Zoning board approves driveway expansion at 1731 Wexford Drive

The Bowling Green Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a variance to allow a 9-foot-by-32-foot driveway extension at 1731 Wexford Drive on a motion by Jay Sachman and second by Jeff Crawford.

The board heard planning staff explain that city rules generally limit a driveway serving a one- or two-unit dwelling to 20 feet or to the width of the garage it serves. Planning staff showed a sketch and aerial images of the property and said the proposed extension would remain about 8 feet from the nearest property line.

Applicant Jeffrey Schly told the board the request was driven primarily by safety concerns for his three young children and by frequent on‑street parking in his neighborhood. "The main thing for wanting this extension on my driveway, it just comes down to safety," Schly said, adding that the extra pad would let his family open vehicle doors without placing children in the street and would give visitors a place to park off the road.

Board members said the narrow street and parking patterns there supported finding a "practical difficulty" under the zoning code. One member noted nearby houses have received similar approvals in recent months and said the extension would improve safety for children who play in the neighborhood.

On the vote, Jerry Anderson, Jeff Crawford, Tim Emmer, Bob Mccumber, Rod Noble and Jay Sachman recorded affirmative votes. The board instructed the applicant to follow up with the planning department to complete required paperwork.

No formal conditions or amended motions were recorded. Appeals from the board's decision may be taken to the Wood County Common Pleas Court.