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Commission approves continuance of nonconforming use to allow addition at 145 Rainbow Avenue
Summary
The commission approved a conditional-use continuance July 28 allowing the reconstruction and enlargement of an existing pre‑ordinance house at 145 Rainbow Avenue to replace a failing foundation and add living space; the decision was unanimous and staff noted neighbor support.
The Planning and Zoning Commission on July 28 approved a conditional‑use continuance to permit a two‑story addition at 145 Rainbow Avenue that replaces an existing failing one‑story addition. The vote was 5-0.
Applicant John Goodman of Birch Blue Construction presented plans showing the new addition will extend the existing footprint by about three percentage points and replace a failing foundation that has caused structural separation. Goodman said the family has lived in the house for more than 10 years and that the proposed dormers will provide egress for an upstairs bedroom. Goodman said the project also includes siding and roof replacement to give the house a unified exterior.
Staff told commissioners the house is a nonconforming structure because it was built before the current zoning ordinance, and any expansion requires a conditional use review. The staff report recommended approval, noting the addition meets side‑yard setbacks, should not change neighborhood character and is supported by three letters from adjoining property owners. The commission closed the public hearing and later approved the conditional use; staff will prepare the conditional‑use paperwork and the applicant will return for a zoning certificate.
Commissioners commended the applicant for addressing structural and safety issues and noted the work is likely to improve neighborhood property values. The applicant will remove the failing foundation and build the new addition consistent with the plans submitted to staff and the commission.
