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�OARD OF ADJUSTMENT
PUBLIC HEARING
MEETING MINUTES
FEBRUARY 25, 2002
I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
The Village of Tequesta Board of Adjustment held a regularly scheduled
Public Hearing at the Tequesta Recreation Center, 399 Seabrook Road,
Tequesta, Florida, on Monday, Februa.ry 25, 2002. The meeting was called t�
order at 7:30 P.M. by Chair Jim Humpage. A roll call was t�,ken.
Boardmembers present were: Chair James Huxnpage, Jon Newman, Steve
Pullon, Vi Laamanen, and Alternate Paul Brienzae Also in attendance vvas
Village Attomey John C. Randolph, and Director of Community
Development 3eff Newell. Vice Chair David Owens was absent from the
meeting.
II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Boardmember Laaananen moved that the Agenda be approved as
submitted. Boardmember Newman seconded the motion, which carried
by unanimous 5-0 vote. The mot�on was therefore passed and adopted
and the Agenda was approved as submitted.
III. REORGANIZATION OF THE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
Boardmember Pullon made a motion to leave all positions just as
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Board of Adjustment Meetin� Mixi�tes
�e�TU�I'� 25 2002
�agC 2
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they are with Mr. Humpage as Chair, Mr. Owens as Vice Chair, and
Mr. Newell as Clerk of the Board. Mr. Newman seconded the mot�on,
whicl� car�ed by unanimous 5-0 vote.
Chair Hurnpage accepted the pos�tion as Ch�ir, and noted that if Mr. Ovvens
had a problena with serving h� co�ld bring it up at the next me�ting, and that
1VIr, Newell probably clid not have a. �hoice since it was a p�°t of his job,
IV. APPROVAL �F PItEVIOUS 1VIEETING MIIOTIJTES
Boardmem�►er Laamanen mo��ed that the minut�s for the meet�ng of
October 15, 2001 lbe approved as subffiitted. �oardmember �rienza
seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous 5-0 vote. The motion
was therefore pass�d and adoptecl and the minutes were approved a�
subm�ttede
V. I�TEW �USINESS
1. A�n applacation from Carol and Larry Wright, owners of the property
located at 11 DeWitt Flace, Lots 2 and 3, Noit Geda�h� Subdivision
and Lot 1, Noit Gedacht Subdivision, requesting a va�-%�nce to the
terms of the Official Coffipreh�ensive Zoning tJrdinanc� of the Village
of Tequesta, Ordinance No. 355, as amend�d, Section X,
5upplemental Re�ulations Apptying to a Specific, to Several or to All
Dastricts, Subsect�on (A), Gen�ral I'rovisions, Paragraph (1)(c), Walls
and Fences, to allow tbe construct�on of 100 foot of l�ee wall with
wrought iron fence, lighted entry columns and one sev�n (°7� foot high
el�ctrically operated access gate loca�ed approxianately 18' uaside the
front prope� I�ne, in lieu of no wall or fence being permitt�d to
��tend fo�vard of the building fr�nt on any lot or parcel, as r�quired
by the Zoning Ordi�ancea
�oard of Adj�s#�n�n�t Meeting Mi�utes
Felbrua� 25, �002
Pag� �
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A. Swe�ring-�n of Witnesses, if ltequired
Clerk of the �oard Jeff Ne�ell swore in all those intending to
sp�ak.
B. �isclosure of Ea�-�'�rte Communicahons
�. poll of the Boardmembers inclicated that Chair H�page,
�oardmember Pu11on, a.nd Boaxdmemb�r Brienza had �sited the
site but spoken to no on�o B�ardmemb�r Laaman� had visited t11e
site a.rid spoke v�th both La.rry �d Carol VVa��ht
C. T'eshanony of Witnesses and Cross Examinat�on, �f any
Larry �V�i�ht expl�ined he and his wife were askin� for r�lief fr�m
the cod� regardang walls arid f�nces to put a gated entrance t� thei�
pr�perty a�d relief fxarn the 6' fence height limit since in one gaxt
their fence exceeded �' . N�r. Wri�ht clarified that their r�quest
was for a gat� loca�i�n 11 feet u�side the property line, NIr. Wright
reviewed the justification for the variance criteria which has be�n
attached to and made a part of �these minutes. 1VIr. Wri�ht
e�cplained that th�ir home had be�n robbed and �hey wished to
ir��tall a�ate with lights and a fence to limit access and deter e��y.
