Council approves demolition and two‑story residence at 87 Glenwood with side‑yard variance

The Ross Town Council adopted Resolution 2523 to approve design review, a demolition permit, a nonconformity permit and a variance for a new two‑story single‑family residence at 87 Glenwood Avenue.

Planning staff summarized the project and its review history: the proposal removes a nonconforming house and detached garage and replaces them with a new two‑story home, an attached one‑car garage, and landscape features including a pool, spa, outdoor fireplace and pool enclosure. The applicant requested a variance to allow portions of the residence, pool and pool equipment to encroach into side and rear yard setbacks.

"The project went to ADR twice," planning staff said, noting ADR members raised concerns about the front yard setback, pool equipment location and a second‑story balcony; after revisions ADR supported the revised plans at its May 20 meeting, with one member not supporting the side‑yard variance for the main house.

Council members asked planning staff whether pool equipment could be placed inside the buildable envelope or, if placed in a setback, whether the owners could use a minor exception permit; staff said a minor exception for pool equipment inside a setback is possible but requires consent from the adjacent neighbor.

Council discussion also considered precedent for approving houses within a 4‑foot setback. Staff and councilors said precedent exists for accessory structures and pools but not commonly for main residences; the building code nonetheless requires at least a 3‑foot clearance from the property line.

The council approved Resolution 2523 by voice vote (all members voting yes).