Summary
The board granted Michael Pompili a variance to combine two lots and to allow an existing rear accessory structure to exceed the current accessory height limit; staff and the board noted topographic constraints and historic lot configuration.
The City of Morgantown Board of Zoning Appeals granted a variance allowing Michael Pompili to combine adjacent parcels at 367–369 Maple Avenue and to treat an existing rear structure as an accessory building that exceeds the current maximum accessory height by two feet. Planning staff recommended approval with the standard condition that any other site modifications comply with the city code.
Staff described the rear building as a preexisting garage/workshop that would become an accessory structure to the primary dwelling on Maple Avenue after lot consolidation. The structure has never been a dwelling unit and has been used historically as a garage and workshop. Pompili said the buildings and lot configuration date to the original South Park subdivision and that the structure’s height and foundation reflect topographic and construction conditions from the early 20th century.
Board members discussed whether the condition creating the need for variance was the property itself (topography and lot layout) or an owner action. They concluded the accessory structure is preexisting, the lot pattern is historic, and the structure does not create new adverse impacts on neighbors; members noted the accessory roofline is not taller than nearby principal buildings. The board unanimously accepted the findings and voted to grant the variance to exceed the accessory height limit by two feet, subject to the standard condition that changes must comply with the City’s Planning and Zoning Code or secure further relief. The applicant was reminded of the 30‑day appeal period to the Circuit Court of Monongalia County.
