Letter of Statement of Hardship (1)City of Salem
Zoning Board of Appeals
93 Washington Street Salem,MA 01970
Letter of Statement of Hardship:
Ramon Hidalgo
107 Mason Street Salem,MA 01970
PARCEL ID#:16-0361-0
Dear Planning &Zoning Members,
I am writing to formally request a variance for the property located at 107 Mason St.The
purpose of this variance is to seek relief from the existing requirement for the rear yard setback
on this nonconforming dwelling.The specific alteration in question involves the addition of a
staircase that aligns with the surrounding Mason Street homes'character and would significantly
enhance life safety by creating a secure second means of egress.
A.Special Conditions and Circumstances:
The unique conditions of this property,particularly its shape and narrowness,along with the
imposed rear setback of 30 ft.,necessitate our request for a variance.We propose a reduction
in the required rear setback to 17 ft.from the current requirement of 30 ft.The issuance of this
variance would not affect other lands,buildings,and structures within the same district as our
property backs onto a forested hill,providing a natural buffer that preserves the aesthetic
harmony and unobstructed view of the surrounding area.
B.Enforcement of the Ordinance:
The enforcement of the Ordinance,in this case,would entail significant hardship relating to the
safety of the property owner and tenants.As stipulated in 780 CMR 1001.0,two means of
egress are required for this dwelling.The addition of the proposed staircase would address this
requirement,bringing the property into compliance and averting violation of CMR 780 1028.1.
C.Desirable Relief without Detriment to the Public Good:
The approval of this variance would not lead to substantial detriment to the public good,nor
would it invalidate or substantially deviate from the intent or purpose of the district's ordinance.
The proposed staircase will blend seamlessly with the surrounding architecture,aligning with
Salem's unique aesthetic and preserving the spirit of our community.
I look forward to your favorable response and assure you of my commitment to uphold the
architectural integrity and safety standards of our community.
Thank you for your consideration,
Sincerely,
Ramon Hidalgo
Property owner