11-15-06 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of the La Porte Zoning Board of Adjustment Minutes

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Staff Report January 25, 2007 Special Exception Request #SE 06-007 ReQuested by: Vincent Heims ReQuested for: Lot 12 & E. lIz of Lot 11; Oak Grove Block, Bayshore Park Addition & Tract 7; Abstract No. 35, J. Hunter Survey, La Porte, Harris County, TX. Location: 941 Oak Grove Avenue ZOniDl!: Low Density Residential (R-l) and Mid Density Residential (R-2) Back2round: The property in question is located within two zoning classifications. The portion of land located within the Oak Grove Block is zoned Low Density Residential (R-l) while the tract located in the J. Hunter Survey is zoned as Mid Density Residential (R-2). The construction of a single-family dwelling is a "permitted" use in each zone. The Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBOA) may recall previously granting at the January 22,2004, meeting, a Special Exception (SE#04-001) for Tract 7, Abstract No. 35, Johnson Hunter Survey, for the purpose of constructing a single-family dwelling with a reduced setback from 25' to 10'. However, after reviewing the Board's decision, the applicant found that it would be impossible to build a home and the deck as desired. Subsequently, the property was sold to the current owner. The current owner is asking the Board to consider granting a Special Exception for the entire property as this is a difficult property to work with given the utility easements and high bank in the rear yard. The applicant seeks a reduction in the standard front yard setback requirement in order to construct a single-family dwelling and detached garage. Unfortunately, due to the designated conservation area and narrow depth of the property, the front yard setback reduction previously granted is insufficient for construction of a home and detached garage. The proposed house will be over 1,000 sq. ft. in floor area and 10' front setback along Bayshore Drive and Oak Grove Avenue as well. The house dimensions are 35'x 60' with a detached garage and 5' side yard setback (see plot plan). While considering this request, the Board should note they are being asked to consider the entire property to make the proposed project "viable" .