Zoning Board of Appeals approves setback variances for 707 Gear Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to approve a variance for a property at 707 Gear Street that reduces required setbacks and permits a detached single-car accessory structure behind the principal building. The board made the decision during its meeting on July 20, 2026.

The chair read the board’s findings and concluded that the subject property, located in a low-density residential zone, meets the narrow criteria for a variance. "Based upon the facts of this case, the zoning board of appeals does find and conclude that the request by Christine Taylor for a variance to reduce the north setback from 40 to 20 feet and the southwest setback from 40 to 30 feet along Gear Street to allow a detached single-car accessory structure to the rear of the principal structure is approved," the chair said.

In explaining the decision, the chair said the board found a hardship unique to the property that was not self-inflicted, determined the variance would not confer a special privilege, and judged the requested relief to be the minimum necessary and compatible with adjacent properties. The chair also stated that granting the variance would not conflict with the purpose or intent of the zoning code and would not conflict with the adopted comprehensive plan.

A board member moved to approve the resolution; another member seconded, and the board voted by roll call. Members who answered affirmatively in the recorded roll call included Tony; Anne Waddich; Rosenfeld; Ramsey; Feimy; Velke; and one additional member, after which the chair announced the item approved.

The action allows the applicant to construct the detached accessory structure with the reduced setbacks described in the resolution. The board proceeded to a separate variance request for a Deer Street property later in the same meeting.