Board OKs Portela retaining wall variance to stabilize eroding Port Republic backyard

The Calvert County Board of Appeals voted Oct. 1 to approve a critical-area variance for Rafael and Carmen Portela to build an engineered retaining wall at 4006 South Shore Drive in Port Republic to stabilize ongoing erosion.

The Portelas asked the board for a critical-area variance for approximately 1,020 square feet of steep-slope impact (transcribed as "10 20" in the record), a reduction of the buffer setback from 10 feet to 0, and a reduction of a side setback to construct a roughly 96-linear-foot retaining wall with heights ranging from about 8 to 10 feet in places. Carmen Portela said the property's existing wooden retaining wall had deteriorated and that erosion had created a depression and an ongoing safety concern: "Without appropriate intervention, we are concerned that the erosion will continue to progress toward the house and could eventually compromise the safety of the property, our home, and our family," she told the board.

Applicants presented photos, an engineer's design, and a mitigation planting plan calling for native species. The board questioned construction timing, erosion controls and the engineer's involvement; applicants confirmed that a structural engineer prepared the design and that erosion and sediment controls and silt fencing will be in place during construction. In its findings the board concluded the variance addressed a site-specific safety issue, that appropriate construction and environmental protections will protect the public interest, and that the relief requested is the minimum necessary. The motion to grant the variance was approved, subject to county permitting and inspection.