Zoning Board approves 31.7-foot setback variance for 39196 Lakeshore

The Harrison Township Zoning Board of Appeals voted 3-0 on May 12, 2026, to grant a 31.7-foot rear-yard setback variance for 39196 Lakeshore, allowing construction of a new residence that includes a 6-foot balcony.

Shayne Gleason, a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, moved to approve Case #08-26 and said, “I think the petitioner has done a sufficient job to prove that the hardship in this particular case is the nonconforming lot, so again, if this lot were of conforming width, they would be able to build within 30 ft. and the variance would not be requested.” David Bratto supported the motion. The board amended the motion to set the variance at 31.7 feet to explicitly include the balcony and approved it by roll call (Gleason, Bratto, Torp voting aye; Leonetti and Oparka excused).

Applicant Anthony Steiner explained that the lot is a nonconforming vacant parcel and that the homeowners plan to build a house larger than the previous structure. He stated the applicants were seeking a 31.7-foot variance (including the balcony), noting that other nearby homes sit closer to the water. Neighbor John Barta asked which houses in the area have a 70-foot setback and whether approval would set a precedent; Brian McCarthy provided additional comment. Those questions were noted during the board's group discussion but the board determined the nonconforming lot constituted a sufficient hardship to grant the variance.

The board approved routine procedural items earlier in the meeting, including the agenda and the April 14, 2026 minutes. No old or new business was raised, and no public comments were recorded outside the hearing. The board set its next meeting for June 9, 2026, and adjourned at 7:26 p.m.

Action taken: variance approved (Case #08-26 for 39196 Lakeshore).