Board OKs setback variance to create indoor loading for resident with disability

The Erie Zoning Hearing Board voted 4–0 Aug. 11 to grant two dimensional variances sought by Sean and Lynette Ferry for 3506 Byrd (Bird) Drive, allowing the homeowners to move their garage forward toward the road so a two-car garage can accommodate a handicap-accessible van and indoor ramping. The applicants cited safety and accessibility problems during winter as the primary reason for the request.

Sean Ferry told the board he and his wife have lived at the home for just over 10 years and that his 430-pound power wheelchair and handicap van require indoor loading during inclement weather. “For 10 years, we’ve been having to be pushed up into my handicap van when it’s raining or snowing,” Ferry said, explaining that tire spin on ramps and icy surfaces have caused uncontrolled movements and put both him and his wife at risk. He requested moving 10 feet toward Byrd Drive—about 5 feet beyond what the block-average/§205.2 rule would otherwise allow—so the existing one-car garage can become a two-car garage that provides indoor, safer loading.

Lynette Ferry described the physical burden of assisting her husband and said the change would reduce strain and the risk of slips. The board reviewed survey drawings and staff noted a roughly 18.5-foot distance to the property line and that four neighbors submitted letters or emails in support (Kathleen and Mark Krzyak; Deb and Dennis Christopher; Alan/Kirk Lavin). After board questions and staff confirmations, Amy read the roll call: Mister Seibold, Mister Johnson, Doctor Matthews and Miss King voted yes, and the board directed applicants to proceed with building-permit steps.

The approval authorizes only the variances granted; any work still requires compliance with permitting and building-code inspections.