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Board cites steep topography and existing nonconforming setbacks in approving variance
Summary
Board members said the site's steep grade and pre-existing nonconforming northern building reduced the practical impact of a 26.2-foot variance request; members discussed alternatives but concluded the requested relief was the minimum necessary.
Board discussion focused on the five factors the board considers for area variance relief: neighborhood character impact, alternatives, substantialness of the variance, effect on physical/environmental conditions, and whether the difficulty is self-created.
Several board members said the steep slope behind the property and the existing nonconforming setback of the historic northern building reduced the practical impact of the proposed addition. One member summarized the view: "It's clear that they could make their proposed addition smaller and cut back the variance to some degree," but added that the marginal benefit to neighbors would be small because of the site's grade. Another member said the applicant had attempted lot-line adjustments and license agreements and had reached out to neighbors.
After weighing the factors, the board concluded the benefit sought could not be achieved by other feasible methods without materially altering the project and that the requested relief was necessary to achieve the proposed program. The motion to approve included language limiting the variance to the project as presented and the city-staff conditions about permits and timelines.
