The Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment on Sept. 17, 2025, voted 7-0 to approve variances for a second-floor addition at 35 Belmont Ave that will create a front-yard setback of 20.9 feet where 25 feet is required, a combined side-yard total of roughly 13.13 feet where 16 feet is required, and a lot coverage of 30% where 27% is allowed.

Applicant Shai Rosenstock told the board the changes are small and that the main house will not be moved forward; the proposed front porch would extend about 14 additional inches beyond the existing porch. The board confirmed the applicant was not seeking a two-and-a-half‑story variance.

Nut graf: Because the revised design remains within the town’s height limits and the additional encroachment is minor, the board treated the application as a standard bulk-variance request and approved it without conditions beyond standard plan compliance.

Board action: Commissioner Fucas moved to approve the application; Commissioner O'Connor seconded. A roll-call vote recorded seven yes votes and no negative votes, and the motion passed 7-0.

Discussion vs. decision: The hearing included brief presentation of the dimensional requests and confirmation from the zoning officer that no height variance was sought. No members of the public spoke against the proposal. The board’s approval applies to the plans presented at the hearing and will guide subsequent permit review.

Clarifying details: The applicant described the proposed front setback as 20.9 feet (25 feet required), combined side yards as about 13.13 feet (16 feet required), and lot coverage as 30% (27% allowed). The transcript records the applicant saying the project is a “modest second floor addition.”

Ending: With the unanimous vote, the applicant may seek building permits consistent with the approved plans; any substantive design changes would require a new application.