HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016_11_30 Zoning Board of Appeals Minutes THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE ZONING BOARD
OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK, NOVEMBER 30,2016
HELD IN CONFERENCE ROOM C,OF THE TOWN CENTER
740 WEST BOSTON POST ROAD, MAMARONECK, NEW YORK
Roll Call.
Present:Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Also Present: Lisa Hochman, Counsel
Absent/Excused:Jeffery King, Evans Simpson,John H. Landi, Building Inspector,Tom Murphy,Town
Board Liaison.
MINUTES
APPLICATION NO. 1 -CASE NO.3036-Josh Freidfertig-42 Villa Road—Public Hearing
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
Josh Freidfertig,the applicant, stated that he is requesting a variance for the 4 air conditioning units that
were installed last summer.
Mr. Wexler asked why they were installed in the present location. Mr. Freidfertig responded because of
the location of the patio and to maximize the efficiency of the units.
The Board discussed the placement of the units
Public Comments
Simon Sumberg,the neighbor on the left, complained that they are 15 feet from an open porch on his
mother's property and would create noise.
Mr. Wexler stated that the left side is actually legal and all four units could be placed there legally.
A letter from the owner of 36 Villa, in favor if soundproofing being installed was read into the record.
Mr. Wexler asked what the DBA level is for all units.
Mr. Marsh stated that he is in favor of placement of the units as shown on the plan because they will
not cycle as much as they would if placed all on the same side of the house.
Mr. Wexler stated that only the right side requires a variance.
1
It was suggested that the applicant return with a new plan either moving the units to one side or moving
the units closer to the house for less of a variance.
Motion: To adjourn the matter to January 4, 2017
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
APPLICATION NO. 3-CASE NO. 3044-Taubenfeld—16 Maplewood—Public Hearing(continued)
Rick Yestadt, the applicant's architect, addressed the Board stating that the new proposal meets the
coverage requirement and they are now only asking for a side yard variance. The additional square
footage is 12 square feet.
The Board discussed the application.
There were no public questions or comments.
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
Motion:To approve the requested variance
Action:Approved
Moved by Jonathan Sacks, seconded by, Irene O'Neill
Vote: Motion passed (summary:Yes=3, No= 0,Abstain = 1).
Yes: Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh.
Abstain:Arthur Wexler, Chairman.
After review, on motion of Jonathan Sacks, seconded by Irene O'Neill the following resolution was
proposed and adopted unanimously, (3-0, Abstain 1).
Ayes Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Nays: None
WHEREAS, Stephen Taubenfeld, (the "Applicant") requested a variance for a two story rear
push out, platform and steps on the premises located at 16 Maplewood Street and known on the Tax
Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 118, Lot 350; and
2
WHEREAS,the Building Director declined to issue such permit on the grounds that the plans
submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance (the "Zoning Code")with
particular reference to Sections 240-38B(1)(a), 240-37B(2)(b), and 240-69; and
WHEREAS,the Applicant submitted to this Board an application for relief from setback
requirements from the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS,the Board 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 public hearing
thereon; and
WHEREAS,this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment pursuant to
6NYCRR§617 et. seq. and accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required, and
WHEREAS,the Zoning Board of the town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required; and
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 detriment to nearby properties will be created by granting of the variance.
The Board finds that granting the variance will not produce an undesirable change in the
character of the neighborhood or detriment to nearby properties because it will not
increase existing lot coverage and the additional bulk is only 12 square feet.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some means feasible to
the applicants other than an area variance.
The Board finds that the benefit sought by the applicant cannot be achieved by some
method feasible to the applicant not requiring a variance because there is no other
location for the steps.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The Board finds that the variance is not substantial as it is only 12 Square feet and does
not increase the existing lot coverage.
D. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood.
The Board finds that the variance will not adversely impact the local physical or
environmental conditions because the lot coverage will not increase over existing
3
conditions,the steps are over an existing impervious area and the addition will not
generate any additional noise, light or runoff.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created.
The Board finds that the difficulty is self-created, but that this factor is not
determinative under the circumstances presented.
2. For the reasons stated above, the granting of the variance is in harmony with the general
purposes and intent of the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance and will not be injurious
to the neighborhood or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare.
3. For reasons stated above,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.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the following
conditions:
GENERAL CONDITIONS
1. This variance is limited to the construction shown on the submitted plans as conditioned
and/or modified in accordance with the direction of the Board as agreed to by the Applicant.
2. The Applicant shall submit plans reflecting any conditions or modifications as above for the
review and approval of the Building Inspector prior to the granting of the building permit.