1VI�re Wright prc�vid�d photogr�phs of an access point to the riv�r
next to �lieir h�n�e which was us�d by t�ie public, and photos of
other p�°operties where similar variances had b�era �ranted.
Clerk of the �oard Newell read into the re�cord a letter fro� James
and Joy Sheridan with six signatures attached, being �ritr,hin tl��
300' of notification.:
Dear Sir or Madam:
Board �f Adjustment Meetin� Miriut�s
February 25, 2002
1'age 4
� mewe w oosw��� sos�rmsrr� wuY�a w r sm ss m p
We have receiv�d no4�ce of the variance request �iled by Carol and
Larry VVright for the prop�erty located at 11 DeWitt Pl�.ce. V�e
wish to notify you of our objection to this request for the fvllowi�g
�easons. The Hoineow�ers Associations of both Shady Lane and
Bayvi��v T�rrac� border the suble�t property c�n t�vvo sides. Oux
neighborhoods are open with no front yard fences or hedges to
close off individual homes, If the Wrights are allowed to build a
wall with gated entrance it will effectively create a compound,
�rhich we do not fe�l belongs in our neighborhood. By allowing
one home to construct such a barrieade, it sets a precedence for
otl�ers to r�qu�st the same variance, thereby changing tlae look and
feel of �ur small coannrr��,r.a�ity. Additionally, the �Nright �rop�rty is
located on a larg� riverfi°ont lot �vhich borders a co�on �ea
owned by the Homeowners Associations. There is curr�ntly a
hedge planted along the sidewalk leading to the waters edge,
s�parating th� Wright's property from the cornrnon area. Th�
proposed vvall will abut th� hedge, lirniiting the water view to
residents of the neighborhood as they walk our str�ets, whi�h many
people do thr°oughout the day ar�d early even�rig. VVe enjoy the
openness of Tequesta and the friendly atmosphere afforded us by
being able to see our neighbor� and say hello. Plea�se con�ider oug°
object�on when making your d�cisi�n regard�g this request.
Sincerely,
Joy at�d Jim Sheridan
Jear�ie Marisfield, 19 Shady Lane
Ian Brown, 15 Shady Lane
Charlie, 15 Shady Lane
Julie VValsh, 12 Shady La�e
gZob Nissenbaum, 19 Bayview Road
I,ois �ook, 31 �a�ie�v IZoad
Bo�x°d of �ld�ustrr�ent 1Vleetin� 1Vlinutes
FEbrtlal'� '�J �.'OO2
p��e �
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Mr. �rienza quest�oned who owtied the adjacent lots. 1VIr°e Wright
explained that all three lots were owned by him, and clarified for
Chaa�° Hwnpage that they had no plans to subdivide the property
but i� the future it was p�ssible lots might have to b� �old. �illage
Attoa�ey Randolph advised you ca:n't have an accessory use on �.
lot where you don't have a primary use, so in the ev�nt the Boa�°d
passed this and allowed it to be constru�t�d, th�y would requir� a
unity of title as a condation. Chair Hurnpa�e asked if that vvould
meari th� v�rall would hav� to be removed if the prope�ty had to be
subdivided, to which Attomey Ramdolph responded the property
had already been subdiv�ded—that it vvas the I�oit Gedacht
Subdivision, but the a�plicant had chosen to use a11 three lots, and
if tlley gave the Village a unity of title the Iand would remain
un�fied unless and until they decided to s�ll, in whieh case they
would have to remove the �onstruction. ldir. Wright advised the
Village had a u��ty of t�tle on lots 2 a�d 3 a:r�d they had r�o
objection to providing a u�it� of title. Chair Hurxipage noted the
vvall vvould be 11' onto the property lin� and asked how far it
would be from the sidewallc, to vvhich Ndr. Wri�.ht responded it
wou�d be 11' from the sidewalk and it would be behind �e exist�g
fi�°e hydrant. lO�Ii°. New�ll �o�nrnented there mu�� be at lea�t 5' clear
around the hydrant. Mr. Wright indicated th� hyd�°a�t was S' from
the edge of the sidew�l.lko Boardm�mber Laamanen �ot�d it was a
very tight clistance around the fire hydrant and asked if the
appli�ant would be willixig to mov� tlxe fence back 2' . 1Vlr. Wr��at
agreed to move the fenc� back 2' rnore and e.�plained th�t the
architect had su�gested the 11' setb�.ck. Chair �Iu�page e�pressed
concer� if he subdivid�d and sold tl,e property whether the
applicant would object to removing the wall. 1\�Ii°. Wright i�clica.ted
he �vould hav� no problem with that. My°. Newe11 ad�s�d tliat the
application whach was sub��tted had sho�n 18' a�d not 11'
setbacl�. Cha.u° �Itun.page cainmented then the f�re hydrant vvas not
�n issuea The Board�nembers indicated their docurn.ents a11 sho�ed
11' . M�°. N�well expla�ed that he was looking at the survey that
Board of Adjustment Meeting Minutes
February 25, 2002
Pa�e 6
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was subriiit�ed. NIr. V6j�ght cornmented the survey with the red
lirae that Mr. Newell wa� looking a.t was m�rely an attempt to show
in general where that wa11 would be, and he was relying on the 11',
whlch he had agreed to move back 2' additional fe�t, makking it
13' .
