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Planning commission approves variance for addition at 1028 Green Valley Road
Summary
The Los Ranchos de Albuquerque Planning & Zoning Commission approved variance V2501 to allow a proposed addition at 1028 Green Valley Road to sit 11 ft 5 in from the western property line, finding limited encroachment and minimal impact to neighbors after staff changed its recommendation to support the applicant.
The Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque voted unanimously May 13 to approve variance V2501, allowing a three-foot-seven-inch reduction from the required 15-foot side-yard setback for a home addition at 1028 Green Valley Road NW.
Brennan Williams, who provides planning and zoning support for the village, said the application returned to the commission following an April 15 Board of Trustees remand. Williams said the applicant shifted its legal argument to rely on criterion five of the variance standard (Section 9.225E7B5), which considers "other relevant factors" that justify a variance when weighed against the public interest, village character and the master plan. "Staff is in agreement with the arguments made by the applicant and is recommending that the planning and zoning commission approve V2501," Williams said.
Agent Maya Mullen, representing property owner Brie Love Lady, told commissioners the proposal would encroach onto the setback by about 75 square feet but would not block access to utilities or emergency service routes. Mullen described a 6-foot chain-link fence separating the subject site from the neighboring parcel and said a permanent easement next door provides alternate access if needed. "This variance does not interrupt any of that emergency access," Mullen said.
Neighbors who live adjacent to or near the property spoke in support. William Swope, who lives at 1030 Green Valley Road, said he reviewed the plans and did not expect negative effects on his property. Vincent Sanchez (682 Rio Grand) and Thomas Smith (1020 Green Valley Road) also urged approval, saying the addition would be consistent with neighborhood character and could improve property values.
Commissioner Baldwin confirmed that staff's earlier report (from February) recommended denial and that the new staff recommendation reflects the applicant's reframed argument under criterion five. Commissioners asked about emergency vehicle access and aesthetics; Williams said the site maintains a legal access width and includes a turnaround in front of the existing garage.
Commissioner Barrow moved to approve the variance, and Commissioner Baldwin seconded the motion with the condition that the approval include the staff findings. The commission voted by roll call: Barrow — yes; Baldwin — yes; Tagley Pedra — yes; Edward — yes; Haywood — yes; Homeman (chair) — yes. Commissioner Martinez was absent. The motion carried, and the public hearing for V2501 was closed.
The approved variance allows the planned architectural and functional improvements described in the applicant's packet to proceed; the decision was remanded from the Board of Trustees and resolves this portion of the appeal. The commission did not record any amendments to the motion beyond adopting staff findings.
Next steps: the applicant may proceed consistent with the approved variance and any applicable permit requirements. The commission record shows the approval was based on the code standard cited by staff (Section 9.225E7B5) and the factual findings presented at the May 13 hearing.
