Norwalk ZBA approves front‑setback parking variance as ADA accommodation for homeowner with MS
February 20, 2026 | Norwalk City, Fairfield, Connecticut
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The Norwalk Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously on Feb. 19 to approve a variance permitting parking in the front setback at 3 McIntosh Road so the homeowner can convert an existing two‑car garage into at‑grade living space for accessibility.
The matter was presented to the board as application 26‑0219‑01. Tammy, a member of zoning staff, summarized the request and said staff viewed the proposal as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Ben Hanpeeter read a supporting letter from the city’s certified ADA coordinator, Bill Hantuk, who wrote that the applicant had provided medical documentation and that the conversion was a reasonable ADA/Fair Housing Act accommodation.
Applicant Kirk Hogeman described his mobility limitations and why the change is necessary. “I have multiple sclerosis, and I'm not getting better. And stairs are problematic for me,” Hogeman said, explaining the conversion would allow him accessible use of the ground floor.
Board members reviewed the survey and architectural plans, asked how many cars could be accommodated in the driveway and whether proposed interior changes might create an accessory dwelling. Staff said the driveway could accommodate the necessary parking and that the proposal does not include separate utilities or separate exterior access that would constitute an ADU.
The board’s motion to approve the variance was made by Ben Hanpeeter and seconded by Keith Lyon. The vote was recorded as unanimous.
The approval allows the homeowner to proceed with conversion work under the conditions shown in the submitted plans; staff noted standard building‑permit and inspection requirements will still apply. The hearing record includes an ADA coordinator’s letter and no public speakers opposed the request.
The board moved on to other docket items after the vote; the staff said the meeting record and video will be posted to the city’s website and YouTube channel.
The matter was presented to the board as application 26‑0219‑01. Tammy, a member of zoning staff, summarized the request and said staff viewed the proposal as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Ben Hanpeeter read a supporting letter from the city’s certified ADA coordinator, Bill Hantuk, who wrote that the applicant had provided medical documentation and that the conversion was a reasonable ADA/Fair Housing Act accommodation.
Applicant Kirk Hogeman described his mobility limitations and why the change is necessary. “I have multiple sclerosis, and I'm not getting better. And stairs are problematic for me,” Hogeman said, explaining the conversion would allow him accessible use of the ground floor.
Board members reviewed the survey and architectural plans, asked how many cars could be accommodated in the driveway and whether proposed interior changes might create an accessory dwelling. Staff said the driveway could accommodate the necessary parking and that the proposal does not include separate utilities or separate exterior access that would constitute an ADU.
The board’s motion to approve the variance was made by Ben Hanpeeter and seconded by Keith Lyon. The vote was recorded as unanimous.
The approval allows the homeowner to proceed with conversion work under the conditions shown in the submitted plans; staff noted standard building‑permit and inspection requirements will still apply. The hearing record includes an ADA coordinator’s letter and no public speakers opposed the request.
The board moved on to other docket items after the vote; the staff said the meeting record and video will be posted to the city’s website and YouTube channel.
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