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Commission reviews Habitat for Humanity site plan, notes variances for undersized lot on Main Street
Summary
Franklin Township commissioners reviewed a Habitat for Humanity proposal for a single-family, 100% affordable house on two combined undersized lots at Main Street, discussed variances for lot coverage (27.7% vs. 20% allowed) and impervious coverage (38.8% vs. 30% allowed), and recommended pervious paving and consideration of solar and larger electrical service.
Commissioners reviewed a site-plan application from Habitat for Humanity proposing to build a single-family dwelling (100% affordable) on Main Street by consolidating two undersized lots (combined 5,000 sq ft) and discussed several variance requests.
Paul (planner) explained the applicant seeks relief from the minimum lot area (required 7,500 sq ft, proposed consolidated lot 5,000 sq ft), lot coverage of 27.7% where 20% is allowed, and impervious surface of 38.8% where 30% is permitted. The application indicated the property is currently vacant and that the proposed house would be a modest ranch-style dwelling with no garage and retaining a large existing tree (contractor plans for a snow fence around it during construction).
Commissioners recommended measures to reduce imperviousness (pervious paving for driveway), suggested Habitat consider rooftop solar and a slightly larger electrical service to accommodate potential future electric vehicle charging, and noted the project aligns with township affordable-housing goals. The commission also observed the site plan was brief and will require variance applications before a zoning board hearing; members encouraged Habitat to provide additional details (tree measurements, exact house footprint) in subsequent filings.
Next steps: the applicant will apply for variances at the appropriate boards; the commission will provide a conditional recommendation noting the pervious-paving and tree-preservation suggestions.
