Zoning board OKs variance to rebuild damaged three-season room at 821 S. Jackson Blvd (Pet. 2606)

The Chesterton Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously June 25 to grant a variance allowing the reconstruction of a three-season room at 821 South Jackson Boulevard that was damaged in a May 2025 wind event.

Petitioner David Vanderlice appeared before the board to describe the storm damage and the need to replace the out-of-production three-season components. Vanderlice said the contractor estimates to replace the unit rose from about $28,000 to nearly $50,000, and that insurance is in process. The board received photographic evidence of the damaged corner and structural condition.

Building staff told the board they had inspected the site and did not object to rebuilding the existing structure so long as conditions are recorded restricting future enlargement that would further reduce the rear setback. Counsel and staff drafted findings and an amended condition to make clear the reconstructed room must remain within the existing footprint and that future owners would not be allowed additional encroachment beyond that authorized reconstruction.

The board voted to close the public hearing and grant Petition 2606 “subject to the conditions on record.” (Vote: unanimous by roll call.) The conditions include limiting the reconstruction to the existing footprint and a note in the findings to prevent subsequent expansions that would reduce the rear setback beyond the relief granted.

The decision allows Vanderlice to pursue permits to rebuild the three-season room but preserves the board’s authority to require full permitting and inspections consistent with the recorded conditions.