Boardmember Laamanen com�ented that she vvas well known as
having voted against �y f�nce or wa11 appli�cations but iri this case
she felt it was different. All the other properties had been side by
side with setbacks appr��mately the same distances.
Boardmeniber Laamanen noted tllls one was different becau�� it
�vas 150' off the road and in an insecure position a�ad this �as a
unique situation. Cha�r Humpage asked how polic� or pararnedics
would gain access through th� gate. Mr. Wright explair�ed that �
code could be provided to em�rg�ncy p�rsonnel. The Village
Attorney indicated h� kaiew that was done in oth�r communities.
Chair H�page suminaaized the fence v�or.�ld be set back 13' and
the unity of title had been agreed upon. Attomey Randolph
advised that two variances were need�d--�ne for the location of
the vvall and one for the hei�ht of the gate, and any motion must
include that it would be subject to receiving a unity of title from tl�e
applicant and if de-unified that the �ate and wall wou.ld be
remov�d.
D. Finding of Fact �as�d oa Compet�nt Substantial Evidence
MOTIONo
�
Boardmember lLaamanen made a mot�on to approve the
r�quest for a gate at 7' height aa�d for locat�on of wall p�vided
that the setback line is 13' beyond the �idew�lk area, sulbject to
rec�eipt of � unity of t�tl� vvhich would require the three
properti�s to be uni�ied, and in the ev�nt lot 2 vvas ev�r sold off
froa� the other properties the gate and wall e�vould be removed.
Board of Adjustmen.t 1Vleeting M�.u�tes
February 25, 200�
Page �
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Boa�°dmer�ber Br°ienza seconded the motiao, whic� �arried by
4-1 vote, with �oardmember 1'ullon opposed.
2. An applicat�on from Mar°ina 1'ikas, o�vner of the property located �t
364 Church Road, Lot 5, Block 32, Jupiter in the Fines Sec. B
Subdivision, request�n� a variance to the terms of the Official
Conzp�ehensive Zon�ng Qrciinance of the Village of Tequesta,
Ordinance No. 355, as amended, Section X, Supplemental
Regulat�ons Applying to a Specific, To Several or to all Districts,
Subsection (A), �eneral Pxovisions, (8) Floor elevat�on� above sea
level; to allo�v an �adsting cover�d porch to be enclosed to living area
to match the exis�ing hous� floor elevation of 7.3' MSL, in lieu of all
new construction, additions, and substantial improvements to �xisting
stA°uctures being 8.5' MSL or 1g" ab�ve tbe crown of th� road, cul-
de-sac or highwa� or meet the requirements of Section XV, Flood
Hazard Areas, whichever is more string�nte
t�. S�vearing-In of Witnesses, if Requgred
Clerk of the �oard Jeff N��vell swor� an a11 those int�nding t�
speak.
B. D�sclosuxe of Ex-P'arte Co�nanuni�at�ons
A poll of the Boardinembers indicated that Cha�r Hu�npage,
Boaxdnlember i'i.illon, Boardmember Laamaxien, and Boardmerriiber
Brie�za ha,d visited the site and spok�n to no one. Boarci�neanber
Nev��ar� reported he had had no exparte communication,
C. Testimony of Witnesses anci Cro�s Examina�ion, af any
1'�Iarii�a Pikas testif�ed that she li��d at 364 Church Road and was
trying to level off the floor of the enclosed back roorn �ven �rith th�
rest ofth� house since she w�s �er�aoviai� an inside vva�. Ms. Pil�as
Boa�rd of Adju�trnexrt Meetin� 1�'Iin�.ttes
Februaay 2�, 2oc�2
Pa�e �
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commented she understood tha.t 1f she did not r�ceive this variance
that she would have to rais� the floor level of that room wh�ch
would create a safety hazard within the hou�e. �oardmember
I�Te�nan commented t�s was a typical proble�n. seen before by the
�oa�d and he s�aw no problem and would vote in favor so long as a
hold harmless agreement was signed bg� th� appli�ant.
