Board approves two-story addition at 8604 Driftwood Lane, citing lot shape as hardship

The Harvey Cedars Land Use Board voted unanimously on Oct. 16 to approve a two-story, 325-square-foot addition at 8604 Driftwood Lane that required front-yard, side-yard and a slight roof-height variance.

Attorney James Raban presented the application for owners Peter and Jeannette Gadaleta. Engineer Jason Marciano testified the property’s L-shaped configuration and its location adjacent to the municipal boundary with Long Beach Township produce an exceptional and unique hardship, and described the proposal as a modest addition that preserves light and air for neighboring lots.

"This property is considered a hardship due to the L-shaped lot with a municipal boundary against it with an exceptional and unique shape of the property," Marciano said, describing five off-street parking spaces on the site so no parking variance is needed.

Project manager Zach Hammell described interior changes including a new bedroom and bathroom on the first floor, a master suite on the second floor, and a conforming elevator at the rear. Owner Peter Gadaleta said he has owned the home for six years and needs an additional bedroom and storage space; he said landscaping could be adjusted to minimize neighbor impacts.

After a brief public comment period (opened and closed), Mayor John Imperiale moved to approve the application; Joseph Gieger seconded the motion and the board voted unanimously in favor.

The board’s approval included the variances testified to at the hearing; the project moves forward subject to any standard municipal permits and inspections.