HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017_03_22 Zoning Board of Appeals Minutes THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE ZONING BOARD
OF THE TOWN OF MAMARONECK, MARCH 22,2017
HELD IN THE COURT ROOM 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,Alternate
Also Present: Lisa Hochman, Counsel to the Zoning Board
Absent/Excused:Jeffery King, Evans Simpson,Tom Murphy,Town Board Liaison,John H. Landi, Building
Inspector.
Mr. Wexler stated that there are only 4 members present tonight and an applicant would have to have 3
positive votes for approval. If any applicant wishes to adjourn they may so request.
CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 7:55P.M.
MINUTES
The minutes were postponed.
APPLICATION NO. 1 CASE NO.3051 57 Harrison Drive Corp. 55 Harrison Drive
Mr. Wexler stated that at the last meeting a straw pole was taken to determine whether board
members were favorable to the application and if so,to state their reasons. On the basis, a draft
resolution with proposed findings was prepared and circulated among the board members.
Carol Carozza read a statement into the record, objecting to the application. Philip Heinegg also spoke
in opposition to the application.
The Board discussed the 40-inch caliper oak tree at 3 Robins Nest and proposed a specific condition.The
applicant was in agreement that best efforts would be used to protect the tree and replace if the health
of the tree were jeopardized during construction.
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Jonathan Sacks, seconded by Irene O'Neill
Motion:To approve the requested variance
Action: Approved
Moved by Stephen Marsh, seconded by Jonathan Sacks
1
After review, on motion of Stephen Marsh seconded by Jonathan Sacks, the following resolution was
proposed and unanimously ADOPTED by a vote of 4 to 0.
Ayes: Wexler, O'Neill, Sacks, Marsh
Nays: None
Absent: Simpson, King
WHEREAS,57 Harrison Drive Corp. (the "Applicant") requested a variance to construct a single
family house on the premises located at 55 Harrison Drive and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the
Town of Mamaroneck as Section 5 Block 1, Lot 301; 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 240-38.A(2), 240-38.B(2)(a) and 240-69, as stated in the Notice of
Disapproval dated October 24, 2016; and
WHEREAS, subsequent to the above referenced Notice of Disapproval,the Building Inspector
determined that relief from the side yard setback requirement of 240-38.B(2)(a) is unnecessary; and
WHEREAS,the Applicant submitted to this Board an application for relief from the street
frontage and lot width requirements of the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS,the Application meets all other bulk and dimensional zoning requirements related to
front, rear and side yard setbacks, height, FAR and lot coverage; and
WHEREAS,the Board examined the following plans submitted by the Applicant:
• Site Plan and Architectural Plans prepared by Richau Mustacato Grippi Associates dated October
16, 2015
• Landscaping Plans prepared by Antony Acocella Landscaping Architect, P.C. dated October 16,
2015 and last revised February 1, 2017 (the "Landscape Plan")
• Erosion Plan prepared by Jonathan M. Avellino, P.E. dated October 7, 2015 and last revised
December 7, 2015 (the "Erosion Plan")
• Survey prepared by The Munson Company dated December 5, 2014 and last revised on
December 28, 2016
• Relevant portion of the tax map showing subject property and adjacent properties along with lot
dimensions (the "Tax Map")
WHEREAS,the Board members inspected the site, reviewed and considered documents
submitted in connection with this Application; and
WHEREAS, a duly noticed public hearing was opened on November 30, 2016 and continued on
January 4,January 25, February 25 and March 22, 2017; and
2
WHEREAS,the Board has heard all persons interested in this Application and considered all oral
and written testimony; 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 owner of an adjacent parcel at 3 Robins Nest Lane (the "3 Robins Nest Owner")
expressed concern about the stability of a 40-inch diameter oak tree in her yard (the "3 Robins Nest Oak
Tree")which could be damaged during construction; and
WHEREAS, at the board meeting on March 22, 2017, the Applicant agreed to engage an arborist
during construction to determine whether construction activities jeopardize the stability of the 3 Robins
Nest Oak Tree; and
WHEREAS,the Applicant further agreed that if such arborist determined that the stability of the
3 Robins Nest Oak Tree were in jeopardy, the Applicant would,with the consent of the 3 Robins Nest
Owner, cause and pay for the removal of the 3 Robins Nest Tree; and
WHEREAS, in the event the 3 Robins Nest Oak Tree were to be removed upon the
recommendation of said arborist,the Applicant further agreed, upon consent of and in consultation
with the 3 Robins Nest Owner,to cause and pay for the installation of a 5-inch caliper tree on the
property located at 3 Robins Nest Lane; and
WHEREAS,the Zoning Board of the Town of Mamaroneck makes the following findings as
required by New York State Town Law§267-b; and
1. The Board finds 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 houses on
similarly narrow lots are prevalent in the neighborhood and there is more than 10 feet
of distance between the proposed house and neighboring houses. In particular,the
Board refers to the Tax Map referenced hereinabove which shows that there are at least
four(4) developed parcels in the immediate vicinity of the subject property that are of
equal width or narrower than the subject property: (i) 57 Harrison Drive has lot width
and street frontage of 55 feet; (ii) 59 Harrison Drive has lot width and street frontage of
57 feet; (iii) 52 Harrison Drive has lot width of 50 feet and street frontage of 59 feet and
(iv) 39 Coolidge Street has a lot width of 50 feet and street frontage of 59 feet.