MQTION
Boardmember Newman made a mot�on to approve the
variance appIicat��a� from Marina Pikas based on a hold
harmless agreement being executed to remove liability from
the Village. Board�ember Laamanen se�onded the mot�on,
wh�ch earri�d by unani�ous 5�0 vote.
Chair �Iumpage noted that all applicants �ust complete the
paperwork and get their pern�it within six n�ontl�s �r would b�
required to go through the process again.
3m An applicat�on fro�n Mr. And Mrs. Charles lvi�lson, a�vners of the
property Ioc�t�d at 1897� Point Drive, Property Control No 60-42�
40-36-00-003-0063, requesting � variance to the terms of the Offi�ial
�omprehensive Zoning Ordinance of the V�llage of Tequesta,
()rdinance No. 355, as a�end�d, Sect�on X, Supple�ental
Regulations Applying to a Specif c, to Several or to All Dxstricts,
subsect�on (A), CTen�ral Pruvi�ions, Paragraph (1)(c), Walis and
Fen�es, to allow the construc�ion of a driveway en�ranc�e feature
consis�ng of two 30" long, 4' x 6' high curded walls vvith coluffims
located approximately ten feet �oside the front prop�rty lane, in lieu
of no wall or fence being p�rmitted to extend forward of the building
front on any lot or par�el, as xequired by the Zonin� Ordina�nc�.
A. Sw�earing-In of Witnesses, if itequared
�lexk of the Board Jeff l�edvell swore in all tl�ase intendiri� to
�oarcl of ,Adjustment 1Vleet�an,g Minutes
February �,�, 2002
Page 9
_____________�__________---__�____m
spe�.k.
B. Disclosure of Ex�Parte Communications
.A poll of the Boardinembers indicat�d that Chair Humpage,
Boardme�nnber Pullon, Boarchnember I,aa�nanen, �nd Boardmember
Brienza had visited the site and spoken to no on�. Boardmember
New�an reported he ha� driven by the site and had sp�ken to no
o�e.
C. Testiruony of Wi�n�sse� and Cros� Exa�rniaation, if aa�y
l�°. Chuck Nelson, 1897� l�oint Drive, explained that the request
was for construction of a wa11 that vv�.s part of the pr�sentat�on
entra,�ce for theu° homee Mr. l�Telson apologized for the
circumstances of the applicati�n, 1!/Ir.lVevrrell explain�d when 1�Ir°.
N�lsc�n was applying for a c�rt°af'icate of occupancy for his new
residence, the D�partment of Communiity Development noticed the
survey contained stn�ctures for which he would ne�d a variance.
lalx�. Nelson �ndicated this had not been don� knowirigly, �rl�ich I�°.
IoTe�ell stated �vas unde�stood. 1VI�°. Nelson advised they had
stc►pped const�°u.ction immecliately upon leanzing a variance would
b� n��ded. 1VIr. Nelson explained he vvas asking for a partial w�l
and had not yet decided whether to have a��te. Mr. Nelson stated
he need�d this type of entra�ce pres�ntatf on to hold the value of the
home, and �as requesting a low vvall with a lot of vegetation to be
in harmony w�� the surrounding area. 1VIr. Newell nc�ted it was
duria�g reviewr of the final survey t�iat this was notBCed. 1Vi�°. Nelso�
coYnmented this wa� part of the retaining wa11 applicat�on and tha�
permit had been approved. Boardxnember Newman asked if the
Board �as votnn� on a wall with or without a gate, to which Mr.
I�elson responded he had no plans for a�at� but would like that
option l�ft op�n. Followin� discussion, Mr. Nelson asked that the
Boa�d consider th� vval� without a gate.
�oard of Adjustment Meetin� Minutes
Febru�ry 25, 2002
Page zo
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Mr. leTelson confirmed his home was tvvo homes south of 1�9ir°.
