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ZBA approves variance to allow single-family house on undersized Lynn corner lot at Neptune Street Court
Summary
The Lynn Zoning Board of Appeals voted Jan. 7 to grant a variance allowing a single-family dwelling on a 3,115-square-foot corner lot at 5 Neptune Street Court (also referenced as 123 South Street), after hearing evidence that the parcel historically contained separate lots and a prior six-family building.
The Lynn City Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance on Jan. 7 allowing construction of a single-family dwelling on a 3,115-square-foot corner lot at 5 Neptune Street Court (also referenced as 123 South Street), parcel 036-776-033.
The petitioner, Thomas McGovern, president of Linwood Development Inc., represented by attorney Samuel A. Vitale, asked the board to vary city lot-size and frontage rules in the R4 district, citing historical lot configuration and the lot’s irregular shape. The board found the petitioner had presented evidence that a larger multi-family building previously stood on the site and that strict enforcement of the ordinance would create hardship for the owner.
Under the city's zoning, a single-family dwelling in the relevant district typically requires 10,000 square feet of land and 75 feet of frontage, with minimum front, side and rear setbacks. The subject parcel measures 3,115 square feet with about 80.13 feet of frontage along Neptune Street Court. Vitale provided recorded plans and historical city directory listings that showed multiple lots and earlier buildings, and he told the board the current lot configuration reflected decades of changes including a 1975 demolition of a six-family structure.
Ward 6 Councilor Frederick Hogan submitted a written letter supporting the variance, saying the proposed single-family use is less intensive than a prior six-family use and that there were no known abutter objections. The board heard no public opposition during the meeting.
After deliberation the board voted to grant the variance. The motion carried with all voting members recorded in favor.
Votes at a glance: Member Christopher — yes; Member Maggio — yes; Member Olson — yes; Member Lopez Hernandez — yes; (one member absent).
