence, a
landscaping plan, and a plot plan. The application was adjourned to the September 27, 2005
meeting.
APPLICATION NO. 3—CASE NO. 2674
Application of Duane Reade requesting a use variance in order to obtain a 24 hour permit for
operation of its business on the premises located at 1275 Boston Post Road and known on the
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 2 of 15
Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 412, Lot 449. The use variance is
pursuant to Section 240-30A(1).
Warren Goodman (applicant's attorney)stated the applicant's desire for a Use variance so the
business can operate on a 24 hours basis. Robert Tanes (Duane Reade representative)stated
other businesses in the neighborhood, such as CVS, operate on a 24-hour basis and that Duane
Reade should be given the same opportunity. Neighboring residents registered an objection to
the application based on noise from the air conditioning units, the pickup of garbage during the
early morning hours, and the fact that the planting/screening was never completed. The
neighborhood residents also expressed their concerns about Duane Reade staying in business
since the store is practically empty during the day. The Board adjourned this application to the
next meeting on September 27, 2005, pending the applicant making a sufficient showing
regarding the Zoning Law requirements for a Use Variance.
APPLICATION NO. 4—CASE NO. 2675
Application of Becky and Josh Shapiro requesting a variance to construct new front entry steps
and a sun room on the premises located at 15 Spruce Road and known on the Tax Assessment
Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 115, Lot 348. The front entry steps as proposed have
a front yard of 27.7 feet where 30 feet is required pursuant to Section 240-38B(1), the sun room
over the garage has a side yard of 5.2 feet where 10 feet is required pursuant to Section 240-
38B(2)(a) and further the additions increase the extent by which the building is nonconforming
pursuant to Section 240-69 for a residence in an R-7.5 Zone District.
Application was not heard due to improper notification of neighbors by the applicant and will be
held over till the next Board meeting.
APPLICATION NO. 5—CASE NO. 2676
Application of Thomas Gooley and Polly Kolotas requesting a variance to construct a second floor
master bath and bedroom on the premises located at 47 Fernwood Road and known on the Tax
Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 218, Lot 508. The addition as proposed
has a total side yard of 22 feet where 25 feet is required pursuant to Section 240-37 B.(2)(b), and
further the addition increases the extent by which the building is nonconforming pursuant to
Section 240-69 for a residence in an R-10 Zone District.
Larry Gordon (applicant's architect)approached the Board and stated the applicant's desire to
add a new master bedroom and bathroom. Mr. Gordon continued to say the new proposed
addition walls will align with the existing exterior walls. The Board finds that the record made by
the applicant is sufficient, the benefit to the applicant outweighed any detriment to the health, safety
or welfare of the community or surrounding properties and granted the variance.
CERTIFICATION
As Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Mamaroneck,
I hereby certify that the following is the Resolution adopted by the
Zoning Board of Appeals at the meeting held on September 7, 2005.
CASE NO. 2676—GOOLEY AND KOLOTAS
After review, on motion of Mr. Gunther, seconded by Ms. O'Neill, the following resolution was
proposed and ADOPTED unanimously, 5-0.
RESOLVED, that this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment
pursuant to 6 NYCRR§617 et seq. Accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required.
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 3 of 15
On motion of Ms. O'Neill, seconded by Ms. Harrington, the following resolution was ADOPTED:
WHEREAS, Thomas Gooley and Polly Kolotas submitted an application to the Building
Inspector, together with plans to construct a second floor master bath and bedroom on the
premises located at 47 Fernwood Road and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of
Mamaroneck as Block 218, Lot 508. The addition as proposed has a total side yard of 22 feet
where 25 feet is required pursuant to Section 240-37 B.(2)(b), and further the addition increases
the extent by which the building is nonconforming pursuant to Section 240-69 for a residence in
an R-10 Zone District; and
WHEREAS, the Building Inspector has declined to issue such permit on the grounds that
the plans submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance with
particular reference to Section 240-37 B.(2)(b), and Section 240-69; and
WHEREAS, Thomas Gooley and Polly Kolotas submitted an application for a variance to
this Board for the reasons set forth in such application; and
WHEREAS, this Board has examined the plans, inspected the site, reviewed the
application and has heard all persons interested in this application after publication of a notice
thereof and a hearing thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of the Town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required by New York State Town Law§267-b:
1. The Board finds that the benefit to the applicant outweighs any detriment to the
adjoining properties or community in the vicinity of the house. In reaching this
conclusion, the Board considered the following factors:
A. Whether an undesirable change will be produced in the character of the
neighborhood, or a detriment to nearby properties will be created by the granting of
the area variance:
In this case, the variance that is sought after constructing a second floor master
bath and bedroom would be in keeping with the character of the neighborhood.
