Council tables decision on parking-variance request at 407 Cove

The Springtown City Council on Feb. 26 tabled a request by homeowners at 407 Cove to enclose an attached garage and thereby seek a variance from the city's required parking rules.

Britney and Robert, the applicants, told the council the house was built before the current ordinance and that the garage is shorter than county records indicate and houses a hot-water heater, leaving only room for a single vehicle. “I cannot have a hitch in the vehicle and it closes with like a half an inch for the door,” Robert said, explaining why two vehicles will not fit. Staff read two written oppositions from neighbors across the street, who said the conversion would hurt property values and be an eyesore.

Council members reviewed the four statutory criteria for a zoning variance — hardship arising from literal enforcement, non–self-imposition of the condition, no injury to adjacent properties and harmony with ordinance purpose — and questioned whether approving the variance would set a precedent prompting many similar requests. Multiple motions to deny or approve the variance failed for lack of a second; Councilwoman Kelly then moved to table the matter to a date certain. The motion to table passed, and the council set the matter for March 26, 2026. Mayor Mike Kelly reminded the applicants they may not perform work on the garage before the council issues a final decision.

The decision to delay gives the council more time to consider neighbors’ objections, review the county's as-built documentation and, if needed, require the applicants to submit alternative facade plans or conditional approvals that address aesthetic concerns. The City’s zoning board of adjustments will resume consideration at the March meeting.