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Neighbors raise drainage and sewer concerns; Rock Beach Road variance renewal tabled to July
Summary
An application to renew setback variances for 397 Rock Beach Road was tabled to July after a nearby resident raised detailed concerns about drainage, sewer hookup costs, and whether the lot could pass a percolation test; the applicant consented to the postponement to gather additional engineering and neighbor outreach.
The Irondequoit Zoning Board of Appeals tabled the renewal of previously granted area variances for 397 Rock Beach Road after neighbors urged more information about drainage, sewer access and setback impacts.
Architect Joe O'Donnell told the board the homeowners seek renewal of earlier variances to construct a single-family house on a constrained lot and said the design differs from the older submittal mainly in garage placement. He asked whether board members would identify concerns that could be mitigated. Board member Andrew Evans said his earlier objection centered on the extent of the front and rear setback relief requested.
Resident Greg Pike, who lives at 249 Northrest Drive, described longstanding drainage and soggy yards in the area, said he doubts the parcel could pass a percolation test and raised questions about the cost and maintenance of adding sewer service from the north side of Rock Beach. Pike recommended larger rear setbacks (15–20 feet) if the front setback is reduced.
O'Donnell responded that civil engineers had vetted site issues in previous hearings, including drainage swales dedicated to the town and prior review of sewer and perc-related questions. After that exchange, O'Donnell informed the board that his client elected to table the application to July to pursue additional neighbor outreach and to bring supplemental technical documentation back to the board. The chair moved to table the matter with the applicant's consent and to leave the public hearing open; the motion carried 4-0.
What was said: "I did go and watch ... the last couple of days," said Greg Pike, pressing for stronger rear setbacks and asking, "Who maintains [a new sewer line]?"
Joe O'Donnell said engineers had previously addressed many technical points but agreed the homeowner would pursue additional information and neighbor conversations before returning.
What's next: The applicant indicated plans to consult neighbors and return at the July meeting with further information. The board left the public hearing open when it tabled the application.