The new proposed addition walls will align with the existing exterior walls.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicants can be achieved by some method
feasible to the applicants other than an area variance:
Given the conditions of the house as they presently exist, the Board does not see
any alternates that the applicant can develop on this house without the need for a
Zoning Variance. The addition would increase the extent by which the building is
non-conforming.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial:
It appears that it is in character with the neighborhood and not substantial in
relation to the homes that are around it.
D. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood or district:
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 4 of 15
The Board finds that since the footprint is only minimally being enlarged, the runoff
of this house will be minimal, if at all. The Board finds there will be no impact on air
quality or any other things that will affect the district.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created:
Given again the location of this house being that it was sited on the property given
the fact that footprint basically is not being enlarged that is not self-created,
because of the need and desire of the applicant. The Board finds no self created
condition.
F. The granting of this variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent
of this Ordinance and will not be injurious to the neighborhood or otherwise
detrimental to the public welfare.
G. The variance is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty detailed in the
application yet also preserves and protects the character of the neighborhood and
the health, safety and welfare of the community.
H. The strict application of the Zoning Ordinance and the Town Code would deprive
the applicants of the reasonable use of the land/or building, and the variance
granted by this Board will enable such reasonable use.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the
following conditions:
1. This variance authorizes the construction as shown on the plans presented and no
other.
2. The applicant shall obtain a building permit within six (6) months of the filing of this
Resolution.
3. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within six (6) months
and completed within two (2)years of the date of said permit.
4. Construction shall be in substantial compliance with the plans submitted in
connection with this application.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2)of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 6—CASE NO. 2677
Application of John and Maria Wurpel requesting a variance to construct a one and two story
addition to the side and rear yard on the premises located at 67 Hillcrest Avenue and known on
the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 122, Lot 160. The addition as
proposed has a rear yard of 10.5 feet where 25 feet is required pursuant to Section 240-39B.(3)
and further the addition increases the extent by which the building is nonconforming pursuant to
Section 240-69 for a residence in an R-6 Zone District.
Eric Jacobsen (applicant's architect)approached the Board and stated the applicant is proposing
to build a single story addition and enclose an open air second story porch. Mr. Jacobsen said the
proposed addition includes remodeling the kitchen, adding a family room and bathroom addition,
enlarging a second floor bedroom and remodeling a second floor bath. Mr. Jacobsen continued to
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 5 of 15
say the applicant would not be increasing the existing non-conformities, the porch area and roof
above are in need of repair and currently exist within the setback, and a 10-foot easement exists
on the right side of the property—limiting the additions to that side. The Board finds that the
record made by the applicant is sufficient, the benefit to the applicant outweighed any detriment to
the health, safety or welfare of the community or surrounding properties and granted the variance.
CERTIFICATION
As Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Mamaroneck,
I hereby certify that the following is the Resolution adopted by the
Zoning Board of Appeals at the meeting held on September 7, 2005.
CASE NO. 2677—WURPEL
After review, on motion of Mr. Gunther, seconded by Mr. Baron, the following resolution was
proposed and ADOPTED unanimously, 5-0.
RESOLVED, that this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment
pursuant to 6 NYCRR§617 et seq. Accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required.
