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.