Wallington board approves variance to convert 87 Midland Ave. into two-family home

The Wallington Zoning Board of Adjustment on Feb. 24 unanimously approved a use and height variance allowing the conversion of 87 Midland Ave. from a single-family dwelling to a two-family residence, the board said.

Thomas J. Mesuk, the applicant’s architect, testified that the proposal would extend the existing second floor to align with the first-floor footprint, add a new front porch and stairs to grade, and require a height variance because the proposed building height is 27 feet 7 inches where 25 feet is permitted in the borough’s Business Zone. Mesuk told the board the increased height results from the property’s grading and said the proposed height "would be consistent with neighboring buildings."

Board members raised questions about lot width, the parking layout and on-site vehicle maneuvering, the detached garage and an existing shed, and the condition of water, gas, electric and plumbing at the property. Testimony recorded at the meeting said the shed would be removed, and the board noted that parking in the front yard would not be permitted and that the driveway must allow vehicles to turn on site.

The public portion was opened for questions and comments; no members of the public spoke. A motion to approve the application, made by Andrew Donaldson and seconded by James Furtak, was passed by roll call vote with all members present voting aye: Furtak, Surdyka, Rebecky, Ivanicki, Aiello and Donaldson. Approval was granted subject to compliance with the Neglia Engineering report and the conditions discussed on the record, including removal of the shed.

The meeting was called to order at 7:31 p.m. by Chairman John Rebecky and adjourned at 7:51 p.m.