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Board approves setback variance at 109 Washington Street to allow roof extension and mobility ramp
Summary
The board unanimously approved a variance at 109 Washington St. to permit roof extensions and a mobility ramp on a nonconforming lot so the owner can "age in place," with staff and the most affected neighbor supporting the application.
The Planning & Zoning Board unanimously approved a variance for 109 Washington Street on Jan. 6 to reduce the side yard setback from roughly 4.7 feet to 2.8 feet, allowing the owner to extend an existing roof over decks and install a wheelchair ramp.
Attorney Ellen Avery Smith, representing the owner Mark Arnold, said the house sits on a nonconforming lot created in the 1920s and that the narrow side yard and a fixed electrical panel limit options. "He recently bought a house at 109 Washington Street ... and he wants to age in place," Avery Smith said, describing a plan to extend the existing roofline to provide shade and to build a ramp for mobility needs.
Architect Mike Copenhaver described the design as a modest covered area of about 10 by 10 feet and a ramp to serve the rear door; he said the proposal keeps existing decks and works around the electrical panel. Staff told the board the lot is nonconforming and that the requested variance meets the statutory criteria for hardship tied to an existing condition.
A supporting letter from the most affected neighbor was submitted to the board; no members of the public spoke in opposition. Board members described the proposal as consistent with the public interest in enabling residents to remain in their homes while preserving neighborhood character.
The motion to grant PZB20250098 passed on a unanimous roll call. The board noted the approval applies to the specific details presented; any change to the use or configuration would require further approval.
