Kenilworth ZBA Continues Variance Request for 167 Abingdon Ave; Sunroom Hardship Questioned

The Kenilworth Zoning Board of Appeals on June 8, 2026 agreed to continue a request for variances at 167 Abingdon Ave to the board's July 13, 2026 meeting so staff can provide prior minutes and drawings related to a 2005 ZBA case for the property. Village Planner Andrew Dunham described the application as requests for additional floor area and increased building coverage to accommodate a new sunroom, an expanded detached garage and reduced impervious surface.

Applicant Charlie Waddell, who identified himself as the owner, said he and his wife have four children and two large cars that do not both fit in the existing garage. Architect Keith Labutta noted the home is non-conforming and said the design team sought modest changes; on the size of the proposed sunroom Labutta said, "it would be 144 feet." Several members questioned whether the sunroom met the hardship standard required for a variance. Member Jenelle Chalmers pressed for a hardship justification for the sunroom; Mr. Waddell acknowledged the sunroom "is not a hardship, but a reflection of his current family state."

Members were split on relief scope. Member Mark Hinkamp said he "did not see the hardship" for the sunroom but could support approval for either the sunroom or the garage; Members Katherine Peterson, Emily Tzur and Jenelle Chalmers expressed more comfort approving the garage expansion only. Member Tim Quigley said he supported both requests as a way to modernize the home, and Chair Eamon Murphy noted that the property's existing non-conforming status complicated the review and suggested reductions to the garage footprint as a compromise.

Following a brief sidebar, the applicant requested continuance and the board agreed. Staff was asked to supply minutes and drawings from the 2005 ZBA case in advance of the July 13, 2026 meeting so members can evaluate precedent and prior determinations before acting on the applicant's request.