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BUILDING & ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CITY OF NORTH OLMSTED MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 3, 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, Ralph Mackey Staff: Building Coordinator Katie Seeley, Law Director Michael Gareau, Administrative Assistant Lyn Wilson MINUTES The minutes of September 22, and October 6, 2025; were submitted for approval; all in favor, none opposed. RESIDENTIAL APPEALS AND REQUESTS 340-2025; Mercedes Lux; 5854 Stearns Rd. The board opened Case 340-2025 regarding a proposed "catio" accessory use at 5854 Stearns Road and swore in speakers. City staff outlined three requested variances: allowing a non - permitted accessory use, allowing part of the structure in the side yard, and reducing the required five-foot side setback to two feet. Guidance was provided that the board needed to decide the use variance first before considering the area variances, and the case was to be reviewed as if the structure had not already been built. The applicant explained the work had started without permits due to misunderstanding and said changes could be made to increase separation from the neighbor's fence. A neighboring resident supported the concept but raised concerns about the structure's proximity to the property line, inability to access and maintain the fence area, drainage and snow/ice shedding, and lack of engineering/roofing considerations. Staff noted the permit had been applied for after inspection and denied, and discussed that if the use variance were granted, the applicant could potentially revise plans to reduce or eliminate the need for additional variances. Questions were raised about whether the setup should be treated as an accessory structure or an animal shelter, and staff indicated that option had been reviewed and was not found applicable. Mr. Mackey made a.motion to approve the use variance request; seconded by Ms. Galateanu.