Zoning board clears multiple consent and abbreviated variance petitions, including decks, driveway and a small addition

At its regular meeting, the Newport Zoning Board adopted the minutes, accepted two withdrawal requests (34 Sherman Street and 57 Gould Street), approved a 12‑month extension for 34 South Baptist Street and placed one summary calendar petition (16 Mount Vernon) on the consent calendar for unanimous approval.

The board then heard five abbreviated petitions. Highlights included: • 35 Elm Street (Corey McCoy): Applicant requested a curb cut; staff clarified the work would yield one legal parking space under city standards and the board conditioned approval on written condo‑association consent being submitted to the zoning office. • 3 Bush Street (John and Lisa Daugherty): Counsel described a rear deck alteration that reduces side‑setback invasions and slightly lowers lot coverage; the petition was approved unanimously. • 12 Hunter Ave (Costello/McNamara): A small rear addition converting deck to living space raised lot coverage minimally; nearby neighbor provided support and the board approved the petition.

All abbreviated items were granted with the standard condition that projects be started and substantially complete within 12 months or subject to an extension request to the zoning officer, and that outstanding public‑notice invoices be paid before recording.