3. The Applicant shall obtain a building permit within (6) months of the filing of this resolution.
4. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within (6) months.
5. Construction shall be in compliance with the plans submitted in connection with this
application, as conditioned or modified pursuant to the direction of the Board.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2) of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 4-CASE NO.3045- Pam and Jonathan Weinberg—Public Hearing(continued)
Rick Yestadt and Mr. Weinberg were present and addressed the Board, requesting a variance for three
air conditioning condenser units in the side yard.The original house had a unit in the same location and
two new units were added. The closest adjacent house is 55 feet away and 6 feet higher in elevation.
The room in the rear was discussed and Mr. Weinberg stated they have purchased a new window to
make that room compliant as a bedroom, making the location of the AC units in that location
unacceptable.
The Board discussed the location of the units and the DBA.
4
There were no public questions or comments.
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
Motion:To approve the requested variance
Action:Approved
Moved by Irene O'Neill, seconded by Jonathan Sacks
Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary:Yes=4).
Yes:Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh.
After review, on motion of Irene O'Neill, seconded by Jonathan Sacks the following resolution was
proposed and adopted unanimously,4-0).
Ayes Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Nays: None
WHEREAS, Pam and Jonathan Weinberg, (the "Applicant") requested a variance for the
installation of 3 new air conditioning condenser units on the premises located at 22 Winged Foot Drive
and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 204, Lot 300; and
WHEREAS,the Building Director declined to issue such permit on the grounds that the plans
submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance (the "Zoning Code")with
particular reference to Sections 240-35B(2)(a), 240-35B(2)(b), and 240-69; and
WHEREAS,the Applicant submitted to this Board an application for relief from setback
requirements from the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS,the Board 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 public hearing
thereon; and
WHEREAS,this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment pursuant to
6NYCRR§617 et. seq. and accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required, and
WHEREAS,the Zoning Board of the town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required; and
5
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 detriment to nearby properties will be created by granting of the variance.
The Board finds that granting the variance will not produce an undesirable change in the
character of the neighborhood or detriment to nearby properties because the units are
are sufficiently far(55 feet) and higher(6 feet)than nearest impacted neighbor. In
addition,the Board noted that a fence, berm and plantings provide sound insulation and
visually buffer the units.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some means feasible to
the applicants other than an area variance.
The Board finds that the benefit sought by the applicant cannot be achieved by some
method feasible to the applicant not requiring a variance because the proposed location
minimizes the impact to neighbors and the only other potential location would be
infeasible because it is adjacent to a bedroom.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The Board finds that the variance is not substantial relative to the large size of the
property and the significant distance to the most effected neighbor.
D. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood.
The Board finds that the variance will not adversely impact the local physical or
environmental conditions because the DBA level (60) is low and the homeowner intends
to shield the units with evergreens.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created.
The Board finds that the difficulty is self-created, but that this factor is not
determinative under the circumstances presented.
2. For the reasons stated above, the granting of the variance is in harmony with the general
purposes and intent of the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance and will not be injurious
to the neighborhood or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare.
6
3. For reasons stated above,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.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the following
conditions:
GENERAL CONDITIONS
1. This variance is limited to the construction shown on the submitted plans as conditioned
and/or modified in accordance with the direction of the Board as agreed to by the
Applicant.
2. The Applicant shall submit plans reflecting any conditions or modifications as above for
the review and approval of the Building Inspector prior to the granting of the building
permit.
3. The Applicant shall obtain a building permit within (6) months of the filing of this
resolution.
4. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within (6) months.
5. Construction shall be in compliance with the plans submitted in connection with this
application, as conditioned or modified pursuant to the direction of the Board.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2) of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 5-CASE NO. 3046-Greg Notch—58 Moran Place—Public Hearing
Greg Notch, owner, and Brian Smith of Sila Air, addressed the Board requesting to legalize two air
conditioning units in the front yard. Mr. Smith stated that there was no other place to put the units as
the rear yard has a patio, there is a walkway and the left side of the house is very close to the neighbors
and non-conforming. Substantial screening has already been planted. Mr. Smith further stated the
units are high efficiency with a DBA rating of 70 and noted that the closest neighbor is on the other side
of the street.
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
The Board discussed the application.
There were no public questions or comments.
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action:Approved
7
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
Motion:To approve the requested variance
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Jonathan Sacks.
Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary:Yes=4).
Yes:Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh.
After review, on motion of Arthur Wexler, seconded by Jonathan Sacks the following resolution was
proposed and adopted unanimously, (4-0).