On motion of Mr.Wexler, seconded by Mr. Gunther, the following resolution was ADOPTED:
WHEREAS, John and Maria Wurpel submitted an application to the Building Inspector,
together with plans to construct a one and two story addition to the side and rear yard on the
premises located at 67 Hillcrest Avenue and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of
Mamaroneck as Block 122, Lot 160. The addition as proposed has a rear yard of 10.5 feet where
25 feet is required pursuant to Section 240-39B.(3)and further the addition increases the extent
by which the building is nonconforming pursuant to Section 240-69 for a residence in an R-6
Zone District; and
WHEREAS, the Building Inspector has declined to issue such permit on the grounds that
the plans submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance with
particular reference to Section 240-39B.(3) and Section 240-69; and
WHEREAS, John and Maria Wurpel submitted an application for a variance to this Board
for the reasons set forth in such application; and
WHEREAS, this Board has examined the plans, inspected the site, reviewed the
application and has heard all persons interested in this application after publication of a notice
thereof and a hearing thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of the Town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required by New York State Town Law§267-b:
1. The Board finds that the benefit to the applicant outweighs any detriment to the
adjoining properties or community in the vicinity of the house. In reaching this
conclusion, the Board considered the following factors:
A. Whether an undesirable change will be produced in the character of the
neighborhood, or a detriment to nearby properties will be created by the granting of
the area variance:
In this case, the variance that is sought after constructing a one and two story
addition would be in keeping with the character of the neighborhood. The
proposed addition includes remodeling the kitchen, family room, and bathroom;
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 6 of 15
enlarging the second floor bedroom and remodeling the second floor bath. The
proposed single story addition will be 11-feet off the rear property line where 10.5
feet currently exists. The applicant also proposed to enclose an open air second
story porch that is 10.5 feet off rear property line where a 25-foot rear yard variance
is required.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicants can be achieved by some method
feasible to the applicants other than an area variance:
Given the conditions of the house as they presently exist, the Board does not see
any alternates that the applicant can develop on this house without the need for a
Zoning Variance. The addition would not increase the existing non-conformities.
The porch area and roof above are in need of repair and currently exist within the
setback. A 10-foot easement exists on the right side of the property, limiting
additions to that side.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial:
It appears that it is in character with the neighborhood and not substantial in
relation to the homes that are around it.
D. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood or district:
The Board finds that since the footprint is only minimally being enlarged, the runoff
of this house will be minimal, if at all. The Board finds there will be no impact on air
quality or any other things that will affect the district.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created:
Given again the location of this house being that it was sited on the property given
the fact that footprint basically is not being enlarged that is not self-created,
because of the need and desire of the applicant. The Board finds no self created
condition.
F. The granting of this variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent
of this Ordinance and will not be injurious to the neighborhood or otherwise
detrimental to the public welfare.
G. The variance is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty detailed in the
application yet also preserves and protects the character of the neighborhood and
the health, safety and welfare of the community.
H. The strict application of the Zoning Ordinance and the Town Code would deprive
the applicants of the reasonable use of the land/or building, and the variance
granted by this Board will enable such reasonable use.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the
following conditions:
1. This variance authorizes the construction as shown on the plans presented and no
other.
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 7 of 15
2. The applicant shall obtain a building permit within six (6) months of the filing of this
Resolution.
3. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within six (6) months
and completed within two (2)years of the date of said permit.
4. Construction shall be in substantial compliance with the plans submitted in
connection with this application.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2)of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 7—CASE NO. 2678
Application of Westchester Car Wash Group, LLC for the renewal of a variance dated October 20,
2003 to maintain an awning sign at the High Tech car wash facility located at 2434 Boston Post
Road and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 503, Lot
326.1.
Kevin G. Ryan (applicant's attorney)stated the applicant is requesting the renewal of an area
variance dated October 20, 2003 for the maintenance of an awning sign at the High Tech car
wash facility. Mr. Ryan continued to say that no changes will be made to the car wash facility,
including the awning sign. The Board finds that the record made by the applicant is sufficient, the
benefit to the applicant outweighed any detriment to the health, safety or welfare of the community or
surrounding properties and granted the variance.
CERTIFICATION RENEWAL
As Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Mamaroneck,
I hereby certify that the following is the Resolution adopted by the
Zoning Board of Appeals at the meeting held on September 7, 2005.
CASE NO. 2678—RENEWAL/WESTCHESTER CAR WASH, LLC
After review, on motion of Mr. Gunther, seconded by Ms. Harrington, the following resolution was
proposed and ADOPTED unanimously, 4-0.
