Grand Island ZBA approves variances for pole barn at 1600 Fix Road

The Town of Grand Island Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved variances Aug. 7 to allow a pole barn at 1600 Fix Road, the board said.

The applicant, Mike Driscoll of 1600 Fix Road, told the board he wanted a pole barn to store equipment and to shelter a mobile camper in winter because his wife is disabled and has difficulty using tarps. “I'd like to put up a pole barn. Needed a couple variances, on the side of the yard between the neighbor's fence and my house,” Driscoll said on the record.

Board members considered two variances: an area (storage) variance of 77 square feet and a six-foot side-yard setback (reducing the required 16-foot side-yard to 10 feet). During discussion Driscoll initially mentioned a height issue but later clarified the building height of about 16 feet did not require a variance.

John Bridal moved to approve an area detached garage storage variance of 77 square feet; Michael Todaro seconded. The board then voted to grant the six-foot side-yard variance on the West line. The board recorded the votes as unanimous in favor; the board noted the applicant still must obtain a building permit before construction.

Board members summarized their rationale as the need for storage, a finding that the structure would not be a detriment to the neighborhood, and that it would “clean up the area.” Members also said the smaller encroachment preserved yard space and should not cause drainage problems.

Procedural notes: the board opened the hearing, took public comment (none was offered in opposition), and advised any aggrieved party may file an Article 78 proceeding in New York State Supreme Court within 30 days of the decision’s filing with the town clerk. The board’s approval is subject to the applicant securing required town permits before construction.

The board signaled no further conditions; the applicant was directed to apply for the required permit and proceed from there.