10/06/2025 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

BUILDING &ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CITY OF NORTH OLMSTED MEETING MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 6,2025 ROLL CALL Mr. Papotto called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. Present: Bob Papotto,Roxana Galateanu,Neil Ammons Staff: Building Coordinator Katie Seeley, Law Director Michael Gareau,Administrative Assistant Lyn Wilson RESIDENTIAL APPEALS AND REQUESTS 268-2025; Lori Moran; 5079 Porter Rd. The board heard an appeal regarding a gravel driveway extension at 5079 Porter Road. The property owner contested the building commissioner's order to remove the added gravel and restore the area to grass, arguing that part of the gravel had existed previously. A neighbor testified that gravel had been present for many years. The Building Department stated that while existing gravel driveways are permitted if maintained, extensions are not allowed and must be removed. Aerial photos from 1993,2002, and 2024 were reviewed, showing that the area in question appeared to have been expanded. The department maintained that only the original driveway is allowed to remain. The Building Department reiterated that gravel added after 1993 was not permitted and must be removed before adding dirt and seed, as simply covering it would not allow grass to grow properly. The property owner stated she could not afford full removal due to financial hardship and the recent costs of relocating her dog grooming business to a commercial space. The director explained that the issue centered on maintaining nonconforming uses—if abandoned,the grandfathered status is lost and the area must comply with current paving requirements. The board clarified that the case was not about preference but about code enforcement. When asked about remediation,the applicant estimated she could cover the nonconforming gravel and begin restoring the area within three months. The applicant testified that relocating her business had created an extreme financial hardship, with an additional$2,000 monthly expense, and she emphasized her efforts to serve the community through affordable pet grooming. She stated she had invested all her savings into both her home and new storefront and was struggling to manage further costs. She confirmed she would continue cooperating with the city to resolve the issue. Questions followed regarding whether covering gravel with soil could successfully grow grass. Staff explained that while possible, it likely would not produce good results. The Building Department clarified their concern that if the gravel remained, future homeowners might assume 1