Commission backs 10‑foot rear‑setback variance for Nesting Eagles house addition

The Machesney Park Planning and Zoning Commission voted May 27 to forward Ordinance 19‑25, a variance reducing the rear setback requirement from 30 feet to 20 feet for a proposed addition at 7860 Nesting Eagles Road in Winchester Park.

Carrie, a planning staff member, described the request as an addition that would “end up being 20 feet from the rear property boundary rather than the required 30 foot setback.” She said the neighborhood is unusual because many adjacent properties “infringe onto that vacant lot behind them, which kinda gives the illusion that the lots are deeper than they actually are,” and recommended approval on that basis.

Applicant Lyle Rich, who was sworn in and gave his address, told the commission the planned room would be “22 by 22” and that he wished to extend “10 feet into” the 30‑foot rear yard so the finished room would leave “20 feet left.” Neighbor David Wayne Lefebvre of 7877 Nesting Eagles spoke in support, saying he “really support[s] Lyle and his efforts.”

Commission discussion addressed maps and ownership of the vacant land behind the lots. A commissioner noted Winnebago County GIS records list Paul Slabaugh as the owner; staff said the parcel is not included in tentative subdivision plats, is narrow and likely not accessible for development, and that any encroachments onto private land are a private matter unless the landowner requests removal.

By unanimous roll call the commission approved forwarding the variance with a positive recommendation to the Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting on June 2 at 5:30 p.m.