Zoning Board Agendas and Minutes

MINUTES OF THE COHOES ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS HELD IN THE COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF COHOES CITY HALL ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2016 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mr. Mark Cotch Mr. Gary Sawyer Ms. Theresa Thibodeau, Chairman Mrs. Joyce Baranski, Vice-Chairman ABSENT: Mr. Justin Gregory Mr. Michael Briggs ALSO PRESENT: Mrs. Melissa Cherubino, Director of Building and Planning CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES FROM SEPTEMBER 28, 2016. Chairman Thibodeau called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm. The Chairman asked the recording secretary to take attendance. Member Cotch moved to approve the minutes of September 28, 2016. Member Sawyer seconded the motion, roll call was taken and the motion passed unanimously. YES NO ABSTAIN Michael Briggs ABSENT Joyce Baranski X Mark Cotch X Gary Sawyer X Theresa Thibodeau X Justin Gregory ABSENT CONSIDERATION OF AN AREA VARIANCE FROM SETBACK REQUIREMENTS FOR A FENCE AT 1 LEXINGTON RD Matt and Heather Pertierra requested an area variance to install a fence on the property line at the corner of Lexington Rd and Sunset Ct. The City Zoning Code restricts installing of fences on corners to 35’ from the point of intersection. However in this instance the City right of way is a minimum of 13’ from the edge of pavement and both residential streets lack significant traffic. Combined these factors allow adequate sight distance for vehicles turning. Member Cotch asked about the fence material and height. Mrs. Pertierra explained that 6’ wood fencing would run parallel to Lexington Rd while 4’ chain link fencing would run parallel to Sunset Ct and close off the side yard at the deck. Mrs. Pertierra explained that the lot lacks a backyard, so fencing the sideyard enables the family to enjoy the space safely. Chairwoman Thibodeau asked about the bushes along the pavement. Mrs. Pertierra explained that the couple planted the 2’ high plants four years ago. Other than the plants, the land between the fence and pavement would remain grass. \\cohoes.local\CoC-Data\Users\mashline-heil\Boards, Commissions, & Agencies\ZBA\ZBA\minutes\ZBA Minutes 2016\ZBA Minutes 9.28.2016.doc As a result, Chairwoman Thibodeau moved to approve the area variance. Member Baranski seconded the motion which passed unanimously. YES NO ABSTAIN Michael Briggs ABSENT Joyce Baranski X Mark Cotch X Gary Sawyer X Theresa Thibodeau X Justin Gregory ABSENT CONSIDERATION OF AN AREA VARIANCE FROM SETBACK REQUIREMENTS FOR A SHED AT 64 MASTEN AVENUE Derrick Van Wie sought permission to install a standard 10X12 shed 3’ from the side and rear property lines. He explained that in order to meet setbacks the shed would sit in the middle of his yard. Member Cotch asked in which direction the roof pitches and the applicant described the water as flowing into his own yard. Member Sawyer asked what properties abut the proposal. Neighbors at 62 Masten Ave submitted a letter in support of the application. West End Park sits behind 64 Masten Avenue. As a result, Member Cotch moved to approve the area variance. Chairwoman Thibodeau seconded the motion which passed unanimously. YES NO ABSTAIN Michael Briggs ABSENT Joyce Baranski X Mark Cotch X Gary Sawyer X Theresa Thibodeau X Justin Gregory ABSENT Chairwoman Thibodeau moved to adjourn at 7:00 PM seconded by Member Cotch. The motion passed unanimously. \\cohoes.local\CoC-Data\Users\mashline-heil\Boards, Commissions, & Agencies\ZBA\ZBA\minutes\ZBA Minutes 2016\ZBA Minutes 9.28.2016.doc