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Board approves Cooper guest‑house variances amid neighbor concerns about drainage and precedent
Summary
The board approved variances allowing a large detached guest house and garage on a 1.21‑acre parcel for petitioner Rob Cooper — citing an accessible, single‑story design for family needs — with conditions addressing outstanding technical review items including drainage and septic design; neighbors raised concerns about neighborhood character and runoff.
Rob Cooper told the board he seeks variances to build a single‑story, 50‑by‑100‑foot guest house with a large garage to provide an accessible space for his autistic son and a place for visiting family. Planning staff supported the request with caution about footprint size and recommended approval contingent on resolving remaining technical review comments, including drainage and septic design.
Multiple neighbors spoke in opposition, citing precedent, increased density, drainage and visual impacts. Cooper said he considered alternatives (adding to the main house or building two smaller structures) but opted for a detached, single‑story layout to keep relatives comfortable and avoid added massing. He also said he would install an advanced aerobic septic system and work with engineering on drainage. The board approved the variances, imposing the standard condition that the petitioner address outstanding project review comments and record findings of fact.
