West Babylon Board reviews Matthew Siegfried's pool deck rebuilding proposal

In a recent Zoning Board of Appeals meeting held on July 10, 2025, in West Babylon, significant discussions centered around residential property modifications that could impact local neighborhoods. The meeting highlighted two main applications, both involving pool installations and deck renovations, which raised concerns about compliance with zoning regulations and neighborhood aesthetics.

The first application involved a homeowner seeking approval for a 14 by 24-foot in-ground pool. The applicant, who plans to remove an existing shed, expressed intentions to use turf around the pool to manage rainwater runoff effectively. Board members noted that opting for turf instead of pavers would help avoid additional zoning relief requirements, as the property is already over the allowed lot coverage. The board unanimously approved the application, allowing the homeowner to proceed with the pool installation.

The second application, presented by architect Bernard Rogers on behalf of client Matthew Siegfried, sought to rebuild a pool deck while requesting an increase in total building area from 20% to 30.21%. This request followed a previous denial of setback variances for the original deck. The new proposal aims to comply fully with setback regulations, as the problematic areas have been removed. However, the application sparked debate among board members and local residents regarding compliance with prior directives, particularly concerning the management of runoff and the planting of privacy trees.

Residents voiced concerns about the potential impact of Siegfried's renovations on their properties, particularly regarding flooding and privacy issues. One neighbor highlighted that Siegfried had not submitted a required survey to ensure adequate open ground area for runoff absorption, which was a condition from a previous hearing. The board acknowledged these concerns but clarified that the current application focused solely on the requested building area increase.

As the meeting concluded, the board emphasized the importance of adhering to zoning regulations while balancing the needs of homeowners with the concerns of the community. The decisions made during this meeting will shape the neighborhood's landscape and address ongoing issues related to property modifications and their effects on local residents. The board's next steps will involve careful consideration of compliance with previous directives as they continue to navigate the complexities of zoning appeals in West Babylon.