Ciilbert and one �iouse south of Mr. and l�Irs. Ja�obs�n, and next
door to Peg�y Verhoeven. Pe�gy Verh��ven asked if lOilr,
Nelson's home was completed, and commented the letter cam1e
after one part �f it was already in, w�u�h had been explained
tonight. It was confirmed that the drawing shawed the way it
would be which was what was there no�v. Mrs. Verhoeven sta�ed
she thought it was very �ce. 1VIr°s. Verhoeven stated her main
cc�ncern vvas the property line and whether there was any footage
betw�en property 11nes. Mr. New�ll �xplained tli� hedges vvere
iris�ide Mre Nel�on's property line and the retaining wall was on his
property and the hedge was on his property. 1\/Irs. Verhoeven was
concerned with future sale of property and h�r cQncern was not the
wa.11. Chair Hu.mpage comm�ented this had been reseai°ched on
ariother piece of propert.y just north of this and he h�.d n� problegn
with the variance u�der the same condition�, th� depth of the
prop�rty was always a concern a�d tlus was more of an aesthet�c
type of variat�ce. �oardmember Laamanen commented she had
voted against a numb�r of tliese requests during t�e past year and it
was definitely an erosion of th� Villa�e's ordin�nces.
Boardm�mber Laaman�n comm�nted if one �vas allow�d ot�ers
would want it. Boardme�nber Laa�anen explained that on�
property not far from Mr. Nelson's was turned down, resulting iia a
lot of anger, but the ownex had subsequemtly met �vith the
neighbors �n.nd a11 had reached agreem�nt o� sometliing they ce�uld
live with; they reapplied and their variance was approv�d.
�oa�°°dm�inber Laa.�nanen cornna�nted that in other parts of town an
erosion h�d already begun and she had voted no in every instance,
and a11 of them had been alon� the edge of the property li�e, all in a
straight line, vvith r�o cixcumstances that changed frorn one pi�ce of
property to ano�h�r. Boardmembe�° Laanaanen cornm�nted tl�at the
fact that this applicant had alr�ady started building had no e�eet on
her and he should look to the people who h� contracted vvith to
lBoard of Adjus�inent 1Vleetin� Minutes
Fe�ruary 25, 2002
Page ia
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build, s�ce this was th�ir xesponsibility, Boardmember Laaman�n
commented the whole idea had been not to have walled carnps in
such a small town, and this was tlie th�°d on this �treet. Mr.ldIelson
commented he had ta,llked to the n�arby r�sidents which was
probably why no one came to object, cory�ment�d that he did not
�o�nsid�r this a vvall but more like an entrance b�cau�� it was only
30' lon� a,nd there were hedges and not fences. �hair Humpage
cornxnented it loc�ked more like an entryway, IVIY°s. Verhoe�en
comme�ted that a courtyard code had be�n found that allowed Mr.
(�ilbert's variance, It was clarified that th� low wall fell within 20'
but be�aus� �t was curv�d it vv�.s actu.a.11y 30' longo Mr. l�ewman
comrnented he saw this as an �ntry featiar°e since it was c�ver�d
o�ly approxi.matel� 1/3 of the property.
D. I�'incling of Fact ��sed Upon Competent Substanti�l E�dence
MC)�'IOliT:
�
Mr. loTewman inad� a ffiot�on to appa°ove the ap�licat�o� from
1V�r. and Mr�. Charles Nel�on on the basi� that it met tl�e
crite�a. Mr, Pullon seconded the motion, vvi�ich carried by 4-1
vote vvith Boardmeinber Laa��nen opposed.
4. An application fro� Philip Cary, owner of the propex�ty located at
129 Point Circl�, Lot 35.2, Tequesta Subdivision, requestiug a
variance to the terms of the Official Comprehensive Z�ning
Ordina�ce of the Villag� of Tequest�, Ordinance No. 355, as
amended, Section XVI, Uniform �Vaterway Control, Subsection (B),
I�ock �nd Pier Length, VVidth and Con�igurat�on, Para�raph (1) to
all�� th� construction of a 110-foot boat do�k with a 6' x 20' terminal
platform� in li�u of no dock �r pi�r being constru�ted wh�ch extenc�s
waterw�rd froan the mean high water� line in exc�ss of seventy-�ve
(75) feet, as requir�d by the Cod�.
Board of Adjusfinent Meeting 1Vlinu.tes
February 25, 2002
Page x2
____________________�.m_____��______
A, Swearing-I� of Witnes�es, if Requared
Clerk of the Board Je� Ielewell swore in all thos� intending to
speak.