3
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some method 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 lot is undersized
with respect to lot width and street frontage;therefore, any development would
require a variance.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The subject property is 55 feet wide with 63 feet of street frontage whereas the Zoning
Code requires 75 feet for lot width and street frontage.The Board finds that this is not
substantial due to the prevalence of nearby houses built on similarly narrow(or
narrower) lots. Furthermore,the Board is persuaded by the fact that house itself
complies with all zoning requirements such as height, FAR, lot coverage and,front, rear
and side yard setbacks.
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 hereinabove referenced Erosion Plan shows that
current drainage conditions will be improved by controlling, slowing down and directing
storm water runoff to a nearby catch basin. In particular,the Board notes that the
Erosion Plan shows three 30-foot lengths of 3-foot diameter pipes to slow the rate of
flow from the subject property in a controlled measure of release. Therefore,the Board
finds that the development and drainage plans associated with this Application will
benefit neighboring properties downhill from the subject property. Furthermore,the
Board finds that the proposed Landscape Plan mitigates drainage as well as well as
visual impacts to surrounding properties.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created.
Although the Applicant was originally informed by Town officials that development on
this lot was permissible without application for area variances,the Board finds that the
difficulty is self-created; however,this factor is not determinative under the
circumstances presented.
2. For the reasons stated above, the granting of this 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.
4
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 Director of Building 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.
SPECIFIC CONDITION:
6. The Applicant shall engage an arborist during construction to assess the stability of the 3
Robins Nest Oak Tree and, if such arborist determines that the stability of such tree is in
jeopardy,the Applicant shall,with consent of the 3 Robins Nest Owner, cause and pay for
the removal of the 3 Robins Nest Oak Tree and installation of a 5-inch caliper tree.
This decision was filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2) of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 3 CASE NO. 3 Christopher Fathers 38 Myrtle Blvd.
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, seconded by Irene O'Neill
James Fleming,the applicant's architect, addressed the Board asking to legalize the 2 air conditioning
condenser units and the stand by generator as there is no other place on the property. He pointed out
that the property is burdened with three front yards. He further stated the units are small,very quiet
and attached to the house. Ms. O'Neil stated that the notice of disapproval was not correct and it was
suggested that the applicant request an adjournment and return next month. Brenda Fathers, the
applicant, requested an adjournment.
APPLICATION NO. 4 CASE NO.3059 Milja and Ronald TumSuden 11 Briarcliff Road
5
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, seconded by Irene O'Neill
Gregory Lewis,the applicant's architect, addressed the Board, stating they are proposing a front porch
addition to improve curb appeal. He explained the plan for the new front foyer, porch and steps. Ms.
TumSuden,gave the Board a rendering of the house, which was marked Exhibit 1 and entered into the
record.
The Board discussed the plan and elevations as well as the relationship of the proposed addition to
nearby houses.
There were no public questions or comments.
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, seconded by Jonathan Sacks
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Jonathan Sacks, seconded by Irene O'Neill
Vote: Arthur Wexler, Chairman, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
After review, on motion of Jonathan Sacks, seconded by Irene O'Neill the following resolution was
proposed and ADOPTED unanimously(4-0).
