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Board grants modified side-setback variance for O'Quinn garage after neighbor objections over drainage and character
Summary
The board approved a variance allowing an addition to an attached garage on Altadena Road to sit 23 feet from the side property line instead of the 25-foot standard in E-1 zoning after public comment raised concerns about hardship, drainage and neighborhood character.
The Jefferson County Board of Zoning Adjustment approved a modified side-setback variance for Case No. A250009, allowing an addition to an attached garage to be sited 23 feet from the side property line instead of the 25-foot requirement for E-1 zoning.
Staff described the application from property owners Casey and Krista O'Quinn for an attached garage addition on a 1.01-acre E-1 lot at 2690 Altadena Road. Staff initially described the requested side setback in the presentation and later clarified field measurements that placed the proposed building 22 feet from the side property line; staff ultimately recommended approval with a modification that the structure be located no closer than 23 feet to the side property line.
Several neighbors spoke during the public hearing. Chuck Langner, who said he lives next door at 2692 Altadena Road, questioned whether the applicant had demonstrated the hardship required for a variance and raised concerns about drainage and survey discrepancies between the properties. "I need to understand the hardship," Langner said, laying out concerns about runoff and a history of drainage work in the neighborhood.
Zoe Langner, who identified herself as living at 2692 Altadena Road, said the elevation and slope behind the lots are similar and questioned why the garage could not be placed to the rear: "It's the same drop back there. So why not?" Other nearby residents also spoke: Allison Brenner, a newer neighbor, asked what the applicant's hardship was beyond needing space for future drivers in the household; and Vicky Stein urged the board to preserve the character of E-1 lots along Altadena Road, saying those parcels often have at least one acre and side setbacks that maintain spacing.
Casey O'Quinn, the applicant, told the board a design that ties the new garage addition to the existing structure would preserve the house's appearance and that the project would include drainage work. "We're gonna trench all the way back to the creek and run pipe," O'Quinn said, describing plans to carry runoff to the creek and reduce water between the two homes.
After public comment, a board member moved to grant the variance with staff's recommended modification to a 23-foot minimum side setback; a second was given and the motion carried. The board's action permits the addition as conditioned; staff reminded the parties that zoning approvals can be issued at Room B200 and that anyone wishing to contest the decision may file an appeal in circuit court within 15 days.
The board did not record individual roll-call votes in the hearing transcript; the decision was announced as approved and staff will issue a written decision that will set any conditions for permits and inspections.