B. Discl�sure of Ex-Part� Communicat�ons
A poll of the Boardanembers indicated that Cha�r Humpage, and
�oardmember Bri�nza ha.d visit�d the site and had spoken to no
one, Boardmember Pullon, Boardme�nber Laaln�.nen, and
Boar°dmegnber Ne�nan had had no exparte co�unicatian.
C. Tesfimony �f W�tn�esses a�d Crass Exa�ainat�on, if aa�y
Gene V�ehage, I?olphin Mar�e Construction, ea�pl�.ined th�.t
the �vater d�pth at 75' out was not sufficient for a boat mooring or
a boat li�t; tfliey were try�g to get 3' at the end of the dock but it
was a little less. Ch.air g--Iumpa�e commented he saw no probl�ms
vvith the ripa�an right� and had r�view�d the three app�°ovafls that
were granted. Chair Humpa�e reported that he had spoken to a
staff inember who had spoken with DEP and found that DEP's
gre�t�st con�ern was the seagrass and with the depth of water irfl
the area, Tequesta's ordirianc� vvas al�nost in cc�nflict with L�he
DEP, vvhich �vas sorr�ething for Tequesta to work out. Chair
Humpage �dicated he felt the criteria had been met and he had no
problem with the requ�st. Chair � added t1�at if a person
had a dock in the river �nd wished to put �n a new dock they cvuld
do it v�ith a r�p�.ir p�rrmit if it was the same footpr�t and I��P
�eeded �o address that because there could be a probl�n� with th�
2-1l2' low water level because of the way the riv�r was go�n�
dowr�. �o�°c�t�iember Laarrianen comment�d that since September
19�7 throu�h March 2000, 33 variances had been grant�d and
ask�d if that was b��ause the Vi11a�e ordin�nces were not si�x�ilar
to Federal regulations. �1erk of the ��ard New�11 responded that
Board of Adjustm�xit Meeting Minutes
Feb�ttary 2,�, 2002
Page ��
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t11e DEP and the Corps of En�eers had di�ferent crite�a than the
`7illage cade and when they did not ag� that was v�hen variances
w�re requested. Chair Humpage explaaned th�t when the
c�rdinance was pass�d the depth of th� river was considerably
deeper than it was now; tha.t DEP r�quires a certau� a�nount of
�vatex at low t�d� so a boat will not hurt the seagrass, and in order
to prese�°°ve the seabeds the Village had graalted variances,
Discussion ensued. Mr. Newell added that there v�ere three types
of criteria—regulatary, pr�prietary, and federal—all three inust be
anet, and if there was a conflict with Tequesta's ordinances that
vvas when � v�rianc� request was made, Mr. Newell �larified that
the width of the dock was proper �nd the only thing the Board was
to consider was the length.
MOT'ION
�oardmember laTewman ffiade a motion to approve the
app�icat�on from Philip Cary on the ba�is that the criteria had
been met. Boardmemb�r Laamanen s�conded the an�tion,
�vhi�h carried by unan�mous 5-0 vote.
VI. UNFINIS�IED BiT�II�TESS
There was no �finished busin�ss to com� before the Board
`'II. COIVIMUNICATIONS FI��10'I CI'TIZENS
W�d� Griest, 494 Dover ltoad, �xpr�ssed his opinion that the �oard should look
at tvvo thin�s very seriously when discussi.xig vvalls the height should be
desc�bed in the code as from the ground up, sinc� this �oard had apprc�ved a 6'
la�gh wa11 �hen a� applf cant request�d �' and th� applicant then piled 2 feet of
�oard of Adjustment 1Vleeting Mu�utes
Februaa�� �5, 2002
Pag�e a.4
----�__�m________�_�.___m--__--m----
dirt up �d put the 6' wall on top, so they had 8' . Another item was that p�ople
who object�d to applicatAOns shau.l.d be encoura�ed to come to the m�eti�g to
st�te why they object, which vv�uld help the Board decide and �et other views
011 � Sltll��1011.
VIII, A1�1Y OTI-�ER MA'TT'EItS
Chair Hurnpage requested inforrnation from the Village Attorney as to the
procedure to change the Village's oa°dinance regarding dock length. Village
Attoa�ney I2�ndolph advis�d that the �oard could m�ke a recommendatio� to the
Villag� C�uncil if they saw problems �rise as a result of tasks they under�ook.
