Board of Adjustments OKs setback variance for ENA Properties building on Jefferson Street

The Waterloo Board of Adjustments on Aug. 26 approved a variance allowing ENA Properties LLC to construct a 9,975-square-foot building with a 10.95-foot front-yard setback at a lot adjacent to 1825 Jefferson Street. Staff told the board the request reduces the required 25-foot front-yard setback by 14.05 feet and would not appear to negatively affect traffic or the commercial character of the area. The property is in the M-1 Light Industrial District and has held that zoning designation since 1969. City staff said the proposed setback mirrors other small setbacks on the block and noted the applicant must meet modern stormwater detention requirements during the building-permit process. Christian (staff) summarized the recommendation: the variance should be approved because the applicant would otherwise have to build a smaller building, other nearby buildings have smaller setbacks, and there has been no opposition. Applicant Edis Peduzovich told the board he owns adjacent property and plans to consolidate operations. “We would be moving from University … down to Jefferson having the whole location … for storing cars, sports and exotic cars,” Peduzovich said, describing the new building as a consolidation of existing storage and detailing operations. No members of the public spoke in opposition. After discussion the board voted to approve the variance; the chair announced, “Motion carries.” The board’s approval is limited to the setback relief described; the applicant must obtain all required building permits and comply with applicable stormwater and other city codes as part of the permit review and construction process.