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Council discusses rising accessory‑structure variance requests as consent items pass
Summary
Council approved conditional use permits and variances for accessory structures on the consent agenda but Council member Calvert raised concerns that an increasing number of variances may reflect broader zoning issues and asked the zoning task force and planning commission to consider long‑term fairness and standards.
The council approved multiple consent items for accessory structures (including conditional use permits at Orchard Road and Highland Road) after a brief discussion and a request by Council member Calvert to pull items for comment. Calvert said the council has seen more accessory‑structure variance requests recently and urged the zoning task force and planning commission to consider whether standards are keeping pace with development.
"Some of the time there are really good reasons for it... but I do just start wondering if we are opening a Pandora's box," Council member Calvert said, noting fairness concerns for residents on smaller lots. After discussion the council voted to approve the consent agenda items.