WHEREAS, this application is a Type II action having no significant impact on the
environment pursuant to 6 NYCRR § 617 et seq. Accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is
required; and
On motion of Mr. Gunther, seconded by Ms. Harrington, the following resolution was ADOPTED:
WHEREAS, Westchester Car Wash, LLC requested a renewal of a variance issued
October 20, 2003 to maintain an awning sign. The awning letters
as exist measure 2.0 ft. in height and the awning numerals as exist measure 1.0 ft. in height where
6 in. is the maximum height permitted for awning graphics pursuant to Section 175-15C of the Sign
Law; and further, the lettering consists of two separate lines where a single line is the maximum for
awning lettering pursuant to Section 175-15C of the Sign Law for a business use in an SB Zone
District on the premises located at 2434 Boston Post Road and known on the Tax Assessment Map
of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 503, Lot 326.1; and
WHEREAS, the Building Inspector has declined to issue such permit on the grounds that
the plans submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance with
particular reference to Section 175-15C; and
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 8 of 15
WHEREAS, High Tech Car Wash submitted an application for an extension of a variance
issued October 20, 2003 to this Board for the reasons set forth in such application; and
WHEREAS, this Board has examined the plans, inspected the site, reviewed the
application and has heard all persons interested in this application after publication of a notice
thereof and a hearing thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of the Town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required by Town Law§175-15 and New York State Town Law§267-b:
1. The Board finds that the benefit to the applicant outweighs any detriment to the
health, safety and welfare of the neighborhood if the variance sought is granted. In
reaching this conclusion, the Board considered the following factors:
A. The variance does not create any undesirable change in the character of the
neighborhood, as it merely permits the continuance of an existing condition;
B. The non-complying condition appears to be the only reasonable alternative,
because the awning, which was replaced after storm damage, cost$15,000.00 and
the letters cannot be removed without replacing the awning;
C. The variance is not substantial;
D. The variance will not have an adverse effect on the environment;
E. The granting of this variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of
this Ordinance and will not be injurious to the neighborhood or otherwise
detrimental to the public welfare;
F. The variance is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty detailed in the
application yet also preserves and protects the character of the neighborhood and
the health, safety and welfare of the community;
G. The strict application of the Zoning Ordinance and the Town Code would deprive
the applicants of the reasonable use of the land/or building, and the variance
granted by this Board will enable such reasonable use.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the subject application be and the same is granted, subject to the
following conditions:
1. This variance shall expire two years from the date hereof in accordance with Town
Code §175-15(c).
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2)of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 8—CASE NO. 2679
Application of Patricia Cayton requesting a variance to legalize an existing 10 foot high fence in
the rear yard on the premises located at 25 Myrtle Boulevard and known on the Tax Assessment
Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 216, Lot 361. The fence as built has a height of 10 feet
where 5 feet is permitted pursuant to Section 240-52A for a fence in an R-6 Zone District.
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 9 of 15
Sharyn Boswell (current home owner)stated to the Board that the original application was
submitted by the previous owner, Patricia Cayton, and she would like to continue with the
application. Ms. Boswell continued to say they are requesting a variance to legalize an existing
10-foot fence in the rear yard. Mrs. Boswell affirmed that the existing rear yard fence provides
noise and visual privacy that both the applicant and the neighbor desire. Julie Doherty(27
Harmon resident)would be happy with a 6-foot fence. The Board approved the legalization of the
fence at 6-feet only. The Board finds that the record made by the applicant is sufficient, the benefit
to the applicant outweighed any detriment to the health, safety or welfare of the community or
surrounding properties and granted the variance.
CERTIFICATION
As Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Mamaroneck,
I hereby certify that the following is the Resolution adopted by the
Zoning Board of Appeals at the meeting held on September 7, 2005.
CASE NO. 2679 -CAYTON/BOSWELL
After review, on motion of Mr. Gunther, seconded by Ms. O'Neill, the following resolution was
proposed and ADOPTED unanimously, 4-0.
RESOLVED, that this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment
pursuant to 6 NYCRR§617 et seq. Accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required.
