Minerva zoning board approves porch-roof variance for disabled homeowner at 204 Scott Drive

The Municipality of Minerva Zoning Hearing Board on June 3 approved a variance allowing a porch roof to encroach into the 10-foot side-yard setback at 204 Scott Drive.

Paul, a staff member for the board, introduced application 26-6A from Chuck and Barb Egan, citing Article 3 (District Regulations), Sections 306 and Table 301 of Minerva Zoning Ordinance No. 2779 as amended. Robert Kelly, who said he represented the Egans, testified the homeowner, Chuck Egan, is “100% disabled” and needs a porch roof at the house’s main entrance for weather protection and easier access. “He just wants a porch roof,” Kelly said.

Kelly clarified the project is not an enclosed addition but a roof over an existing 12-by-8 concrete slab. He described the roof header at about 7 feet and the peak around 10 feet, and said the roof will use shingles to match the house. Staff and the applicant confirmed the roof will not extend beyond the existing slab, that downspouts will be routed to avoid runoff onto neighboring property, and that neighbors were notified by letter and orange placard; no correspondence opposing the request was provided to the board.

Board members asked technical questions about height, runoff and neighbor awareness. After discussion, a board member moved to approve the variance to allow the porch roof to encroach into the side-yard setback; another member seconded and the motion passed. The transcript records the motion and multiple members saying “Aye,” but does not provide a roll-call tally in the record.

Next steps for the applicants include obtaining the required building and zoning permits and any inspections associated with construction; no additional conditions or appeals were recorded in the hearing transcript.