Coventry zoning board approves several dimensional variances, including Duprees’ porch

The Coventry Zoning Board approved a set of dimensional variances at its Oct. 2 meeting, including a variance allowing Dennis and Erin Dupree to add a farmer’s porch to their 1880 farmhouse at 877 Plainfield Pike.

The Duprees told the board they plan a "farmer's porch" to restore a porch for their home; the proposed porch would set the house 67 feet from the front property line where a 100-foot setback is normally required. Staff reported positive findings and described the project as having minimal impact. Members moved to approve the application, incorporate the staff report into their findings and forgo the normal ratification process; the motions were seconded and approved by voice/roll-call votes.

The board also ratified several other previously considered matters. Members amended and ratified the decision for Fernando Gonzalez (5 Hill Farm Camp, Assessor's plot map 33 lot 6.13) to reflect that the earlier action was a dimensional variance only (the special-use language was removed) and voted to ratify the application as amended. The board ratified a Peter Romanos application for a 12-by-20 shed that increases lot coverage to roughly 32.272% (where 20% is permitted) and ratified an application for a 30-by-40 accessory family dwelling unit for Donald (appears as 'r Datino/Antonio') on Hope Furnace Road with a 20-foot setback where 50 feet is required.

Votes on the approvals were taken by roll call and voice; members who voiced approval did so during the meeting and the motions passed. The board’s actions incorporated staff findings as part of the record.

Next steps: approved variances take effect according to local rules; the board did not identify additional implementation conditions at the meeting.