9/11/2023 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Board members discussed the fence variance request, with the majority expressing agreement and leaning towards approval. They considered the applicant's perspective regarding other properties in the neighborhood with similar fences, deeming it consistent with the neighborhood's character. Mr. Papotto was in favor, emphasizing the distance from the sidewalk and the fence's presence since the `90s. Motion Passed: 5-0 23-25091; Benedict/Green; 5661 Wellesley Avenue Representatives: Stephanie Whitman of Akron, Elaine Repede 5675 Wellesley: Terry Yuhas 5647 Wellesley Ms. Seeley introduced this proposal of a new home on a vacant parcel. Property is zoned C -One Family Residence. The following variance was requested: a 16 foot five -inch variance to minimum lot width of a dwelling: code requires 60 feet: applicant shows 43 feet five -inches. Ms. Whitman stated she was the architect, and explained that her client had family in North Olmsted, and her son recently had children. The client wanted to build her second home here and purchased a lot, expecting the variance to pass. Despite being the only variance. all other code regulations complied. The lot, currently unused. appeared overgrown. The proposed residence was seen as a potential facelift, adding value to the neighborhood. Renderings were available for viewing. Ms. Seeley reported that the lot was unique and exceptionally small. even among the 50 -feet lots in the neighborhood. Acknowledging the overgrown condition, efforts were made to prompt the new owner. Barbara, to address it. Despite Barbara being out of state. and understanding was reached, and she hired someone to maintain the property. Given the lots size, any proposed development would necessitate variances. Director Upton highlighted the efforts of various organizations addressing housing affordability. naming the Cuyahoga County Land Bank, the First Suburbs Consortium. and the Conaress for the New urbanism. He suggested the proposed structure might resemble a granny flat. or ADU. typically ranging from 600-1200 square feet. He expressed support for such housing solutions. mentioning the First Suburbs Consortium's legislative efforts to allow ADUs and eliminate barriers like lot size requirements. Director Upton affirmed his department's favor toward the request, anticipating a more in-depth study on granny flats in the upcoming citywide master plan. Mr. O'Malley emphasized the clear need for a variance due to the inherent practical difficulty. emphasizing the unchangeable width of the lot. He suggested the lots creation was likely approved by the city before subsequent standards were increased. Highlighting the property right to use the lot as zoned, he urged the board to grant the variance, citing potential constitutional concerns with the lot requirement. Ms. Repede expressed positively for the variance stating she was looking forward to having the house there. Mr. Yuhas was opposed, sharing he felt the code was there for a reason and that the variance should not be granted.