Board of Adjustment approves variance to expand unattached garage at 1025 North Park

The City of Watertown Board of Adjustment on a 6-0 vote approved a variance to allow an expansion of an unattached garage at 1025 North Park.

Staff told the board the existing garage is 467 square feet; the applicants proposed a 348-square-foot addition for a total of roughly 836 square feet, well under the maximum allowable 1,260 square feet. Staff noted the addition would extend west toward a 6-foot utility easement, that drainage and roof runoff must be contained on the property, and that the project would create a tandem-style unattached garage.

The applicant, Jamie Kikuchi of 1025 North Park, said the expansion was intended to provide additional interior space because the current garage is narrow and constraints on the lot prevent expanding north or toward the house. "What we're trying to do is . . . increase a little bit of space inside of the garage," Kikuchi said.

Board member Case urged findings to support approval, saying the addition does not increase the degree of encroachment on the yard requirement and that "there was no neighbor objection to it." Case also noted that the inability to park in front of the house on that side of the street makes the property somewhat unique, a factor the board cited in its consideration.

After discussion, the board moved, seconded, and voted by roll call; Brandy recorded the tally as six yes and zero no. The board adopted the variance.

The approval includes a condition that all drainage, downspouts and eaves be accommodated on the applicant's property and that the addition remain in line with the existing garage footprint. The board closed the public hearing before voting.