Board approves variance for oversized backyard gazebo at 333 Carolina Street

The Clark Township Board of Adjustment on March 23 approved a variance that will allow a detached pergola or gazebo at 333 Carolina Street to exceed the township's previous 100‑square‑foot limit.

Donald B. Fraser Jr., the applicant's attorney, told the board the proposed structure measures about 21 by 25 feet — roughly 525 square feet — and reaches a peak of about 15 feet, which under the ordinance filed with the board required variance relief. Fraser said the lot is approximately 15,000 square feet and that the proposed structure sits more than 30 feet from side and rear property lines. "This is not something that's overbuilt," he told the board, adding that the applicant had spoken with neighbors and found support for the project.

Applicant Katherine ("Katie") Goldich confirmed under oath that she had discussed the proposal with adjacent neighbors and said she expected no negative impacts from the addition. The attorney also noted the municipal council recently raised the permitted size for similar structures to 200 square feet, but said the application had been submitted under the prior standard.

Board members moved to approve the application and recorded a roll‑call vote in favor. The five members present — John Caliguire, Douglas Croc, Chris Tierney, Dante Tini and Chairman Ed Ruth — voted yes. There were no public speakers in opposition during the hearing. The board indicated a resolution adopting the findings will be memorialized in the minutes and filed with the applicant.

Because the structure is detached, the board granted variance relief rather than instructing the applicant to attach the pergola to the house (which, the attorney said, would make it permissible as of right). The applicant thanked the board and said she expects to proceed to building permits once the resolution is prepared.