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Council continues Comfort garage variance after questions about an abandoned alley and sight lines
Summary
Council heard a staff presentation on a variance for a proposed 576 sq ft garage that would set back 8 ft 9 in from C Street (an improvement over an existing 4 ft 9 in setback). Council asked staff to verify alley conveyance and obtain fire and building‑inspector comments; the item was continued for more information and scheduled for the next meeting.
Penelope Kirsch, a planner contracted by the city, presented Application 2502670112025 and said the applicants propose a 576‑square‑foot detached garage with a side yard setback of "8 feet 9 inches," which she noted is an improvement over the existing garage's 4 foot 9 inch setback. Kirsch also said nearby properties contain nonconforming setbacks that support the variance findings under Blue Lake municipal code.
Applicants Lorraine and Jace Comfort spoke in favor and a neighbor (Adeline Jones) said the new garage would be compatible with recent nearby additions. Council members pressed staff on whether the proposed structure would encroach on an abandoned alley and on line‑of‑sight hazards for backing vehicles. One council member asked staff to provide title/parcel records verifying alley conveyance and to obtain building‑inspector and volunteer fire department comments before any approval.
Council voted to continue the item to allow staff to confirm alley title, secure fire and building‑inspection feedback on sight lines and setbacks, and return with any related documents. No final decision on the variance was made tonight. "We can definitely follow‑up with fire and building and get those comments for you," Kirsch said when asked about obtaining those reviews.
The hearing included public testimony from the applicants and a local contractor who said he would construct the garage if approved. Staff also confirmed two written comments on file—one in support and one opposed—that are included in the staff packet.
