Jewish Center seeks 26‑sq‑ft variance to enclose porches; board closes hearing

At 44 Woods Lane, the Jewish Center of the Hamptons asked the zoning board for a minor coverage variance and a special permit to enclose two existing open‑air porches and convert them to classroom and administrative space.

Attorney Linda Margolin explained that the 26‑square‑foot variance results from the board’s counting of a paved walkway as part of coverage; otherwise the use remains a continuation of a longstanding nonconforming religious use on the property. Board members said the enclosure is small and unlikely to affect neighbors or the view from the street. A congregant who said he attends high holiday services on the site described no negative impact from the proposed change.

The board moved, seconded and voted to close the hearing; no final variance determination was recorded in the transcript at the meeting.