57 Memorial Dr. Statement_of_Grounds (1) Statement of Grounds
57 Memorial Drive
The applicant, Justin Mattera, is the owner of the property at 57 Memorial Drive. The property
consists of a small single-family home located in the R-1 zoning district. Presently, the building
does not conform to the 30-foot rear setback requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, making it a
legally non-conforming structure.
The petitioner is proposing to enlarge the existing home to accommodate the needs of his family.
Specifically, the plans are to expand the existing second story of the building and construct an
addition on one side. In addition, the existing front porch will be enclosed, a new porch
constructed, and a deck and pool will be included in the improvements. The proposed
expansion of the house will increase the non-conformity with the rear setback and create a new
non-conformity on one side of the property. These changes to this non-conforming building are
allowed by Special Permit under Section 3.3.3 of the Zoning Ordinance upon a finding by the
Board of Appeals that the proposed enlargement of the house is not substantially more
detrimental to the neighborhood than the existing conditions.
The petitioner requests that the Board make such a finding based on the following grounds:
1. The expansion of this very small home will make it suitable for family housing which is
much needed in the community and will allow the petitioner's family to continue to
reside in Salem.
2. The property will continue to be used as a single-family so there will be no impact on
traffic or parking.
3. Existing utilities are adequate to serve the property.
4. Many of the homes in the neighborhood have been enlarged so the proposed changes will
not be out of character with the neighborhood.
5. The improvements to the property include enhancements to the exterior yard area which
will have a positive impact on the natural environment.
6. The assessed value of the property will increase significantly as a result of the
improvements resulting in greater tax revenue for the City. It will also have a positive
impact on the value of other neighboring properties.