Commission approves variance for boat shed at 782 Midcoff Highway

The Petersburg Borough Planning Commission approved an application from Lisa and Brian Haas for a variance from the front-yard setback requirement to allow construction of a boat shed at 782 Midcoff Highway (Government Lot 28).

Lisa Haas told commissioners the structure would be built on existing pilings, is intended to make it easier for the couple to cover and store a boat as they age, and would not be visible from the road because the right of way there is wide. She said surveyor Rick Braun prepared a plat and that a small front lot will be combined with the adjoining lot to create a conforming parcel. Haas said a building permit is pending and a contractor is ready to build if the variance is approved.

Commissioners viewed photos and a plat during public testimony; several commissioners said the structure is tucked well off the traveled road and cited the wide right of way when supporting approval. One commissioner thanked the applicants for providing the visual materials, saying it “helped me a lot.”

A motion to approve the variance, with the findings of fact and conditions of approval as presented, passed on roll call. Recorded affirmative votes were cast by Jim, Heather, Chris and John. The motion carried; absent commissioners had been recorded earlier in the meeting. The approval allows the applicants to pursue the building permit process consistent with the conditions attached to the variance.

Commissioners’ comments emphasized that the proposed shed would not be a visible eyesore from the main road and that combining the small front parcel with the rear lot would make the property conforming for the proposed structure. No further conditions or appeals were discussed at the meeting.