Standing in front is Steve Snyder who represented both residential cases presented to the board. Board members Cory Mast, left, Matt Goodnight, Randy Cox and Matt Sandy are shown reviewing the maps and materials for Robert Haymond’s case. Photo by Caleigh Byrer.

By Caleigh Byrer
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE — The Syracuse Board of Zoning Appeals approved two residential cases and made an amendment to the already approved Polywood case at their meeting Thursday, Dec. 15.

In November, Polywood requested an exemption to construct a parking lot in a residential district located on the east side of Maple Street and south of North Street, Syracuse. The exemption was granted under numerous conditions, one of them being the hours of access. In the initial approval, it was stated the parking lot may only be used between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5 p.m.

However, it recently came to the board’s attention that the sewing department shift actually begins at 5 a.m., so Polywood is requesting employees be allowed to access the parking lot between the hours of 4:45 a.m .and 5 p.m. The board had the ability to approve this change or request that Polywood return at the next meeting for a new hearing.

The board concluded that with all of the other stipulations they have put in place, the change in hours of use should not interfere much, if at all, with the concerns expressed by previous remonstrators and moved to approve the change.

Steve Snyder represented Robert Haymond in his petition for an exception for alteration of an existing, nonconforming building including the addition of windows and doors to the lower level and a sun deck with railing, stairs and landing on top of the existing block structure. The building is 0.6 feet from the west property line and 2 feet from the water’s edge. The property is located on the south side of Northshore Drive and northwest of Iris Lane, Syracuse.

Snyder stated there will be no major changes to the structure itself, as it has been deemed stable, but these additions will enhance the aesthetic appeal within the neighborhood. Snyder stated the surrounding neighbors had been notified and did not have any objections; he also provided an email from one of them as assurance.

However, neighbors Susan and Jeffrey Toumey did have some concerns regarding privacy, safety and obstructed view.

Snyder stated there is no right to view law in place here, but they are willing to ensure open railing in place of any solid railing, particularly cable or glass. The board then approved the alterations under the condition that only open railing be used.

Douglas and Karen Stanley, also represented by Snyder, presented a petition to allow a built-in outdoor kitchen to be constructed on a patio that is 24 feet 4 inches from the water’s edge. The property is located on the north side of Front Street and south of John Street, Syracuse. Snyder made the argument that outdoor kitchens are growing in popularity and in this case, it would coordinate well with the overall look of the neighborhood.

There were no remonstrators and the board approved the petition as presented.