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Neighbors oppose Bell Street addition as board tables variance request for 183 Bell Street
Summary
The Board of Zoning Appeals tabled a request to expand a small Bell Street home after multiple neighbors testified about chronic parking, drainage problems and the property's use as a short-term rental; the application was tabled at the applicant's request for further review and owner response.
The Board of Zoning Appeals tabled consideration of a variance for 183 Bell Street (Permanent Parcel No. 931-18-014) after neighbors voiced strong opposition on Feb. 24.
Staff member Jamieson explained that the corner property at Bell and American Street is nonconforming with a current front-yard setback of 21.1 feet where 30 feet is required. The owners, Lee and Kevin Kruszenski, sought permission to alter the nonconforming structure and a 7-foot variance to allow a modest 238-square-foot addition intended to improve circulation, add a second upstairs bedroom and a side-entry mudroom. Architect George Clemens said the addition would respect side setbacks and be set back slightly farther than the existing house front.
Neighborhood opposition Several American Street neighbors testified in opposition. Deborah Meyer of 100 American Street submitted a written analysis addressing the seven Duncan variance factors, arguing the variance would be substantial, would alter neighborhood character and that the property already enjoys beneficial use as a short-term rental. William McSherry, Catherine McSherry and Jean Cullen described chronic parking problems when rental guests park on both sides of the narrow street, sometimes blocking passage and raising safety concerns for children. Neighbors also said stormwater from the property has damaged neighboring driveways and could worsen with increased impervious surface.
Board response and tabling Board members wrestled with whether the Zoning Board should address issues tied to short-term rental management or leave them to other Village processes. Architect George Clemens said proper stormwater connections could address drainage and that the property should have adequate parking for a three-bedroom house if the garage were used for parking rather than as a game room. Because the property owners were absent (travel), Mr. Schofield requested the matter be tabled to allow the owners to address neighbors' concerns directly; the Board tabled the application at the applicant's request for future consideration.
Next steps: The application will return to a future meeting when the applicants can respond to neighborhood concerns and provide any additional materials the Board requests.