On motion of Mr. Wexler, seconded by Mr. Baron, the following resolution was ADOPTED:
WHEREAS, Patricia Cayton (Sharon Boswell, the current owner, continued with the
application) submitted an application to the Building Inspector, together with plans to legalize an
existing 10-foot high fence in the rear yard on the premises located at 25 Myrtle Boulevard and
known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 216, Lot 361. The
fence as built has a height of 10-feet where 5-feet is permitted pursuant to Section 240-52A for a
fence in an R-6 Zone District; and
WHEREAS, the Building Inspector has declined to issue such permit on the grounds that
the plans submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance with
particular reference to Section 240-52A; and
WHEREAS, Patricia Cayton submitted an application for a variance to this Board for the
reasons set forth in such application; and
WHEREAS, this Board has examined the plans, inspected the site, reviewed the
application and has heard all persons interested in this application after publication of a notice
thereof and a hearing thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of the Town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings
as required by New York State Town Law§267-b:
1. The Board finds that the benefit to the applicant from the granting of the variance
outweighs the detriment to the health, safety and welfare of the neighborhood or
community. In reaching this conclusion, the Board considered the following
factors:
A. The proposed variance will not produce an undesirable change in the character of
the neighborhood nor will it create a detriment to nearby properties. The Board, in
considering the as built conditions has decided to grant a lesser variance to allow
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 10 of 15
a 6-foot high fence, not the proposed 10-foot high fence. The fence, as now to be
shortened to 6 feet in height, will not create an undesirable change in the
character of the neighborhood. The applicant has agreed to make sure that the
side of the fence which is facing the neighbors is as aesthetically pleasing
visually as the side facing the applicant. The fence is designed to prevent noise
from the nearby Route 95 highway, provide privacy from the neighbors behind
them, and offer safety for small children. There are no properties that would be
impacted except for two neighbors in the back. The Board has been told by one
of the neighbors in the back that they are in favor of this alternate proposal and it
would be beneficial to both parties.
B. Whether the applicant can achieve their goals via a reasonable alternative which
does not involve the necessity of an area variance:
The fence has already been built so in order to meet the height requirement the
applicant would have to cut the fence so it will be lowered to no more than 6 feet
in height. A six-foot fence was granted with the agreement of the neighbors.
C. Whether the variance is substantial:
Given the fact that the applicant feels this fence is necessary for privacy and
noise and it will not impact anyone except for the rear neighbors, the Board
doesn't find it is substantial when it will be cut down to no more than 6 feet in
height. The fence was built illegally by the previous property owner.
D. The Board doesn't find that this variance will have an adverse impact on any
physical or environmental conditions in the neighborhood or district. The Board
has had no negative comments from any neighbors. It won't produce any
additional environmental runoff or other negative conditions in the area.
E. This is not a self-created difficulty, because the previous owner built the fence.
The Board does not find this is a self-created difficulty of the current applicant.
F. The granting of this variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent
of this Ordinance and will not be injurious to the neighborhood or otherwise
detrimental to the public welfare.
G. The variance is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty detailed in the
application yet also preserves and protects the character of the neighborhood
and the health, safety and welfare of the community.
H. The strict application of the Zoning Ordinance and the Town Code would deprive
the applicants of the reasonable use of the land/or building, and the variance
granted by this Board will enable such reasonable use.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the
following conditions:
1. This variance authorizes the construction as shown on the plans presented and
no other.
2. The applicant shall obtain a building permit within six (6) months of the filing of
this Resolution.
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 11 of 15
3. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within six (6)
months and completed within two (2)years of the date of said permit.
4. Construction shall be in substantial compliance with the plans submitted in
connection with this application.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2)of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 9—CASE NO. 2680
Application of David Bader requesting a variance to legalize a covered porch and front steps on
the premises located at 11 McKenna Place and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town
of Mamaroneck as Block 207, Lot 522. The front steps as proposed have a front yard of 19.89
feet where 30 feet is required pursuant to Section 240-37B(1), also the covered porch has a front
yard of 26.39 feet where 30 feet is required pursuant to Section 240-37B(1)for a residence in an
R-10 Zone District.
Sophia Gruzdys (applicant's architect)approached the Board and stated the applicant is
requesting to legalize the 9-foot by 4-foot covered landing and new entrance stairs at the front of
the house. Ms. Gruzdys continued to say the slope of the existing roof is too shallow to
adequately protect from rain and snow and the front steps would provide protection to the
occupants when entering the front of the house. Ms. Gruzdys also stated the proposed
configuration is a modification to the previously approved application, and there is no change in
the proposed area of walks, steps, and patios as previously approved. She also stated the
previously approved semi-circular entrance stairs exceeded the owner's budget and the proposed
stair configuration maintains the previously approved area of walks, steps, and patios. The Board
finds that the record made by the applicant is sufficient; the benefit to the applicant outweighed any
detriment to the health, safety or welfare of the community or surrounding properties and granted the
variance.
CERTIFICATION
As Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Mamaroneck,
I hereby certify that the following is the Resolution adopted by the
Zoning Board of Appeals at the meeting held on September 7, 2005.
