Troy Zoning Board approves use variance to convert 253 Sixth Avenue to two-family

The Troy Zoning Board of Appeals voted to approve a use variance for 253 Sixth Avenue, allowing the property to be converted from a single-family residence to a two-family dwelling.

The applicant's representative, Anna Berry, told the board her client has contracted to buy the house and that the building already contains an "in-law" apartment with separate utilities, kitchens and back entrances. "My name is Anna Berry. I represent HDT Estates, and my client is seeking a use variance, to convert 253 Sixth Avenue, which is currently a single family home to a 2 family home," Berry said during the meeting.

Board members first considered whether the project required a full environmental declaration. A motion was made and carried that the proposal is an unlisted action under the city's environmental review procedure and that, after review of the environmental assessment form submitted by the applicant, the board could issue a negative declaration finding no substantial adverse environmental impact.

In discussing the use-variance criteria, board members noted the property's interior layout and the applicant's prior renovation of nearby 239 Sixth Avenue, a two-family building. The board accepted the argument that, under current conditions, the owner could not achieve a reasonable rate of return if the property remained and was marketed strictly as a single-family rental.

The board then voted to approve the use variance. The board recorded no letters of opposition and no speakers from the public testified for or against the request at the meeting.

The applicant was told the variance would allow renovation and occupancy as a two-family home; the applicant said renovation would proceed promptly if approved.

The board closed the item and moved to the next agenda item.