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Planning panel approves 6‑foot fence at Beth El Hebrew congregation over precedent concerns
Summary
The Alexandria Planning Commission approved a development site plan amendment allowing a 6‑foot open fence at Beth El Hebrew Congregation to improve security, passing on a 4–3 vote after commissioners debated safety, aesthetics and precedent for front‑yard fence reductions.
The Alexandria Planning Commission on March 4 approved a request from Beth El Hebrew Congregation to amend a 1968 site plan and allow a 6‑foot open fence in what the city’s R‑20 zoning classifies as a required 70‑foot front yard.
Staff planner Maggie Cooper told commissioners the congregation received a federal grant to fund security improvements and is seeking a modification so a six‑foot, roughly 75 percent‑open metal fence could be installed closer to the sidewalk to direct visitor flow and protect children at play. "Staff is recommending approval," Cooper said.
Elizabeth Bayer, executive director of Bethel/Beth El Hebrew Congregation, said the…
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