CASE NO. 2680— BADER
After review, on motion of Mr. Gunther, seconded by Mr. Wexler, the following resolution was
proposed and ADOPTED unanimously, 5-0.
RESOLVED, that this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment
pursuant to 6 NYCRR§617 et seq. Accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required.
On motion of Mr. Baron, seconded by Mr.Wexler, the following resolution was ADOPTED:
WHEREAS, David Bader submitted an application to the Building Inspector, together with
plans to legalize a covered porch and front steps on the premises located at 11 McKenna Place
and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 207, Lot 522. The
front steps as proposed have a front yard of 19.89 feet where 30 feet is required pursuant to
Section 240-37B(1), also the covered porch has a front yard of 26.39 feet where 30 feet is
required pursuant to Section 240-37B(1)for a residence in an R-10 Zone District; and
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 12 of 15
WHEREAS, the Building Inspector has declined to issue such permit on the grounds that
the plans submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance with
particular reference to Section 240-39B.(3) and Section 240-69; and
WHEREAS, David Bader submitted an application for a variance to this Board for the
reasons set forth in such application; and
WHEREAS, this Board has examined the plans, inspected the site, reviewed the
application and has heard all persons interested in this application after publication of a notice
thereof and a hearing thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of the Town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required by New York State Town Law§267-b:
1. The Board finds that the benefit to the applicant outweighs any detriment to the
adjoining properties or community in the vicinity of the house. In reaching this
conclusion, the Board considered the following factors:
A. Whether an undesirable change will be produced in the character of the
neighborhood, or a detriment to nearby properties will be created by the granting of
the area variance:
In this case, the variance that is sought is to legalize a covered porch and front
steps. In granting the variance for the legalization, the porch and steps the Board
finds that the addition is in character and special alignment with the rest of the
neighborhood. The covered porch would also protect occupants from rain and
snow when entering the front of the house. The 9-foot by 4-foot covered landing
has a front yard of 26.39 feet and the new entrance stairs have a front yard of
19.89 feet.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicants can be achieved by some method
feasible to the applicants other than an area variance:
Given the conditions of the house as they presently exist, the Board does not see
any alternates that the applicant can develop on this house without the need for a
Zoning Variance.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial:
It appears that the proposal is in character with the neighborhood, adjoining
properties and not substantial in relation to the homes that are around it.
D. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood or district:
The Board finds that since the footprint is only minimally being enlarged, the runoff
of this house will be minimal, and all required run off holdings have been met by
the applicant The Board finds there will be no impact on air quality or any other
manner that will negatively affect the district.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created:
The Board finds the construction of the covered porch and front steps were a self-
created condition because it was completed without a variance but granted the
legalization because it was a minor modification. The Board also noted that the
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 13 of 15
addition as built is a technical alteration to reduce building costs, from the plan
previously authorized by the Building Department. The applicant made the
alteration in good faith, assuming the prior approved plans were sufficient evidence
of approval to proceed.
F. The granting of this variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent
of this Ordinance and will not be injurious to the neighborhood or otherwise
detrimental to the public welfare.
G. The variance is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty detailed in the
application yet also preserves and protects the character of the neighborhood and
the health, safety and welfare of the community.
H. The strict application of the Zoning Ordinance and the Town Code would deprive
the applicants of the reasonable use of the land/or building, and the variance
granted by this Board will enable such reasonable use.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the
following conditions:
1. This variance authorizes the construction as shown on the plans presented and no
other.
2. The applicant shall obtain a building permit within six (6) months of the filing of this
Resolution.
3. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within six (6) months
and completed within two (2)years of the date of said permit.
4. Construction shall be in substantial compliance with the plans submitted in
connection with this application.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2)of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 10—CASE NO. 2682
Application of Thomas J. Hory requesting a variance to construct a 6 foot high fence at 1032 Old
White Plains Road and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block
346, Lot 219. The fence as proposed has a height of 6 feet where 4 feet is required pursuant to
Section 240-52A for a fence in an R-20 Zone District.
Thomas J. Hory(applicant) approached the Board and stated his proposal to construct a 5-foot
fence with a 1-foot open topper on the front yard. Mr. Hory continued to say the fence would
provide protection from truck and traffic noise and would discourage wildlife from crossing. Mr.
