12 Woodside St. Statement of GroundsWRITTEN STATEMENT
The Locus is comprised of a pre-existing nonconforming lot (undersized for the R2
District) and a pre-existing nonconforming single family home (does not meet any setback
requirements). The owner is proposing a minor expansion to the existing front porch to allow
for a roof to be placed over the entirety of the front steps to prevent them from icing over in
the winter. The entire proposed porch would be enclosed. As a result, the proposed porch will
penetrate the front yard setback further, but will not go beyond the existing staircase. As such,
a special permit to alter/expand a nonconforming structure is required.
Although there will be a minor increase to the nonconforming nature of the existing
home, the increase will not be more detrimental to the neighborhood then what presently
exists. The design of the porch will match the character of the house and of the neighborhood.
Further, numerous homes in the neighborhood have structures which extend up to or close to
the sidewalk boundary.
The Board may grant this special permit because no adverse effects from the proposed
project (if any even occur) will outweigh the beneficial impact on the neighborhood or the City.
Specifically:
1. The proposed project will create more usable space and a safer means of ingress and
egress for the owner.
2. There will be no appreciable change to traffic flow;
3. There are adequate utilities and other public services servicing the Locus;
4. The proposed project will match the current character of the house and will continue to
fit in with the surrounding residential neighborhood;
5. There will be no appreciable change to the natural environment beyond the minor
expansion to the porch; and
6. The proposed project will create an increase in value, likely leading to increased tax
revenue for the City.