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Planning commission approves pool and pergola at 1185 Eaton Cross; ZBA review required for front-yard mechanical units
Summary
Bloomfield Hills commissioners approved a second, adjacent accessory-structure application at 1185 Eaton Cross, finding the project compliant but conditioning final approvals on Zoning Board of Appeals review of mechanical equipment placed in front-yard areas.
The Bloomfield Hills Planning Commission unanimously approved plans for 1185 Eaton Cross on Jan. 13, finding the proposal largely compliant with dimensional standards while noting that certain front-yard mechanical equipment will require Zoning Board of Appeals review.
Ian Hogue, of Gibles Webster, explained that the property’s lot shape — a panhandle that creates additional frontage — results in multiple front yards and no rear yard, so the proposed pool, pergola and pool fence must be considered in that context. Hogue said the pool and pergola meet setback requirements and that some mechanical units in front-yard locations will need ZBA action if the commission approves the plan.
Jamie Burton, the city’s grading reviewer, said the grading remains within ordinance limits, that proposed retaining walls are under three feet, and that the applicant added leaching basins to address stormwater tied to the new amenities.
Applicant representative Matt Moer said the project is designed to be low-visibility from the street and emphasized screening: “...you just aren’t going to see anything,” he said, describing the hill and tree coverage between the road and the site.
A commissioner moved to adopt the petition as submitted, with the understanding that approvals are conditioned on required ZBA approvals for front-yard mechanical units and any dimensional variances. The motion was seconded and passed by voice vote.
Staff noted that, as with a related item earlier on the agenda, plantings and screening commitments will be monitored during permitting and city staff will forward the items requiring dimensional variance to the Zoning Board of Appeals for review next week.
The commission adjourned after completing the agenda.