Ayes Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Nays: None
WHEREAS, Greg Notch (the "Applicant") requested a variance to legalize 2 new air conditioning
condenser units on the premises located at 58 Moran Place and known on the Tax Assessment Map of
the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 504, Lot 51; and
WHEREAS,the Building Director declined to issue such permit on the grounds that the plans
submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance (the "Zoning Code")with
particular reference to Sections 240-37B(2)(a), 240-37B(2)(b), and 240-69; and
WHEREAS,the Applicant submitted to this Board an application for relief from setback
requirements from the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS,the Board 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 public hearing
thereon; and
WHEREAS,this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment pursuant to
6NYCRR§617 et. seq. and accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required, and
WHEREAS,the Zoning Board of the town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required; and
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 detriment to nearby properties will be created by granting of the variance.
8
The Board finds that granting the variance will not produce an undesirable change in the
character of the neighborhood or detriment to nearby properties because the units are
relatively quiet,well screened and placed in an area which functions as a side yard with
no adjacent neighbor
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some means feasible to
the applicants other than an area variance.
The Board finds that the benefit sought by the applicant cannot be achieved by some
method feasible to the applicant not requiring a variance because the property is
burdened with two front yards and any other location would reduce the efficiency of the
units because they are further from the handler.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The Board finds that the variance is not substantial because the units are considered
small and the DBA level is low.
D. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood.
The Board finds that the variance will not adversely impact the local physical or
environmental conditions because the units are visually screened and the noise impact
will be negligible because of the low DBA of the units.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created.
The Board finds that the difficulty is self-created, but that this factor is not
determinative under the circumstances presented.
2. For the reasons stated above, the granting of the variance is in harmony with the general
purposes and intent of the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance and will not be injurious
to the neighborhood or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare.
3. For reasons stated above,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.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the following
conditions:
GENERAL CONDITIONS
9
1. This variance is limited to the construction shown on the submitted plans as conditioned
and/or modified in accordance with the direction of the Board as agreed to by the Applicant.
2. The Applicant shall submit plans reflecting any conditions or modifications as above for the
review and approval of the Building Inspector prior to the granting of the building permit.
3. The Applicant shall obtain a building permit within (6) months of the filing of this resolution.
4. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within (6) months.
5. Construction shall be in compliance with the plans submitted in connection with this
application, as conditioned or modified pursuant to the direction of the Board.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2) of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 6.-CASE 3047-Frank Alexander—66 Sherwood Drive-Public Hearing
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
Paul Noto the applicant's attorney, addressed the Board,to legalize the existing garage. Mr. Noto
explained that the garage was there when Mr. Alexander bought the property in 2004 and he has since
rebuilt it as it was falling apart.
The Board discussed the request and noted that the neighbor's garage is also nonconforming
Mr. Noto showed a 1964 survey showing the garage and old shed on the property.
Mr. Sacks stated that there is a slab throughout the whole garage and it is properly pitched.
Mr. Wexler stated that the Board has never had an application of an accessory structure from one side
to the other side of the property.
Mr. Sacks stated that he would like to see a topographical from GIS with a view of impact from Lundy as
well as letters from the neighbors.
There were no public questions or comments.
The matter was adjourned to January 4, 2017
APPLICATION NO.-CASE NO.3048-William Spinner—2 Vine Road—Public Hearing
Motion: To open the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
10
William Spinner,the applicant, addressed the Board requesting a variance for two air conditioning
condenser units and explained why there are no alternative locations on the property. The units are
behind a fence and screened with bushes. The DBA is 75.
The Board discussed the request.
There were no public questions or comments.
Motion: To close the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Jonathan Sacks.
Motion: To approve the requested variance
Action:Approved
Moved by Irene O'Neill, seconded by Stephen Marsh
Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary:Yes=4).
Yes:Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh.
After review, on motion Irene O'Neill, seconded by Stephen Marsh the following resolution was
proposed and adopted unanimously, (4-0).
Ayes Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Nays: None
WHEREAS, William Spinner(the "Applicant") requested a variance for the installation of 2 air
condition condenser units on the premises located at 2 Vine Road and known on the Tax Assessment
Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 107, Lot 340; and
WHEREAS,the Building Director declined to issue such permit on the grounds that the plans
submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance (the "Zoning Code")with
particular reference to Sections 240-37B(1) and 240-69; and
WHEREAS,the Applicant submitted to this Board an application for relief from setback
requirements from the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS,the Board 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 public hearing
thereon; and
WHEREAS,this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment pursuant to
6NYCRR§617 et. seq. and accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required, and
11
WHEREAS,the Zoning Board of the town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required; and
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 detriment to nearby properties will be created by granting of the variance.
