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Sylvia Adams asks planning board to change barn to residence, requests lakeside setback variance
Summary
Sylvia Adams told the planning board she wants to convert a garden barn previously approved as agricultural into a residence and requested an area variance because the parcel is roughly 145 feet from the lake while current setback rules are 150 feet; the board deemed her application complete pending drawings and will hold a public hearing May 18.
Sylvia Adams told the planning board she is requesting approval to convert a barn previously approved in 2018 as an agricultural structure into residential use and asked for an area variance for the lakeside setback.
"We are requesting the approval for the change of use of this garden barn," Adams said, noting the structure was approved under older rules and that the current 150-foot setback standard now applies while her barn sits about 145 feet from the lake. Adams said utilities (septic, electricity, HVAC) are in place and that she and her family will correct three safety items identified by the building inspector — stair head clearance, a window and fireproofing between the garage and dwelling — before a certificate of occupancy would be issued.
Board members discussed the barn footprint, the proposed lean-to (which Adams said was intended for equipment and not habitable space), and details about footings and surface materials. A board member noted that under New York State law compacted gravel can be considered a non‑permeable surface, and the board discussed appropriate pad thickness and contractor oversight; the chair said a 4‑inch footing specification is typical for contractor decisions.
After clarifying drawings and site details, the board moved and voted to deem Adams' application complete, with staff instructed to receive the final lean‑to drawings and surface clarifications within several days so the application can proceed to the public hearing on May 18.
The public meeting will allow neighbors to comment and the board expects to vote on the application that night.
