Coventry Zoning Board Deliberates Residential Variance for Family-Designed Home

The Zoning Board of Review meeting held on August 6, 2025, in Coventry, Rhode Island, focused on a proposal for a residential home in an industrial zone, sparking significant discussion among board members and community members.

The primary topic of the meeting was a request to build a single-family home intended for an elderly resident, which has been a point of contention due to zoning regulations. The applicant, Julie Bailey, expressed her desire to construct the home for her mother, who has health issues and requires a safer living environment. Bailey emphasized the importance of the property, which has been in her family for over a century, and highlighted the existing infrastructure that could support the new home.

Board members discussed the proposal's evolution, noting that previous plans required variances for setbacks, which have now been addressed. However, the main concern remains the residential use of the property within an industrial zone. Some board members expressed a willingness to make a decision based on the current proposal, while others suggested postponing the vote to allow for further review and community input.

Community members voiced their opinions, with some supporting Bailey's request and others questioning the necessity of variances. Concerns were raised about the potential for multiple homes on the property and the implications for zoning compliance. One resident suggested that the proposal could have been designed to fit within existing zoning parameters from the outset, which might have avoided the current complications.

The meeting concluded without a definitive decision, as board members considered the need for additional review. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential adjustments to the proposal to align with zoning regulations while addressing community concerns. The outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for future residential developments in industrial zones within Coventry.