ZBA grants Stewart’s Shops variance to allow 62% lot coverage at Route 67 site

The Town of Ballston Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 2 approved area variances enabling Stewart’s Shops to redevelop two adjacent parcels at 801 and 809 State/Route 67, granting 62% lot coverage where the zoning code allows 40%. The board also approved a temporary allowance for two uses on the combined lots until the lease/life estate with property owner Lillian Vedder expires.

The board opened a public hearing but heard no members of the public; Town attorney Andrew Clark read the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) factors and the board issued a negative declaration. Applicant representative Molly Russell told the board there had been no changes to the plan since the prior meeting and that Stewart’s had submitted a letter from Vedder’s power of attorney and lease/life estate documentation allowing construction. During discussion, Mr. John Hall asked what would happen if Stewart’s did not pursue the project or sold the property; the board noted it could add limiting language to a final approval. Russell said the house on the property would be removed and, as she put it, "They will not be backing out." The board’s motion, made by Vice Chairman Patrick Whitton and seconded by Steve Merchant, carried with the motion recorded as granting the relief and temporarily permitting two uses until the life estate ends.

The parcels are recorded as SBL 228.-3-55 and 228.-3-23. The board noted it received a negative recommendation from the County Planning Board prior to the vote and recorded approval of the SEQR negative declaration. With no new business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:41 p.m.