Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Variance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission forwards setback relief and defers backing‑out safety question to zoning board
Summary
The commission discussed a two‑part variance for a proposed three‑lot subdivision: it supported cleaning up an existing front‑setback nonconformity and opted to stay silent on a requested variance that would allow cars to back out directly onto Washington Street, leaving safety determination to the Zoning Hearing Board.
The Planning Commission reviewed a two‑part variance tied to a proposed subdivision of an existing single‑family lot into three lots.
Staff explained the first request is relief for an existing nonconforming front setback created by a historic front porch. Commissioners said that request was straightforward: the porch predated the ordinance and a variance would “clean up” the property when it’s subdivided. Several commissioners explicitly supported recommending the front‑setback relief.
The second request asked for a variance to allow parking spaces to back directly onto Washington Street where borough rules generally prohibit backing out onto a right‑of‑way wider than 20 feet because of safety concerns. Commissioners expressed safety reservations, noting that wider streets have faster traffic and backing maneuvers could be hazardous. Members discussed possible mitigations such as signage and requiring owners to back into spots, but questioned the feasibility of policing such conditions.
By consensus the commission agreed to provide a recommendation on the front‑setback variance and to remain silent on the backing‑out variance, leaving the safety judgment to the Zoning Hearing Board and the zoning hearing process.
