Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
The Norwalk Zoning Board of Appeals continued two variance applications without final votes. JMT Charles 25 LLC's request for an 8.8-foot retaining wall variance at 34 Charles Street was continued to April to allow the applicant to meet with concerned neighbors. Mark Barrett and Jillian Majak's rear setback variance request at 10 Winthrop Avenue was also continued after the board requested the applicants reduce the nonconformity from 10 feet to 12 feet from the rear property line.
Key Decisions (2)
Continuance for Retaining Wall Variance at 34 Charles Street
JMT Charles 25 LLC sought variance to construct retaining wall up to 8.8 feet high (4 feet maximum allowed) for site stabilization for proposed duplex at 34 Charles Street in CD-2 zone and coastal area management overlay. Applicant requested continuance to meet with neighbors who submitted concerns. Board granted continuance to April meeting.
Continuance for Rear Setback Variance at 10 Winthrop Avenue
Mark Barrett and Jillian Majak sought variance for rear setback (15 feet required, 10 feet proposed after revision from original 6.7 feet) to connect existing detached garage to single family residence at 10 Winthrop Avenue in CD-1S zone. Board members indicated they would support 12 feet but not 10 feet. Applicant accepted continuance to revise plans.
Development Activity (2)
Two-Family Dwelling at 34 Charles Street
Proposed new duplex requiring retaining wall up to 8.8 feet for site stabilization on steeply sloped lot. Property is one of three contiguous lots with rear access from right of way off Osborne Avenue.
Garage Addition and Connection at 10 Winthrop Avenue
Proposed expansion of existing detached garage, addition of living space above garage, and two-story addition to connect garage to existing 1928 single family home on corner lot. Revised plans moved garage footprint from 6.7 feet to 10 feet from rear property line. Six letters of support from neighbors submitted.
Market Signals (2)
Housing Demand
Property owners seeking to expand garage capacity and add living space above garages indicates demand for additional residential square footage in established Norwalk neighborhoods.
Sentiment
Board members expressed concern about houses being raised to excessive heights and increasing nonconformities, suggesting stricter scrutiny of variance requests going forward.