Panel approves rear-yard variance for accessibility addition at 535 Humboldt Court

The Gahanna Planning Commission on Dec. 3 approved variance V-31-2025 for a 1,192-square-foot addition at 535 Humboldt Court that will sit 18 feet 1 inch from the south property line, encroaching roughly 7 feet into the 25-foot rear-yard requirement for R-3 small-lot residential properties.

Staff told the commission that an adjacent, city-owned conservation parcel and existing trees provide screening and that easements and house orientation limit viable locations for an addition. Staff recommended approval based on limited relocation options and alignment with variance criteria.

Homeowner Steve Benninger said the addition is driven by accessibility needs: his wife uses a prosthesis and climbing stairs to the bedroom has become difficult. "She's worn a prosthesis for nearly 60 years," Benninger said, explaining that the new main-level living space would reduce daily hardship.

Rand Golvis, the project’s electrical engineer, testified that the new addition would be built over the existing electrical service and that American Electric Power requires conduit routing around the east side of the addition, constraining eastward movement of the building footprint.

Commissioners asked about drainage (an existing swale), materials (siding to match existing vinyl and brick accents), and the building-permit process. Laser moved to approve the variance; Siriano seconded. Commissioners highlighted the nature preserve behind the property and agreed the plan met necessity criteria; the motion carried on roll call.

Next steps: applicant to resolve staff comments; building-permit issuance will be handled by the building division following administrative review.