Chaar Humpage �ade a recom�riendation that the V�llage Attorney look into this
matter a.�d also that the Village Cauncil take another Iook at the ordinance with
reference to walls �.nd make it bulletproof since it was now like a sponge. Chair
I�urnpage asked that t�e Vfllage Ccauncil look at these two items in whatever
fash�on was req�red and maybe make changes.
Chair Humpage requested 1!/Ir. Newell through darectian from thi� Village
Ccaun�il address the problern of the road e��vations being changed to make some
homes 2 g' - J " above the present elevations because of the se�v�ring, which
could create probl�ms for hom�ov�mers such as the application pres�nted tc�a�ght.
�3oardmember Brienza commented that the it�tent was not to cha,�ge th� road
elevation at �.111 when installin� sevvers, and if there vvas a change ther� could b�
an error in the survey. Boardmember Ne�vman commented regarding the length
of docks that it was very impoxtant to consider prop�rty lines as t��.ey �xtend out
into the water so fa�°; some property Iin�s were perpendicular to the cl�aniiel and
out 75 feet or mor� the pro�erty liries could e��nd over another person's view
of the water, and could impact hauses 2 or 3 c�ver. Boardmember N���
c�mmented this was a point often taken to court, and it was hard for the Bcaard
to d�terrnine that. Villa�e Attor�ey Ramdolph advised it would be a good �dea to
r�quire th� applic�t to provide a suavey b�caus� with longer docks �e B�a.�°d
rriigl�t be approving so�ething tha� va�uld infi�inge on sor�a.eone's ripa�an rights.
�oay°c�iember Newrn�n corrur�ented the ��ard should ha�e an ov�rlay of the
S�ard of Adjust�nent 1Vleeting Mixiutes
February 2,�, 2002
Page i�
--------�_----___�___---------�_�_
survey to show how �.dja��n� properties vvould be ��cted. B�a.rrdm�anber
Pu11on comm�nted an applicant had to be within �par�an rights before tl��y came
to tlus Board. Vill�.ge Attorney Randolph respor�ded that was not th� issue—
with�ut a sit� survey you could not s�e dvhere riparia� ri�lats of the n�i�ibors
were out into th� water 100 . It was nc�ted that in some cases riparia� ri�hts
ove�°la�aped since Tequesta used the properiy lin� to deternline riparian ri�hts arid
the State did not. Bc�ardmembex Newman advised that ma;ny times drawing�
provided to tlie Village were ax�big�ous as to th� angle and locati�n of the dock
because two or thre� permits were associa.ted and on the pictures th�y did not
pxo�ride ari angle associated with a knowri reference-- which was needed by th�
Board. Mr. Newm�n co�n.ent�d that he only consider�d 'Teque�ta's
requuernents when making a d�cision regarding riparian rights since that vvas th�
entitgr he was representing, wh�ch Villag� Attorn�y Randolph indic�.ted was
correct. Attomey IZandolph ad�ised riparian rights did not necessarily_stay
with tl�e setbacks the farther they extend�d a�.d if they were �.t an angle, sc� the
applicant �hoa�ld prov�de that inforrr�ati�n to the Vill�g�.
1VIC)TION
Bo�rdmember 1�1�wman made a mot�an that any future dock applications
provide �n overview to the �illage showir�g affe��ed propertres on each side
of the propertg� oa- any affected property because if it was pie�shaped �t
could affect �vvo prop�rtie�, �howing the survey of the proposed do�k
loc�t�on. Boardmember Pullon seconded the mation, which c�rx�ed by
unanimous �-0 vote.
Chair I-�umpage request�d tha.t soaneone look into th� issu� af �v�.l1s tllrough
wh�tever was th� proper pa°ocess.
Cha�r �-I�ar�page also requested th� d�ck is��e be looked at as to wheth�r th�
foota�� n�ed�d to be arraendede �oa�rdnien�ber I�Tewman �or�rr�.ented the Villag�
should be s�fe on the dock issue because State crite�a onl.y allovv�d docks �cs �o
out tc� a specific depth in a natt�°al river and you w�re not all�wed to build
through that depth. 1!�°. �Te�an indicated the �oard should have sorne
guid�line� for docks �vhere th�r�e w�re shallow water �onstraints that would
Boarcl vf Adjustment Meet�g M�utes
Feba°uary 25, 2002
Pa�e i6
��-=e--�_______________s_�_------��.
caus� damage to sea�r°as�. T'he Villag� .Attorn�y advised that could b� looked at
but sorne people just could not have th� s�ze boat th�y vvo�.ld like be�ause the
dep�th vvould not support a large siz�. Boardn,ember Newraia�r� inclicated that the
Stat� no�v required 3' depth and if the boat was too large for that it should be
k�pt in a n�arina. Villa�e Attomey R�ndolph requested 1VS�°. I�Tevvxnan provide
the Stat� regulati�n to Mr. Newell. Mr. N�wman explained that ther� was a lot
of special criteria becau�e of it being a natural river.
