Saratoga Springs Zoning Board of Appeals members on Oct. 27 approved four applications and left several other matters open for further review.

The board voted on area variance appeals for properties at 122 North Street, 19 Aurora Avenue, 52 York Avenue and 131 Bridal Avenue. Three actions — 122 North Street, 19 Aurora Avenue and 52 York Avenue — passed unanimously 7–0. The board approved the appeal for 131 Bridal Avenue on a 5–2 vote after extended discussion and supplemental materials from the applicants.

Why it matters: These approvals clear the way for property owners to build or alter single-family homes and subdivide a lot in established neighborhoods; several approvals hinge on the board’s finding that the requested relief aligns with neighborhood character.

What the board approved:
- 122 North Street (area variance for porch): Approved. The board found that the requested front-yard relief (proposed 3.5 feet vs. required 10 feet) was substantial but consistent with neighborhood character and existing encroachments. The motion passed 7–0.

- 19 Aurora Avenue (placement of HVAC compressors): Approved. The board approved a reduced side setback for HVAC equipment (proposed ~3.2 feet vs. required 5 feet). Motion passed 7–0.

- 52 York Avenue (two-lot subdivision): Approved. The board granted variances for undersized lots (each proposed ~5,450 sq ft vs. required 6,600 sq ft) and reduced lot widths; the board noted planning-board review and a county referral showing no significant countywide impact. Motion passed 7–0.

- 131 Bridal Avenue (new single-family house): Approved 5–2. The board granted variances for combined coverage (proposed about 49% vs. 40% allowed), rear setback, total side setback and driveway percentage as shown in the submitted plans. The record notes that the applicants provided neighborhood comparables and that the lot is undersized compared with typical lots in the district; the planning board had earlier reviewed and recommended conditions.

What remains open: Several other applications received presentations or public comment but were continued for additional information, including 116 East Avenue (additions), 112 Fifth Avenue (new single-family residence; applicant to confirm impervious/porous paver calculations with city staff) and 253 Nelson (pool and equipment shed). The board asked applicants to provide comparable lot and coverage data, confirm permeable-paver credits with city staff, and consider shrinking accessory structures where feasible.

Votes at a glance (official motions recorded at meeting):
- 122 North Street — motion approved 7–0. (Appeal of Jason Duolio.)
- 19 Aurora Avenue — motion approved 7–0. (Appeal of James Hamilton.)
- 52 York Avenue — motion approved 7–0. (Appeal of Colin Christovich and Minette Carley.)
- 131 Bridal Avenue — motion approved 5–2. (Appeal of Kim and Mike Southern, applicants provided planning-board materials and neighborhood comparables.)

Board procedure notes: For applications where engineering, survey, or planning-board follow-up was requested, the board left public hearings open and scheduled the next meeting for Nov. 17, asking applicants to submit supplemental materials a week in advance when possible.

Ending: The Zoning Board will reconvene Nov. 17 to consider supplemental information and continued matters.