Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Barn Conversion topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Zoning board approves variance to allow conversion of historic barn to residence at 1900 N. Fifth Street
Summary
The Zoning Hearing Board unanimously approved a variance permitting Jonathan Rufe to convert a historic haybarn to a principal residence at 1900 N. Fifth Street, subject to extinguishing a dwelling in a garage, not enlarging the barn, modifying the Declaration of Covenants, and annual inspections required by the township.
The East Rockhill Township Zoning Hearing Board on March 3 approved a variance that will allow property owner Jonathan Rufe to convert a historic barn on his 1900 N. Fifth Street property into a principal residence while reclassifying the existing farmhouse as an A-8 Farm Unit.
On a motion by Dan Soliday, seconded by Arlo Eby, the board voted unanimously to grant the variance from Section 27-304.A8.b, which would otherwise limit the density on the parcel. The approval is conditioned on extinguishing the dwelling unit located within the detached garage to the township's satisfaction, not increasing the barn's size or footprint, obtaining township approval to modify the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions dated June 26, 2024 (and executing a new Declaration removing the prohibition on occupying the barn), annual inspections to ensure compliance, and continued adherence to the Deed of Conservation Easement and the testimony and exhibits introduced at the hearing.
Why it matters: The property is in the Agricultural Preservation district and currently contains one A-8 Farm Unit in addition to a barn and farmhouse. The applicant argued the barn is primarily storage and that converting it would not increase stormwater impacts and would include handicap-accessible features. Testimony was provided by owner Jonathan Rufe and his fiancee, Kelly Conway. Party-status requests included Jim Nietupski and Robin Bentzley.
The board noted the conditions aimed to preserve the conservation and restrictive-covenant framework that applies to the property while allowing the proposed change in occupancy. The board's Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Decision will be executed and serve as the official record of the action. The hearing adjourned at 9:15 PM after approval of prior minutes.