Attomey Randolph advised a inotion was nc�t necess�.ry to have these items
lor�ked at unless a m�mber of the Board object�da T'here were no objections,
therefore it was authorized to loc�k inta these items. Boardmemb�r Laama�.en
requ�st�d tlie itexn on walls be expeclited. Village 1-�ttorney Randolph �,dvised
these items would not be look�d at until af°ter it had gone befc�re t�i� Villa�e
Coua�cil, wha vvould direct the �-lttomey can these items.
I�. ADJOU121e1MElVT
�oardmember Laamanen moved that th� meeting be adjou�°nned.
Boa�°danember Pullon seconded the motion. The motion carried by
unanimous 5-0 vote ancl the uaeeting was therefore adjourn+ed at 9:30
p.m.
Respe�tfi��ly submi�ted,
Betty Laur
Recordixig Secr�tary
Reyuest for Variance
Noit Gedacht Subdivision
Lots 1,2&3
Justification of Variance
The applicant requests a variance under section R-lA Single-Family Dwelling
District subsection regarding "Walls and Fences". Specifically, applicant is seeking relief
from the requirement limiting the use of wa.11s or fences "forward of the building front"
and height limitation of 6'. Applicant plans include lOQ Feet af knee wall, lighted entry
columns and one electrically operated access gate.
1. Special circumstances and conditions do exist regarding the proposed request.
Due to the depth of the property, over 200 feet to the front door of the residence
from the street and the absence of any public street lighting, undetected access to
the property is available to any would be "Thief' or "Felon" from Dewitt Place
or Bayview road. During March of 2001 the subject residence was broken into
and robbed of a large amount of personal items during the nighttime, completely
unnoticed. Do to the length of the driveway and the lack of public street lighting;
the thief could have merely driven up the drive without any detection.
2. The special circumstances and conditions do not exist due to the actions of the
applacant. The applicant purchased the home many years after it's construction
and thus had no hand in its design relative to the frontage road. Additionally the
applicant had no hand in the lack of street li,ghting for the entire subdivision,
which creates the haxdship, and the continuous potential for undetected access.
3. Numerous similar variances have been granted by the town of Tequesta for
residences in the same zoning district. A sample of those include:
19179 Riverside Dr.
Tequesta (1998)
18882 Point Dr.
Tequesta (1998)
19207 Riverside Dr.
Tequesta (2000)
19649 Riverside Dr.
�I'equesta (2000)
4. The literal interpretation of the provisions of the ordinance have and will
continue to deprive the applicant of rights enjoyed by other properties in the
>
same zoning district. Other residents in the same zoning district enjoy the quiet
enjayment of their homes both literally and psychologically due to streetlights
that exist, for the most part, throughout the Town of Tequesta. The existence of
Street lighting has been proven to deter crime and provide the psychological
benefit of personal security. Additionally, the absence of a control gate at the
property's perimeter allows uncontrolled access to the applicant's residence.
The applicant proposes to minimize on such hardship by limiting the possibility
of unfettered and undetected vehicular access to their front door.
5. The requested variance is the minimum variance that will make for the
reasanable "secure" use of the property. Without gated access to the residence,
limiting vehicular traffic, the applicant will continue to be subject to the
undetected risk of robbery or property damage.
6. Since the applicant has lived at said residence, there have many instances of
trespassers on the property. There are many Mango and fnut trees on the
property and on many occasions, people have been seen climhing the trees. They
could possibly incur an injury on property that could result in a liability issue for
the owner. No trespassing signs are not respected. Photos have been taken af
adults, children and pets roaming freely way into the property of the applicant.
Persons have walked their dogs on the property and allowed them to relieve
themselves on the applicant's property. Applicant travels quite a bit and is
concerned that trespassing is occurring while they are away.
7. As designed, the proposed gate and fence structure will be in perfect harmony
with the community and the purpose of the ordinance, given the Towns' desire
to create a secure environment for it's residences. As the request represents relief
to a single family resident and it's application only affects the use of that single
property no detriment exists to the public welfare.
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