By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
A zoning variance request is creating discord in a neighborhood based on harmonious design. Earlier this month, neighbors wanting to preserve the uniformity of their development asked that the variance sought by one homeowner be denied.
The variance, requested by Greg Kinder, at 800 Deer Ridge Run, would allow a third bay to be added to his garage in the development located off Sand Ridge Road. The variance was needed since the addition would encroach 2-feet 5-inches into the 10-foot required side yard setback.
The Bowling Green Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to grant the variance, with President Judy Ennis explaining that any dispute with the homeowners’ association is a separate issue.
Tony Buff, the builder of Kinder’s home, said he has been hired to build the additional garage bay. He assured the board that the addition would look uniform. Buff said a few of the Deer Ridge homes were originally constructed with three garage bays.
But Gaylyn Finn, the first resident of Deer Ridge, said homeowners purchased there because of the uniformity.
“We’re trying to continue a very harmonious development,” he said.
Finn explained that the homeowners association has rejected deviations in the past, such as a request to allow windows in a garage door.
Neighbor Fred Bobel read a letter from another resident, Richard Martin, who was unable to attend the zoning meeting.
“My primary objection to this request is the precedent being set for future similar requests in our neighborhood,” the letter stated. “We chose the Deer Ridge Run subdivision because of its uniformity and architectural similarities. The community was well planned with clearly delineated lots and setbacks.”
“To allow a variance permitting this setback encroachment has the potential of creating precedent which could ultimately damage the continuity of the subdivision,” Martin wrote.
Buff said he understands the desire to keep the uniform look of the community. But he said the addition will have the same brick, same style, and same roof line.
But Bobel wasn’t so sure.
“This could change the carefully planned common theme of our homes,” he said.
Zoning board member Chris Ostrowski asked if the owner purchased the home knowing about the restrictions. The residents said yes.
“I feel for the neighbors objecting to the addition,” expecting the HOA rules to be followed, Ostrowski said.
But he also saw the other side of the argument.
“I hate telling someone what they can or cannot do to their own personal property,” Ostrowski said.
Zoning board member Matt Bostdorff said he also appreciates uniformity, but a third vehicle parked in the driveway all the time isn’t exactly harmonious.
The zoning board granted the variance, and said Kinder will now have to get his plan past the homeowners association.
