Warsaw Board of Zoning Appeals board members Dan Smith and Jeff Johnson.

WARSAW — The Board of Zoning Appeals addressed two variance requests when they assembled for their monthly meeting Monday, Sept. 25.

The first was a request by Jaime Davila who lives at 111 E. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw. Davila asked for a variance to allow a 6’ rear yard setback and to permit greater than the permitted amount of impervious surface coverage in an R-3 Residential Zone.

Davila stated he would like to construct a carport wide enough for two cars behind his house. According to Assistant City Planner Justin Taylor, the lots in this neighborhood are generally small, with size constraints often creating unintended limitations. Taylor stated that additions to homes in this area should be encouraged in order to maintain value in a competitive market. Taylor included a survey of the property as well as a drawing to show what the addition would look like.

Board member Dan Smith moved to approve the request, with board member Jeff Johnson seconding the motion.

The second variance request came from Keith and Cristina Ousley, owners of Heritage Monument Company, Warsaw. The Ousleys requested that a 5′ x 3′ sign be allowed in an R-2 Zoning District.

R-2 Zoning Districts typically do not allow this type of sign. However, it was noted that the Center Street corridor has an overlay district that describes restrictions regarding the physical appearance of home conversions. The intent is clear that properties along Center Street should be allowed to serve as minimally intensive office and retail, provided they retain their residential character. In the past this property has served as an office, with signage being a part of that use.

Board members asked for clarification regarding sign size and placement. Taylor stated that in the opinion of the planning department, this case could be viewed favorably. Board members approved the request.

Other news:

• Minutes for the Aug. 28 meeting were approved.
• The next regular meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 23.