Commission grants front- and rear-setback variances for 2627 Ben Hill Avenue

At its January 2025 meeting the East Point Planning and Zoning Commission approved a variance request for property at 2627 Ben Hill Avenue that will reduce the front-yard setback by 15 feet and the rear-yard setback by 10 feet to accommodate a new two-story home. The applicant is Richard Winfrey; the case number is P2024V-002-11.

Staff recommended approval of a 15-foot front setback reduction (making the front yard 30 feet) and a 10-foot rear reduction (making the rear yard 20 feet). Winfrey told the commission the lot has an irregular shape that would otherwise force a house to sit out of scale with neighboring homes; he said the design will match neighborhood character with a brick water table on the lower level and lap siding above. He also said the new house will be built for sale and be approximately 1,600 square feet with two stories.

The commission discussed specific measurements and site constraints. Staff clarified the existing R-1 zoning front-yard setback is 45 feet and the rear is 30 feet, and that the applicant requested 15 feet of front relief and 10 feet of rear relief. After closing the public hearing the commission voted to approve the variances. Staff also reminded the commission and applicant that the proposed house must meet the infill-design process (Article J of the zoning ordinance), which requires a survey of nearby houses and a community-input component before final building permits are issued. As Director Smith stated, the applicant "has to abide by those guidelines." The commission noted it is the final arbiter for this variance and the decision will not go to mayor and council.

Why it matters: The variance will allow a new house to be constructed in a manner staff and the applicant say is consistent with the street pattern; the infill review and community-input requirement remain conditions of future approvals and permit issuance.