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Council grants two zoning variances for driveway and garage‑apartment projects
Summary
The council approved a driveway-width variance for Mr. Fiddler and a height variance for Samantha Gerard’s garage with an upstairs apartment (R‑2 zone); both zoning-board recommendations were approved unanimously with staff noting neighbor concerns were addressed.
The Oglesby City Council approved two zoning variances recommended by the zoning board.
On the first item, planning staff said a driveway Mr. Fiddler installed did not meet city width requirements; the zoning board recommended a variance because the lot configuration made the wider curb cut acceptable. The council approved the variance and noted the contractor would be contacted about permitting; a penalty equal to half the building-permit fee was assessed (building permit $25; penalty $12.50, for a total of $37.50).
On the second matter, Samantha Gerard requested a height variance to build a two‑car garage with a small upstairs apartment. Planning staff said the structure would exceed the R‑2 district’s 15‑foot height limit by roughly seven feet (plans indicated about 21–22 feet). Staff reported neighbors raised privacy concerns that were addressed (skylights oriented to prevent sight lines, an external staircase) and that the zoning board recommended approval. The council approved Gerard’s variance unanimously.
What happens next: staff will follow up with permit and contractor notices and ensure any penalties are paid and building-permit processes are completed before further work.
