Brookhaven zoning board grants variances for multiple properties, amends Fire Island Pines application; hears affordable‑housing proposals

The Town of Brookhaven Board of Zoning Appeals on Feb. 12, 2025, approved variances for a range of residential properties, amended a high‑profile Fire Island Pines application after the National Park Service raised federal park‑law concerns, and heard presentations from the Long Island Housing Partnership on small, permanently affordable single‑family homes.

The board moved quickly through a full calendar, granting multiple lot‑and‑setback variances for individual homeowners and small developers while holding several matters for decision or additional materials. Several approvals were routine, where applicants documented long‑standing existing conditions; others required an amended plan before the board approved them.

Why it matters: The board’s decisions enable property owners to legalize older, nonconforming structures and allow new small‑lot housing and modest additions in neighborhoods across the town. The Fire Island matter drew separate attention because federal National Park Service rules limit nonconforming development inside the Fire Island National Seashore and can, in extreme cases, lead to condemnation if nonconformities are not reduced.

Key approvals and outcomes - Laura Ecki (265 Lakeside Trail, Ridge): The board granted a Type‑2 variance to legalize several existing pool‑related structures and an unpermitted shed and deck that the applicant said had been in place for decades. Motion to grant made by Board Member Casey and seconded by the chair; outcome: granted (motion carried). The board directed that a written grant letter would issue within 7–10 business days.

- Andrew Malguinara / 713 Main Street, Port Jefferson (two matters): The board…