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Coventry zoning board approves variance for Stop & Shop utility enclosure at 900 Tioga Ave.
Summary
The Coventry Zoning Board of Review approved a dimensional variance allowing an above-ground heated utility enclosure for water meters and backflow prevention devices at 900 Tioga Avenue, citing Kent County Water Authority requirements and a prior variance.
The Coventry Zoning Board of Review voted to approve a dimensional variance for an above-ground utility enclosure at 900 Tioga Avenue, allowing an accessory building for water meters and backflow prevention fittings to remain where zoning rules would otherwise prohibit it.
The applicant, Jubilee Plaza LLC on behalf of Stop and Shop Supermarket, sought approval for a 7.75-foot-by-16.25-foot accessory building with a height of 6.7 feet to enclose water meters and backflow prevention devices. The structure, located at the front corner of the lot, sits 0.6 feet from the side property line where 10 feet is required, and the applicant said the enclosure encroaches roughly 9.4 feet into the side yard.
"We're seeking approval for an accessory utility building that measures 7.75 feet times 16.25 and with a height of 6.7 feet high for an above ground heated enclosure for water meters, backflow prevention fittings, and devices," said David Rebbens, who identified himself in the meeting as representing the applicant. He told the board the above-ground enclosure was required after a leaking underground meter pit and that Kent County Water Authority requires above-ground heated enclosures to be located within 100 feet of the water main.
The application revisits a dimensional variance the board previously granted in November 2023; the applicant said underground conditions discovered during work required a slight change in the size and location of the enclosure, pushing it closer to the property line. Rebbens said the relocation was necessary to meet Kent County Water Authority separation requirements for domestic and fire protection services.
A member of the public who identified himself as a former fire chief urged the board to approve the request, saying, "I don't really see a big problem with just granting your application." Board members moved to vote the same night; the motion to accept the application as presented and to follow the planning staff report carried.
The board recorded the motion and second on the record and confirmed the ayes had it. The chairman stated the motion was approved.
No additional conditions, permit numbers or a revised site plan were specified in the transcript. The applicant indicated an engineer was available to answer technical questions, and the board referenced the planning staff report in its approval.
The decision allows the already-constructed enclosure to remain in its current location and dimensions as presented to the board.
