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Board approves three variances for 42 East Cottage renovation despite neighbor drainage concerns
Summary
The Board granted variances for a front-porch setback, lot-coverage increase and alteration of a nonconforming structure at 42 East Cottage Street, finding the changes consistent with the streetscape and citing Duncan factors; neighbors raised concerns about grading and flooding, and the applicants say new drainage and a replicated brick swale will manage runoff.
The Chagrin Falls Board of Zoning Appeals voted unanimously on April 28 to grant three variances to allow renovations at 42 East Cottage Street, addressing setbacks, lot coverage and alteration of a nonconforming structure.
Zoning staff presented the three requested variances: (1) under Section 1145.02(b) to permit alteration of a nonconforming building, (2) under Section 1125.03(f) to allow a front porch that would leave a 7.5-foot front yard where 35 feet is required (a 27.5-foot variance), and (3) under Section 1125.03(e) to increase lot coverage from the 20% maximum to 26.6% (an increase of 503 square feet). The applicants' architect said the proposal had been reduced substantially after Architectural Board of Review feedback, removing a second-story garage element and narrowing the garage so a fourth variance would not be needed.
Neighbor Janine Donaldman read a letter from Ken and Mrs. Pierce of 43 East Orange Street raising concerns that earlier renovations on East Cottage had contributed to water intrusion on lower Orange Street properties. The architect and Board members acknowledged the concern and described planned upgrades: new roof drainage with controlled downspouts, replication of an existing brick drainage swale, and other stormwater-management measures. Board members reminded the applicants that Village ordinances require approved stormwater systems such as rain gardens or controlled-release mechanisms rather than direct discharge to adjacent properties.
Board member Elizabeth Hijar moved to grant all three variances, applying the Duncan factors and noting the undersized lot (approximately 7,600 square feet, about 15 percent below the R-1-60 minimum). Members found the variances not substantial in context and that the porch would bring the house into visual alignment with neighboring homes. The motion passed unanimously. The applicants were informed a 15-day appeal period will follow before written approval is issued.
