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Johnstown Zoning Board denies Sentry Acquisitions’ request to convert 39 1/2 Cayadutta St. to a studio apartment
Summary
The Zoning Board of Appeals on June 26 denied Sentry Acquisitions LLC’s Special Permit request to convert an ancillary building at 39 1/2 Cayadutta Street into a residential studio, citing owner-occupancy, rental prohibition, setback noncompliance and a self-created hardship under local zoning code.
The Johnstown Zoning Board of Appeals on June 26, 2025, denied a Special Permit requested by Sentry Acquisitions LLC to convert an ancillary building at 39 1/2 Cayadutta Street into a residential studio, concluding the proposal did not comply with local zoning requirements.
Fire Chief Larry O’Regan, citing the city’s Zoning Code, recommended denial. The board recorded three specific problems under Section 22-803: an accessory dwelling unit is not allowed unless the property is owner-occupied; the structure cannot be used as a rental; and the project did not meet required setback requirements. Board members also noted Section 22-1605(b), which the minutes cite to say a use variance cannot be granted when the hardship is self-created; the board concluded the applicant created the hardship by converting a former commercial storefront to a residential unit.
Board Member Judy Swatt moved to deny the Special Permit; the motion was seconded by Board Member Robert Gallt. The board recorded Ayes: 3, Absent: 1 (Rocco Semprivio), Noes: 0, Abstain: 0, and the application was denied.
Earlier in the meeting the board approved minutes from May 15, 2025, on a motion by Swatt seconded by Robert Salamack. The meeting adjourned at 3:52 p.m. The minutes for June 26, 2025, were submitted by City Clerk Carrie M. Allen.
The denial was based on the Code Enforcement Officer's recommendation and the board’s finding that the proposal did not meet zoning requirements. The minutes do not record testimony from the applicant or any conditions for resubmission; they note the applicant had earlier received approval only for exterior stabilization and aesthetic work.