Hory stated the fence would be placed 18-feet from the curb on the interior of the existing
evergreen hedges and 64-feet from the house. The Board requested the applicant grow plants in
between the 20-foot high green hedges to further soften the impact from the road. The Board
finds that the record made by the applicant is sufficient, the benefit to the applicant outweighed any
detriment to the health, safety or welfare of the community or surrounding properties and granted the
variance.
CERTIFICATION
As Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Mamaroneck,
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 14 of 15
I hereby certify that the following is the Resolution adopted by the
Zoning Board of Appeals at the meeting held on September 7, 2005.
CASE NO. 2682 - HORY
After review, on motion of Mr. Gunther, seconded by Ms. Harrington, the following resolution was
proposed and ADOPTED unanimously, 4-0.
RESOLVED, that this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment
pursuant to 6 NYCRR§617 et seq. Accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required.
On motion of Ms. Harrington, seconded by Mr. Baron, the following resolution was ADOPTED:
WHEREAS, Thomas J. Hory submitted an application to the Building Inspector, together
with plans to construct a 6-foot high fence on the premises located at 1032 Old White Plains
Road and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 346, Lot
219. The fence as proposed has a height of 6 feet where 4 feet is required pursuant to Section
240-52A for a fence in an R-20 Zone District; and
WHEREAS, the Building Inspector has declined to issue such permit on the grounds that
the plans submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance with
particular reference to Section 240-52A; and
WHEREAS, Thomas J. Hory submitted an application for a variance to this Board for the
reasons set forth in such application; and
WHEREAS, this Board has examined the plans, inspected the site, reviewed the
application and has heard all persons interested in this application after publication of a notice
thereof and a hearing thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of the Town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings
as required by New York State Town Law§267-b:
1. The Board finds that the benefit to the applicant from the granting of the variance
outweighs any detriment to the health, safety and welfare of the neighborhood or
community. In reaching this conclusion, the Board considered the following
factors:
A. Whether an undesirable change will be produced in the character of the
neighborhood, or a detriment to nearby properties will be created by the granting
of the area variance: The Board, in granting the variance to install a 6-foot high
fence finds that the fence will not create an undesirable change in the character
of the neighborhood because of its planned placement location. The fence will
reduce truck and traffic noise to the homeowner and prevent wildlife from coming
directly onto their property and mitigating the danger of a traffic collision between
deer and car/truck traffic in that area. The proposed fence will be a 5-foot solid
green wood fence with a 1-foot open topper. The fence will be placed 18-feet
from the curb on the interior of the existing 20-foot evergreen hedge. The fence
will be screened by the Arborvitae trees. The fence will be 64-feet from the
house. The Board requested the applicant grow small greenery in between the
Arborvitae trees to further soften the impact from the road.
B. Whether the applicant can achieve their goals via a reasonable alternative which
does not involve the necessity of an area variance:
Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Board Minutes
September 7, 2005
Page 15 of 15
The applicant could not reduce the noise from trucks and traffic or get protection
from wildlife and the danger they present without the proposed fence.
C. Whether the variance is substantial:
Given the fact that the applicant feels this fence is necessary for privacy,
protection from wildlife, and to reduce noise from trucks and traffic, and that fact
that it will be placed well back from the road and behind a tall row of existing
trees the Board doesn't find it is substantial.
D. The Board does not find that this variance will have an adverse impact on any
physical or environmental conditions in the neighborhood or district. The Board
has had no negative comments from any neighbors. It will not produce any
additional unwanted environmental runoff.
E. The Board does not find the fence is a self-created difficulty because it is needed
for protection from wildlife, and to reduce noise from an increased amount of
commercial traffic on the road.
F. The granting of this variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent
of this Ordinance and will not be injurious to the neighborhood or otherwise
detrimental to the public welfare.
G. The variance is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty detailed in the
application yet also preserves and protects the character of the neighborhood
and the health, safety and welfare of the community.
H. The strict application of the Zoning Ordinance and the Town Code would deprive
the applicants of the reasonable use of the land/or building, and the variance
granted by this Board will enable such reasonable use.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the
following conditions:
1. This variance authorizes the construction as shown on the plans presented and
no other.
2. The applicant shall obtain a building permit within six (6) months of the filing of
this Resolution.
3. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within six (6)
months and completed within two (2)years of the date of said permit.
4. Construction shall be in substantial compliance with the plans submitted in
connection with this application.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2)of the Town Law.
ADJOURNMENT
Daniela Gerardi
Secretary to Zoning Board