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Warren Zoning Board approves multiple variances for 3828 Kevin Circle
Summary
The Warren Zoning Board of Appeals granted permission to expand a front porch, enclose a rear "Florida room," and install a gazebo and shed at 3828 Kevin Circle despite three no votes and a written neighbor objection read into the record without an address.
The Warren City Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 10 approved multiple variances for a single-family property at 3828 Kevin Circle, allowing an expanded covered front porch, a 13-by-25-foot enclosed rear “Florida room,” a 10-by-10-foot gazebo and an 8-by-10-foot shed.
Petitioner Raul Singh, who identified himself as the homeowner at 3828 Kevin Circle, told the board he wanted the Florida room enclosed so his children could use it in winter and said the roof structure for that space is already in place. He also said the gazebo and shed were to store lawn equipment and keep the garage clear for parking.
The board debated the size of the additions, with several members describing the cumulative increase in accessory square footage as large for a single-family lot. Secretary Jersey and other board members said they saw the additions as consistent with nearby properties; other members said the total increase—about 1,031 square feet of accessory floor area as presented in the application—was excessive.
The record included an emailed letter from a neighbor, Cindy Sarafin, opposing the request on grounds that the additions exceed the ordinance allowance and would harm neighborhood continuity. Board members noted the email did not include a return address; some said the board’s rules require name and address for public comments, while others said written comments from the public forum could still be considered at the board’s discretion.
After discussion, Mr. Clift moved to approve the request; Mr. Watts supported the motion. The board vote was 5 in favor, 3 opposed (Mr. Strovich, Mr. Green and Mr. Watts), and the motion carried. The board included the condition that the work follow required building-permit processes and applicable code inspections.
Discussion versus decision: the minutes record both technical questions from board members about existing structural support under the patio/Florida-room slab and reminders from staff that the permit process and building code review (including rat-wall/foundation requirements) remain required after approval. Several board members stressed that any final building permit will require code-compliant footings and inspections.
The board’s action covered all four requested items together rather than separating them, and members said they believed the additions could be constructed to meet code and not be a detriment to the neighborhood if built under permit.
Votes at a glance: Yes — Mr. Clift, Secretary Jersey, Mr. Sasser, Mr. Lindsey, Chairman (name recorded in minutes as chairman). No — Mr. Strovich, Mr. Green, Mr. Watts. The motion passed by a 5–3 vote.
