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ZBA approves Habitat for Humanity setback variance; asks for minor rearward shift
Summary
The board approved a front-yard setback variance for a Habitat for Humanity infill house on Gail Place but conditioned approval on the applicant pushing the structure back roughly 4½ feet (to an effective 30-foot front setback) and providing an updated map.
James Diana, architect for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh, presented plans for a prefabricated, two-and-a-half-story, three-bedroom house on a Gail Place lot. Diana said the building location was driven by a Central Hudson utility easement and that the proposed footprint met all bulk requirements except the front-yard setback.
Janis Berg, Habitat board president, told the board the organization has maintained the property and that the project is intended to provide affordable homeownership; she said Habitat has roughly 400 families on its waiting list and described the build as a pilot outside the City of Newburgh. Berg asked the board to approve the variance so the project can proceed.
Board members discussed the five variance factors and noted the utility easement limited alternatives. Board member Donna Hopper Rein moved to approve the variance with a condition to move the house approximately 4½ feet rearward (or to a 30-foot front setback) and to submit an updated map reflecting that adjustment; Greg M. Hermance Sr. seconded. The roll call recorded affirmative votes from Hermance, Masten, Politi, Rein and Chairman Scalzo; the motion carried. The board advised the applicant to provide finalized plans and a new map showing the agreed adjustment before issuance of any building permits.