The Board finds that granting the variance will not produce an undesirable change in the
character of the neighborhood or detriment to nearby properties because the proposed
location is far from neighbors and tucked away into an alcove and partially shielded
from view.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some means feasible to
the applicants other than an area variance.
The Board finds that the benefit sought by the applicant cannot be achieved by some
method feasible to the applicant not requiring a variance because the proposed location
is furthest from neighbors and therefore presents the least impact.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The Board finds that the variance is not substantial because it is placed in an alcove and
not intrusive to the neighbors.
D. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood.
The Board finds that the variance will not adversely impact the local physical or
environmental conditions because runoff will be minimal, noise will be buffered and it
will be partially screened from view.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created.
The Board finds that the difficulty is self-created, but that this factor is not
determinative under the circumstances presented.
2. For the reasons stated above, the granting of the variance is in harmony with the general
purposes and intent of the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance and will not be injurious
to the neighborhood or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare.
12
3. For reasons stated above,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.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the following
conditions:
GENERAL CONDITIONS
1. This variance is limited to the construction shown on the submitted plans as conditioned
and/or modified in accordance with the direction of the Board as agreed to by the Applicant.
2. The Applicant shall submit plans reflecting any conditions or modifications as above for the
review and approval of the Building Inspector prior to the granting of the building permit.
3. The Applicant shall obtain a building permit within (6) months of the filing of this resolution.
4. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within (6) months.
5. Construction shall be in compliance with the plans submitted in connection with this
application, as conditioned or modified pursuant to the direction of the Board.
This decision shall be filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2) of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 3050 -CASE NO. 8-Jonathan and Cindy Clare—22 Edgewood—Public Hearing
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
Diane Neff,the applicant's architect, addressed the Board, stating they are reducing the house on one
side to widen the driveway and decreasing coverage from 50%to 48%. The owner gave a letter from
neighbors in support of the plan and it was entered into the record and marked Exhibit 1.
The Board discussed the requested variance,the percentage of coverage and the nonconforming
driveway on the property line and noted that it is necessary to back out of the driveway
There were no public questions or comments
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Jonathan Sacks.
Motion:To approve the requested variance
Action:Approved
13
Moved by Stephen Marsh, seconded by Irene O'Neill
Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary:Yes=4).
Yes:Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh.
After review, on motion of Stephen Marsh, seconded by Irene O'Neill the following resolution was
proposed and adopted unanimously, (4-0).
Ayes Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Nays: None
WHEREAS, Jonathan and Cindy Clare (the "Applicant") requested a variance for a small
addition and renovation of the property on the premises located at 22 Edgewood Avenue and known on
the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 123,Lot 304; and
WHEREAS,the Building Director declined to issue such permit on the grounds that the plans
submitted failed to comply with the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance (the "Zoning Code")with
particular reference to Sections 240-39B(2)(a), 240-39B(2)(b), 240-39F and 240-69; and
WHEREAS,the Applicant submitted to this Board an application for relief from setback
requirements from the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS,the Board 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 public hearing
thereon; and
WHEREAS,this is a Type II action having no significant impact on the environment pursuant to
6NYCRR§617 et. seq. and accordingly, no further action under SEQRA is required, and
WHEREAS,the Zoning Board of the town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required; and
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 detriment to nearby properties will be created by granting of the variance.
The Board finds that granting the variance will not produce an undesirable change in the
character of the neighborhood or detriment to nearby properties because there is a
increase in the side yard setback on the left side from 7 feet to 10 feet, no change on
the right and a slight reduction in impervious area.
14
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some means feasible to
the applicants other than an area variance.
The Board finds that the benefit sought by the applicant cannot be achieved by some
method feasible to the applicant not requiring a variance because the house is
preexisting nonconforming and there is no alternative that would achieve their goals to
increase the house and widen the driveway.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The Board finds that the variance is not substantial because they are reducing coverage
from 50%to 48%and the side yard setback will be increased from 7 to 10 feet.
D. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood.
The Board finds that the variance will not adversely impact the local physical or
environmental conditions because there will be no increase to light, sound or runoff.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created.
The Board finds that the difficulty is self-created, but that this factor is not
determinative under the circumstances presented.