Ayes: Arthur Wexler, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Nays: None
Absent/Excused: Jeffery King, Evans Simpson
WHEREAS, Milja and Ronald TumSuden, (the "Applicant")requested a variance to construct an
addition including a porch which would encroach into the required front and side yard setbacks at the
premises located at 11 Briarcliff Road and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of
Mamaroneck as Block 220, Lot 206; 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, 240-37 B(2)(a)and 240-69; and
6
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 by New York State Town Law§267-b; and
1. The Board finds 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 design is
consistent with houses in the neighborhood and further because the curve of the street
obscures the view of the porch from neighboring houses.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some method 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 a usable front porch
requires variances from the setback requirements.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The Board finds that that the variance is substantial but consistent with neighboring
houses and therefore finds this finding is not determinative.
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 they will be no more runoff, light or noise.
E. Whether the difficulty is self-created.
7
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 this 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 Director of Building 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 was filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2) of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 5 CASE NO.3060 Chrystal and Robert Chambers 17 Overlook Terrance
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, seconded by Irene O'Neill
Paige Lewis,the applicant's architect, addressed the Board requesting a rear yard variance for a 408
square foot deck. The existing nonconforming house is 16 feet from the rear property line.
The Board discussed the request and the distance to the neighbor's houses.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
8
Briar Lobell, of 87 Edgewood Avenue stated that about 15 years ago 15 Overlook had many increases
and he didn't understand the possible impact. He further stated he doesn't understand why the Town
just doesn't change zoning requirements regarding setbacks.
Mr. Wexler explained the Board's role and that what Mr. Lobel is saying is not under the purview of the
Zoning Board.
Ms. Hochman stated that the Board is here for when someone seeks relief from the code.
Mr. Lobel stated the Board should not grant a variance, Mr. Sacks responded so noted.
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, seconded by Irene O'Neill
Motion:To approve the requested variance
Action: Approved
Moved by Irene O'Neill, seconded by Jonathan Sacks
Vote: Arthur Wexler, 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, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Nays: None
Absent/Excused: Jeffery King, Evans Simpson
WHEREAS,Chrystal and Robert Chambers, (the "Applicant")requested a variance to construct a
rear deck which encroaches the rear yard setback requirements on the premises located at 17 Overlook
Terrace and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of Mamaroneck as Block 127, Lot 363; 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 240-38(3), 230-38F 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
9
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 by New York State Town Law§267-b; and
1. The Board finds 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 deck is
located in the back of the house, and the neighboring house on the left is significantly
lower and also has a deck, the house on the right is a great distance away and not visible
from the street. Also a fence along the rear of the property will shield visibility.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some method 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 they cannot achieve a
deck anywhere else on the property due to the placement of the house as it is
significantly in the rear in a nonconforming rear yard.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The Board finds that that the variance is substantial but the house already encroaches in
the rear;therefore this is not determinative.
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 deck will be permeable and there will be no
more runoff, light, or noise.
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.
10
2. For the reasons stated above, the granting of this 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 Director of Building 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 was filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2) of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 6 CASE NO.3061 Kim and Byran Mitchell 22 Villa Road
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Arthur Wexler, seconded by Irene O'Neill
Gregory Lewis,the applicant's architect addressed the Board, stating that the applicants have lived in
the house for 12 years and want a family room and extra bedroom. He gave a sheet with zoning
calculations marked Exhibit 1 and another sheet showing square footage marked Exhibit 2 and both
were entered into the record. Mr. Lewis stated the addition to the back of the house also needs lot
coverage and side yard variances. Mr. Wexler stated that the lot coverage is extremely large and asked
that it be lowered. The Board discussed the proposed plan,the retaining walls and the patio. Mr. Lewis
stated that the applicants in order to save the expense of hiring an engineer wanted to see if they would
receive a variance first. Mr. Wexler stated he is reluctant to approve with the large impervious area,
11
although he has no problem with the house. He further suggested the applicant explore what the patio
will be covering, and hire an engineer to lessen the coverage.
The matter was adjourned.
APPLICATION NO. 7 CASE NO. 3062 Mr.and Mrs. Renee Burns 10 Cabot Road
Mr. Wexler stated that he had trouble reading the drawing and questioned whether the measurement
on the plan is correct.
