Local Planning Agency approves variance to restore porch roof at 858 Southeast 14th Street

Michelle Arbesau, planner II in the City of Stuart development department, summarized a variance petition under the city's land development code to permit reconstruction of a roof over the front entry at 858 Southeast 14th Street within its original footprint. "The petitioner is requesting a reduced setback of 17 feet, representing an 8 foot deviation from the standard requirement," Arbesau said.

Arbesau told the board staff could not locate original plans but noted the applicant supplied a photograph showing the entry roof previously existed; staff concluded the variance would not increase density or threaten public safety, and recommended approval. She described standards of review under the City of Stuart land development code, saying variances may be granted when strict enforcement would create unnecessary hardship due to special circumstances.

Board members asked how often exceptions are granted and whether the original structure predated the current code; Arbesau said many homes were built before modern permitting and staff considered neighborhood context in its recommendation. Applicant representatives confirmed the owners had photos and plans and said the roof had been removed because of termite damage. Owner Michael Roberts was identified by staff as the property owner and a contractor; applicant representatives said they have plans and builders ready to begin work.

A motion to approve the variance was moved and seconded; the board conducted a roll-call vote and the motion passed. The board's approval allows reconstruction of the entry roof within its original footprint subject to permitting and compliance with stormwater and other building-code requirements, and any subsequent building permits will follow the usual review process.

The Local Planning Agency recorded no public objections during the hearing and staff said any appeal process would follow the city procedures for quasi-judicial decisions.