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Zoning board denies Echevarria’s request to continue multi‑unit use at Hillside Avenue property
Summary
The Lower Providence Zoning Hearing Board denied Jacob Echevarria’s use‑variance request to continue multiple dwelling units at 305 Hillside Avenue after public opposition and board deliberation; Gary Brown recused from voting.
The Lower Providence Township Zoning Hearing Board denied an application by Jacob Echevarria for a use variance to continue multiple dwelling units at 305 Hillside Avenue.
Gail Hager read the application and announced the board would consider a use variance under the code. The chairman said Gary Brown was recusing himself from voting on this item but would remain to ask questions. Applicant Jacob Echevarria said he purchased the property in October 2023 and described the existing square footage and configuration, including that the garage apartment measures less than 400 square feet.
Neighbors and other members of the public testified in opposition. Michael Ashride, who identified himself as a nearby resident, argued the applicant had not established the statutory criteria for unnecessary hardship and that permitting the multiunit use would alter the neighborhood: "The only unnecessary hardship that the applicant alleges has been created by the applicant having purchased the property without, understanding," Ashride said, urging denial.
After deliberation, board member Travis DeCaro made a motion to deny the variance request; the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote. The board limited its decision to the request before it; if the applicant seeks to expand the number of units in the future, he would have to return to the board.
The denial concludes the board’s review of the Echevarria application at this meeting; the chairman reminded the public the board will reconvene on November 26 for other business.
