The Grove City Board of Zoning Appeals on Tuesday approved a variance allowing John Miller of Miller's DreamDecks to build an 8-by-35-foot covered front porch that will encroach 7 feet into the 30-foot front building setback at 2095 Presley Drive (parcel 4005738).

At the meeting, Miller said he and his contractor sought the extra depth to provide sufficient usable space for the homeowners' front porch. “We're wanting to build a front porch,” Miller told the board, describing plans for an 8-foot depth and 35-foot length.

Chair George Shalinga moved approval of the variance, noting staff's recommended condition that construction begin within 12 months; a board member seconded. During roll call, the chair and board member Robert Hahn recorded “yes” votes and the motion passed. The board noted the decision is subject to a 21-day period during which the Grove City Council may overturn the board's action.

The board record includes a letter of support from neighbors identified as the Corbetts, who said the porch would “improve and enhance the neighborhood.” The board did not record objections from adjacent property owners at the meeting.

The variance was approved with the explicit condition that construction begin within 12 months of the decision. The board chair warned applicants that starting work before the council review window carries some risk because the council can reverse the board's decision within the 21-day period.

The board did not reference any additional changes to the proposal or amendments to the motion at the meeting. Staff will notify the applicant of the formal decision and any next steps regarding permits and inspection schedules.