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BZA approves Morrow variances to site solar carport over long‑standing gravel pad
Summary
William Morrow won approval for front‑ and side‑yard variances at 3207 South Rogers Street to place a 30x24 carport supporting solar panels over an existing gravel pad. Staff recommended denial, but the board cited practical difficulties given the pad's age and parking configuration and approved both variances, 4–0.
William Morrow told the board the existing gravel pad has been used for parking for 12–15 years and that a 30x24 carport atop that pad would host solar panels sized to meet household demand. Staff had recommended denial of the front‑setback request (VAR‑26‑27 A) and the side‑yard variance for an after‑the‑fact expansion (VAR‑26‑27 B), noting the petitioner could reduce size, relocate the carport, or place it over the driveway.
Morrow said moving the structure 5 feet back would put it on a walkway and create awkward circulation and aesthetic issues, and said he needed the full pad size to achieve sufficient solar capacity. "I'm trying to get both purposes fulfilled," Morrow said, describing safety concerns from prior fender benders and the need to mount the inverter and batteries reliably. The board found the long‑standing pad, parking constraints and solar goals created practical difficulties and approved both variances unanimously. Staff advised the petitioner to coordinate permits and documentation for any after‑the‑fact elements.
