Zoning board grants modified variance for addition and front-yard parking at 608 Westchester Street

The City of Long Beach Zoning Board of Appeals voted to grant a modification to a previously approved variance for 608 Westchester Street, allowing a revised side-yard set-back and an off-street parking space in the front yard under the terms presented. Why it matters: The modification allows the homeowners to adjust an approved addition and maintain a front-yard parking space that meets size standards, affecting local setback enforcement and appearance of the street. Rebecca Weavers, an agent for owners James and Crystal Warren, told the board the project had been revised to move an addition forward to align with the existing front dwelling line (about 20.1 feet back) and to change the side yard from 1.3 feet to 2.0 feet to avoid fire-rating requirements. The application sought continued approval for off-street parking at the front, using an existing curb cut; Weavers said the proposed parking space dimensions were 20 by 10 feet (actual drawing lists 20 by 10.8 feet in the plan). Commissioner Michelle Alvarado introduced a motion to grant the modification; Chairman Morelli seconded. Commissioners Markowitz, Lease, Brooks, Alvarado and Chairman Morelli voted in favor and the board granted the modification for Case 3436 as revised. Board members asked about the curb cut, preexisting conditions and whether changes reduced the scope of the previously approved variance. The applicant's representative said the curb cut was preexisting and no new curb cuts were made. Board members also asked whether the white picket fence in front would be maintained; the agent responded it would be preserved where feasible. What happens next: The modification is granted; the applicants may proceed with permitting consistent with the modified approval and any required building-department inspections. Clarifying details: The case referenced Section 9-105.2(c) (front yard) and 9-105.2(d) (side yard) and Section 9-113.2(g) (off-street parking). The board recorded that the modification reduced the need for fire-rating at the side because the side-yard clearance increased to two feet. The curb cut and parking footprint were represented as existing and meeting size requirements.