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Alton ZBA approves variances, with fire-department condition, for Decker cottage rebuild at Christian Conference property
Summary
The Zoning Board approved variances and special exceptions for a Decker property at the Christian Conference at The Bay to allow rebuilding the existing cottage on the same footprint (including variances into front and shore setbacks and a >10% gross-floor increase); the board conditioned approval on meeting fire-department review items.
The Alton Zoning Board of Adjustment approved variances and special exceptions on Aug. 6 allowing Henry and Ellen Decker to demolish and rebuild a cottage at the Christian Conference property in Grama Cove, while placing a condition that fire-department requirements be met.
Varney Engineering representative Tom Barney told the board the structure is 75 years old and the proposal keeps the footprint but adds a full foundation and a second floor; the rebuild will make the home comply with modern codes and include stormwater measures such as drip edges, gutters and upgraded landscaping. The board unanimously agreed the proposal would not be contrary to public interest and found the project was consistent with the master plan and district character.
Board members ran the variance worksheet for multiple requests, including permission to rebuild 6 feet inside the 25-foot front (right-of-way) setback and to remain 10.5 feet inside the 30-foot shore setback (resulting in about 19 feet to the lake from the rebuilt structure). One motion approving the application included the explicit condition that "fire department concerns as stated on the review sheet be met," which the maker read into the record. Members said the rebuild would improve safety and likely increase surrounding property values.
