The Walworth Zoning Board of Appeals approved one area variance and set the stage for a revised application to return next month during a brief meeting Monday night.
Board members unanimously approved a request from Sean and Trudy Smith of 1820 Sherburne Road to construct a barn closer to a property line than normally permitted under town zoning regulations. The applicants sought relief from a 15-foot side-yard setback requirement to allow construction of a utility barn approximately five feet from the property line.
During the public hearing, Sean Smith told the board the location was chosen to avoid drainage issues and reduce concerns about snow shedding from the building’s roof onto vehicles. Board members discussed the size of the lot, existing drainage patterns and the structure’s intended use for personal storage and workshop space. While the board determined the variance request was substantial, members concluded there was no practical alternative location and found the project would not negatively affect the neighborhood’s character or create environmental concerns. The variance was approved without conditions.
The board also revisited an application from Ryan and Angela May of 641 Plank Road, who had previously sought a side-yard setback variance for a home addition. After discussions with their builder, the applicants presented a new concept that would move the proposed addition to the front of the house rather than the side.
Board members expressed support for the revised concept, saying it represented a significantly smaller zoning request and addressed concerns raised during earlier discussions. However, members and the town attorney agreed the revised proposal would require a new application and public hearing because it involved a different setback requirement and a substantially different project than the one originally advertised.
Rather than continue pursuing the original application, the applicants agreed to withdraw it and submit a new proposal for consideration at a future meeting. Town officials said the revised application could potentially return to the board as early as July, depending on review timelines and filing deadlines.
Following the discussions, the board adjourned the meeting.
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