Board discusses pool variance for 11818 NE 7th Avenue, seeks dimensional clarifications and possible repositioning

The board held an extended discussion of a variance request for a pool located within a side‑front setback at 11818 NE 7th Avenue. The applicant and board reviewed the variance history: the property previously received a variance, but the submitted drawings did not show a clear dimension from the pool waterline to the property line, which the board requires (10 feet from waterline to property line is the standard reference used in prior reviews). Board members pressed the applicant to demonstrate that the request is the minimum variance necessary and to show any alternative pool placements that would avoid an encroachment into the setback.

The Chair and other members explained operational constraints for pool fencing: if a pool sits near a property line, fencing rules and the village’s allowed fence heights will determine the distance between the waterline and any required protective fence (the board noted fences are often required to sit at least 2 feet from the waterline in practice depending on other siting considerations). The board did not make a final recommendation and tabled the item, urging the applicant to resubmit corrected drawings, show revised setbacks (including any adjustments to fence location and height), and supply supportive evidence for any claimed special circumstances. The board confirmed that if the applicant submits the revised materials by the Monday before the next meeting, the item can be placed early on the subsequent agenda for reconsideration.