Plan Commission approves setback and siding variances for shipping‑container home on Hawk Street

The City of Oshkosh Plan Commission voted 6-0 to approve a variance to allow metal siding and an increased front yard setback for a proposed shipping‑container house on a unique corner lot on the east side of the 1100 block of Hawk Street.

Staff described the site as a just-over-32,000-square-foot corner lot with two frontages and frontage on Sawyer Creek. The applicants, Key and Chad Simon, propose a shipping‑container home with metal cladding and a 75‑foot front setback; staff supported the increased setback because the lot is not a traditional infill site and has unusual frontage and topography.

Glenn Hoagie, an adjacent neighbor at 1116 Hawk Street, told the commission his primary concern is drainage: "That lot is at least 3 feet higher than my lot. And with the added building structure on there, all the water to the south of me is gonna end up in my basement." Hoagie asked whether a drain tile or similar solution could divert runoff to the creek. Planning staff responded that the city's housing and grading codes address drainage and that new homes are reviewed to ensure proper grading; commissioners reiterated that any construction must meet stormwater and grading standards.

Commission members also discussed the project's sustainability and its potential to provide a creative infill housing solution. Council Member Nichols called it "really cool" and noted the city is looking for creative infill solutions to address housing needs. After discussion, the commission moved to adopt staff findings and recommendations and voted by roll call: Council Member Nichols (aye); Mister Galton (aye); Miss Dady (aye); Mister Lowenstein (aye); Vice Chair Keefer (aye); Chairman Perry (aye). Motion carried 6-0.

The approval allows the applicant to proceed subject to the conditions in the staff report, including grading and stormwater requirements enforced through permitting.