Motion:To open the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Jonathan Sacks, seconded by Irene O'Neill
Larry Bennet,the applicant's architect addressed the Board and explained the plan stating that they are
constrained with a Westchester County easement on one side of the property and therefore can only
build out on the other side, which and requires a variance. He further stated that the actual disturbance
of soil is 30 square feet.
The plan measurement referenced by Mr. Wexler was discussed and Mr. Bennett stated that he believes
that the 11 foot measurement is correct.
Mr. Wexler stated that an as built survey would be required and if the measurement is wrong the
applicant would be required to return to the Board with no guarantee of receiving a variance. He
further suggested that the applicant get the surveyor to stake the 11 feet and only build within those
perimeters.
Mr. Bennett stated that they would like to continue for a vote.
There were no public questions or comments.
Motion:To close the public hearing
Action: Approved
Moved by Stephen Marsh, seconded by Jonathan Sacks
Motion:To approve the requested variance
Action: Approved
Moved by Stephen Marsh, seconded by Arthur Wexler
Vote: Arthur Wexler, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
12
After review, on motion of Stephen Marsh, seconded by Arthur Wexler the following resolution was
proposed and ADOPTED unanimously(5-0).
Ayes: Arthur Wexler, Irene O'Neill,Jonathan Sacks, Stephen Marsh
Nays: None
Absent/Excused: Evans Simpson,Jeffery King,
WHEREAS, Mr. and Mrs. Renee Burns, (the "Applicant")requested a variance to construct a rear
deck on the premises located at 10 Cabot Road and known on the Tax Assessment Map of the Town of
Mamaroneck as Block 125, Lot 477; 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)(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 by New York State Town Law§267-b; and
1. The Board finds 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 design
improves the appearance of the front of the house and the deck will not impact a rear
neighbor because the property backs up to the Town commuter parking lot.
B. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some method feasible
to the applicants other than an area variance.
13
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 due to the location of
the county easement,there is no other place for the deck.
C. Whether the area variance is substantial.
The Board finds that that the variance is not substantial because the applicant is asking
for a variance of 16.8 feet combined yard setbacks where 18 feet is required.
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 this will not create any added runoff since it is only a
minimal increase in square footage.
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 this 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 Director of Building 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.
14
This decision was filed with the Town Clerk as provided in Section 267-a(2) of the Town Law.
APPLICATION NO. 2 CASE NO. 3056 Safe Guard Storage Properties 615 Fifth Avenue
Chris Fisher,the applicant's attorney, Stan Bonilla, Safeguard's representative and Chris Michalek,
architect, addressed the Board
Mr. Michalek, stated that they looked at the project in more detail to address the concerns previously
expressed by Board members regarding scale and massing. The height of the building was lowered as
well as the loading area door. All floors were reduced to the minimum allowable height for the units at
8 feet with 2-foot clearance for the sprinkler heads. By removing the interior loading dock,the plan now
shows a portico over the Town Easement. Nothing can be built on the Easement so they cannot lower
the building any further and make it economically feasible. The portico will span the easement allowing
for access to maintain the culvert.
The building is now proposed at 4 stories,43 feet in height.
The Board discussed the changes to the plan as well as parking,trip flow counts,the shadow study and
hours of operation.
Mr. Bonilla stated the hours are 9 AM-6:00 or 7:00 PM although some customers will have 24 hour
access with a key pad code. There will be no outdoor lighting after hours of operation, only interior
motion detector lights.
Mr. Bonilla further stated that outdoor lighting will be downward photo metrics and will not impact the
The applicant asserted that the area is heavily industrial.
Mr. Bonilla stated that he believes that Larchmont and the Town is the target area. And that this is an
underserved area for storage needs.
The Board discussed the role of the Planning Board in granting site plan approval.
Mr. Marsh stated that although the improvements are noticeable as compared to the proposal at the
February meeting, he is concerned with the massing close to the street and asked if it could be stepped
back slightly. Mr. Bonilla stated that they want to be in the area however this building is 60, 000 sq. feet
where 100,000 is the average size.
The matter was adjourned
MINUTES
Motion:To approve the minutes of February 15, 2017 with technical corrections
Action: Approved
Moved by Jonathan Sacks, seconded by Stephen Marsh
15
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 11:06P.M.
Minutes Prepared by Francine M. Brill, Zoning Board of Appeals Secretary
16