Zoning board approves findings permit for addition at 29 Columbus Avenue

The Northampton Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously Feb. 26 to grant a findings permit for an addition at 29 Columbus Avenue, approving an application by architect Jody Barker that keeps an existing nonconforming side setback but does not increase it.

The board applied the findings-permit standard under the zoning code (section 350-9.3A7), which requires a simple majority. Barker described a single-story bedroom addition, a slight enlargement of an existing screened porch and a new one-car garage placed in a conforming location. Barker said the goal was to “make it so the house would be good for single story living as the couple grows older.” Staff confirmed no other city departments had objections and a neighbor letter of support was in the file.

Nathan Chung, planning staff supporting the board, summarized the staff findings: “It is respectful of the space and an appropriate proposal” that fits the neighborhood and makes the property better suited for residential use. After closing public comment, the board moved to approve the application and recorded a roll-call vote in which the three voting members voted in favor.

The application materials list the proposed addition’s living area as roughly 500–530 square feet, a screened-porch area of about 180 square feet, and a one-car garage of about 275 square feet; the garage will be sited in a zoning-conforming location and is not part of the relief requested. The board noted the proposal does not increase the amount of nonconformity and therefore meets the findings standard.

The board’s approval is final subject to the standard appeal period: a 20-day appeal window begins when the decision is filed with the city clerk. The applicant was advised to coordinate building-permit work with Nathan Chung’s office and the building inspector.