Warren — The Warren City Zoning Board of Appeals on Wednesday approved a variance allowing John and Rebecca Patterson to replace an aging rear yard deck at 14918 Jacobs Street.

The board granted permission to construct a 16‑foot by 26.5‑foot deck to within 21.8 feet of the rear property line, finding the replacement will not be a detriment to the area. The motion to approve the request was made by Secretary Jersey and supported by Mister Green; the board’s roll call was unanimous in favor.

John W. Patterson and Rebecca Patterson told the board the existing deck was original to the house, was rotted in places and that the replacement deck would be slightly smaller. They said the existing structure had been built without a permit and that the new deck would be constructed in the same location but reduced in size.

Board members asked whether the new deck would attach to the house and whether a building permit was required. The petitioners said the deck would not be attached to the house and acknowledged a permit is required in the City of Warren. Planning staff had raised no objections in the department’s impact statement.

The board recorded yes votes in roll call from all members present; the petitioners were told they could proceed with permitting and construction consistent with the approved dimensions.