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Douglass supervisors oppose variance to convert Grosser Road barn into second dwelling
Summary
A developer's representative sought a use variance to convert a barn at 1446 Grosser Rd into an in-law suite; the board concluded the hardship appeared self-imposed and voted to oppose the variance at the Zoning Hearing Board.
A representative for an applicant asked the Douglass Township Zoning Hearing Board to allow conversion of an existing barn at 1446 Grosser Road into a second dwelling to be used as an in‑law suite. The applicant's representative said subdivision to create a separate lot was too expensive and offered a notarized letter asserting occupancy conditions.
Planning Agency and several board members questioned whether the proposal created a legitimate hardship. "The hardship is self-imposed, financial burden is not a hardship," Chair Josh Stouch said, adding that two dwellings on one lot create enforcement, tax and sewer-connection issues. Solicitor Wendy McKenna told the board that the Board of Supervisors makes recommendations only and that the burden of proof lies with the applicant at the Zoning Hearing Board.
After discussion the board voted unanimously to not recommend the variance and authorized the solicitor to attend the Zoning Hearing Board to oppose the proposal or to send a letter opposing the variance. The Zoning Hearing is scheduled for Nov. 26, 2024.
The board's action is a recommendation to the Zoning Hearing Board; the Zoning Hearing Board will make the final legal determination on the use-variance request.