2. For the reasons stated above, the granting of the variance is in harmony with the general
purposes and intent of the Town of Mamaroneck Zoning Ordinance and will not be injurious
to the neighborhood or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare.
3. For reasons stated above,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.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that the subject application be and the same is GRANTED, subject to the following
conditions:
GENERAL CONDITIONS
1. This variance is limited to the construction shown on the submitted plans as conditioned
and/or modified in accordance with the direction of the Board as agreed to by the Applicant.
2. The Applicant shall submit plans reflecting any conditions or modifications as above for the
review and approval of the Building Inspector prior to the granting of the building permit.
15
3. The Applicant shall obtain a building permit within (6) months of the filing of this resolution.
4. The building permit shall be void if construction is not started within (6) months.
5. Construction shall be in compliance with the plans submitted in connection with this
application, as conditioned or modified pursuant to the direction of the Board.
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.3051-57 Harrison Drive Corp.—Public Hearing
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action:Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Seconded by Irene O'Neill.
Paul Noto,the applicant's attorney, addressed the Board requesting a variance for insufficient lot width
for the vacant property in the R 7.5 zone.
Frank Grippi,the applicant's architect, showed the proposed house and its relation to neighboring
properties. He further stated that there are other properties in the area that are only 55-60 feet wide.
Mr. Wexler explained to the public why the variance is required.
Mr. Sacks questioned the slope, which was stated to be 20 degrees.
Mr. Noto stated that the house will be zoning compliant.
Public comments
Carol Carozza, a neighbor, stated that her back yard abuts the lot on top of a hill, and the subject
property was denuded of trees.
Leo Tomczyk, the owner, stated he spoke to the previous building inspector and was given permission to
cut trees
David Becker of 1 Robins Nest, stated that street frontage and width is too small because its 20 feet less
than required by Town Code. He further stated that the undeveloped property has a small level area,
and the removal of the hill will cause erosion of the cul du sac behind. He further stated that 30 mature
trees were removed causing increased wind flow. He further stated that he and the neighbors believe
the property cannot support the house, as the property was always maintained as a green space by the
previous owner. He further stated that rock removal will be required.
Mr. Sacks asked the public why they feel it is not valid building lot.
Edward Mitchell of Nobile, Magarian & DiSalvo law firm stated that the lot was originally part of a 57
parcel subdivision.
16
Mr. Sacks stated that the parcels were not contiguous and were separate tax lots with a 5-foot strip in
the middle.
Ms. Carozza stated that the houses that are on narrow lots where built before 1960 and the applicant
was well aware of the zone when the lot was purchased. She further stated that when she sits on her
deck she will be looking into windows.
Martin Mertils of 2 Cottage Circle referenced many narrow lots that were here long before and asked
why make an exception now. The applicant knew that it was in a R7.5 zone when he purchased.
Transfer paper marked Exhibit 1 and entered into the record.
Mr. Decker of 1 Robins Nest stated that his back yard will sink as soil is eroding presently.
Ms. Carozza stated that the applicant ruined the land and they must replant the trees.
Frank Grippi not being built to property line, neighbors far away, and property lower.
Mr. Sacks asked the applicant to address the issue that the area is zoned R7.5 and Mr. Grippi stated that
they met with the previous building inspector and was informed it was a buildable lot.
Mr.Tomczyk stated that he purchased the lot to build a new house, Mr. Flook would not sell lot unless
the house was bought also. He purchased both rebuilt the existing house and sold it.
Mr. Wexler stated that there are a number of lots in the area that are nonconforming and the Board's
task is to weigh whether the request is out of character with the neighborhood.
Ms. Carozza stated that if the property were flat she would have no objection.
Mr. Wexler asked Mr.Tomczyk to lay out on the lot where the house will be placed,for a sense of the
proposal, and prepare a topographic site plan.
The owner of 59 Harrison stated that they will need a retaining wall once they dig into the hill.
Mr. Wexler stated that the slope reduces the mass of the proposed house.
Mr. Sacks asked that the engineer to show the erosion issues, air and light.
Ms. Carozza stated that Mr. Maker looked at the statue and determined that it was not a buildable lot
and that is why they are before the Zoning Board.
The matter was adjourned to January 4, 2017.
MINUTES
Motion:To approve the minutes of October 28, 2016
Action:Approved
17
Moved by Irene O'Neill, Seconded by Arthur Wexler, Chairman
Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary:Yes=4).
Yes:Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh.
ADJOURNED
The meeting was adjourned at 11:35P.M.
Minutes prepared by
Francine M. Brill
Zoning Board of Appeals Secretary
18