ZBA okays 6x6 front-yard deck for 928 West Liberty Street
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Summary
The zoning board granted an area variance enabling a 6-foot-by-6-foot open-air deck in the front yard at 928 West Liberty Street after the owner’s representative said the existing stoop is deteriorating and the change would improve access.
The City of Rome Zoning Board of Appeals approved an area variance on Dec. 3 permitting a 6-foot-by-6-foot open-air deck in the front yard of 928 West Liberty Street (item 25-023).
Bruce Hopkins spoke on behalf of his daughter, owner Melissa Hopkins, saying the current stoop (approximately 3 by 4 feet) is falling into disrepair and replacing it with a larger deck would improve everyday access and make moving items in and out of the house easier. "That's what our preference would be," he said when describing a 6-by-6 deck; he added the applicant would accept a slightly smaller alternative if necessary.
Oneida County Department of Planning provided a letter dated Nov. 12, 2025, signed by James J. Genovese, with no recommendation as to final action. After considering the statutory area-variance factors — neighborhood character, feasible alternatives, substantiality, environmental impact and self-creation of hardship — the board members voiced unanimous support and approved the variance. The codes office was identified as the next contact for permits; staff advised the applicant to consult Mark Domenico regarding building permits and compliance.
The board’s vote was recorded verbally on the record with all members present indicating support; no public comments were offered during the hearing.