Bedford Development News
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Zoning Board Approves Variance for Setback Corrections and Garage Conversion at 33 North Street
The Zoning Board of Appeals considered an application for a variance for a property at 33 North Street. The applicant, Mark Otto, sought to correct a boundary line encroachment by moving a garage wall inward by one foot, thereby moving it entirely onto his property. This move would also allow the garage space to be converted into livable space. Additionally, a shed on the property, also found to be encroaching, would be relocated to be within proper setbacks. The applicant aims to rectify existing non-conformities and bring structures into full compliance. The board discussed the implications of converting a garage to livable space, potential impacts on neighboring properties, and the historical non-conforming status of the structures. The applicant committed to moving the garage wall by one foot and correcting the shed's location. The board approved the application with conditions, including a foundation survey, ensuring proper roof runoff away from the property line, obtaining a building permit within one year, submitting an as-built survey, ensuring no windows face the property line on the garage's north side, using fire-rated walls, and relocating the shed to be code compliant. The dormer previously shown on plans was noted as not being part of the work.
Zoning Board Approves Variance for Residential Elevator Addition
The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance for an addition to a non-conforming residence at 6 Terrace Heights, allowing for the installation of a residential elevator. The house, built between 1913-1916, has a narrow lot and pre-existing non-conformities. The proposed elevator addition, located on the east side of the building, results in a side yard setback of 12.8 feet (where 20 feet is required) and a combined side yard setback of 16.8 feet (where 35 feet is required). This addition is noted as being less encroaching than existing non-conformities. The applicant, represented by architect Craig Elli, stated the addition will not increase building coverage or lot coverage and that numerous neighbors have expressed support. The approval is subject to conditions including obtaining a building permit within one year, submitting an updated as-built survey, and ensuring the elevator addition is completed according to the approved plans dated December 8, 2023. The purpose of the elevator is to allow the elderly homeowners to continue living in their home.
Zoning Board Grants Parking Variance for Kona Firehouse Restaurant
The Zoning Board of Appeals considered a variance request for 156 Katonah Avenue (Kona Firehouse, LLC) due to a parking deficiency. The applicant seeks to convert the first-floor retail space to a restaurant and retain office space on the second floor. The total required parking is 21 spaces (15 for the restaurant, 6 for offices), but only 9 onsite spaces will be provided, resulting in a deficiency of 12 spaces. This variance is similar to one granted in June 2020, which had also expired. The applicant plans to lease parking spaces from the town and potentially from neighboring businesses. The restaurant will accommodate up to 72 seats on the first floor, with no current plans to utilize the rooftop. The board mirrored the previous resolution, approving the variance with conditions: a total of 12 offsite parking spaces must be secured through written documentation (permit, lease, etc.), evidence of parking permits and traffic circulation must be provided to the zoning board after planning board approval, and the applicant must obtain a building permit and complete construction. The resolution also notes the applicant's acknowledgment that the alteration is not viable without connecting to the town sewer and requires planning board site plan approval.
Zoning Board Approves Variance for Building Shift
The Zoning Board of Appeals heard a request for a variance to move a building 12 inches. The applicant, represented by Jerry Tortorella of Erman, Torella & Winter, explained that the building would be shifted 12 feet to the west-southwest to avoid disturbing a mature tree and its root system. A pergola on the building may be removed. The change does not affect the building's footprint but is a modification to the site plan reviewed previously. The variance was approved, contingent upon a plan dated October 18, 2023, reflecting the shift, and a certified survey upon project completion. Concerns were raised about accommodating a new generator and its placement, but it was determined not to be part of the current application before the board. The motion to accept the change based on the new plan date was moved and approved.
Zoning Board Approves Special Use Permit Amendment for Bedford Golf and Tennis Club Expansion
The Zoning Board of Appeals considered an amendment to a special use permit for the Bedford Golf and Tennis Club. The applicant proposed expanding the existing parking lot by adding 33 spaces, constructing three new clay tennis courts, removing two existing courts, and building a new basketball court and play area. The expansion aims to better accommodate club membership and programs. The landscaping plan includes planting trees for screening and managing stormwater with a bio-retention basin. A key discussion point involved the lighting from existing paddle tennis courts, with concerns raised about its intensity and color. While the board acknowledged the issue, it was decided that the building department would investigate compliance with current lighting codes. The special permit amendment was approved with conditions: modifications to landscaping for screening of the parking area and walkway, use of mitigation plantings to address paddle tennis court lighting, adherence to the approved site plan dated November 21, 2023, and return to the planning board for final site plan approval. The lighting issue regarding paddle tennis courts will be further investigated by the building department.
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The Bedford News archive
June 17, 2026 Historic Building Preservation Commission Meeting Agenda
Town Board Meeting 6-16-2026
Town Board Meeting 6-16-2026
June 16, 2026 Town Board Meeting Agenda
Planning Board Meeting 6-8-2026
Planning Board Meeting 6-8-2026
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