ITEM06 C15-2024-0041 LATE BACKUP NOV14_SUPPORT — original pdf

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ITEM06/1-LATE BACKUPSteering Committee Members: Christopher Hurst AIA, Chair Paula Hern, Meghan Yancy, Claudette Kazzoun, Rob Kish, Steve Amos, Germaine Curry, Margaret Sullivan, William Osborn, David Schofman, Shawn Shillington, Erika Tatum November 13, 2024 RE: C15-2024-0041 – Thomas M. Schiefer and Meghann Elena Rosales – 1607 West 10th St.- Agenda Item 6 Dear Chair Cohen and BOA Members, I hope this letter finds you well. The Old West Austin Neighborhood Association supports the variance request to allow an increase in impervious coverage at 1607 W 10th Street. This property has been historically designated through the City as the Mary Baylor House and it reflects the dedication the owners have put into preserving its history. Thomas and Meghann, the owners, rebuilt this home with their own hands, along with the help of friends and the local community—no contractors, no professionals—just them, much like the original construction of the house itself. The goal with the proposed addition is simple and in line with the ongoing commitment to both the history of the home and the OWANA neighborhood. The intent is to build a small rectangular extension off the back of the house that mirrors the width and height of the original structure. This design will ensure that the addition does not take away from or overwhelm the original house, preserving the character and historical significance of the property. Importantly, none of the original house will be altered or demolished, except for a minor adjustment to the back eaves. The materials will be complementary to the original style, ensuring the extension blends seamlessly without replicating the original architecture. The requested variance is for an increase in impervious coverage, from the current 45% to 58%. This increase is necessary due to a few unique hardships tied to the history of the property and recent changes in zoning regulations: 1. Deed History: A portion of the property was dedicated to the City in the past to expand the road, which reduced our total allowable building area. 2. Neighbor Encroachment: Portions of the neighbor's property encroach onto the lot, effectively taking approximately 202 square feet from the total allowable building area, further restricting the space for the proposed extension. 3. Zoning Amendments: The Home 2 zoning amendments recently enacted removed the need for a variance in setbacks and building cover, but unfortunately, these amendments now limit the impervious cover to just 45%. OWANA’s neighborhood plan, which was in place prior to these amendments, allowed for up to 65% impervious coverage under the previously permitted small lot amnesty program. In light of these hardships, OWANA believes that granting the requested variance is both reasonable and necessary to allow the owners to continue living and raising their family in this beloved home, while also respecting and preserving the historical integrity of the property. Thomas and Meghann are deeply committed to the ongoing care of this house and to contributing positively to the OWANA community. ITEM06/2-LATE BACKUPOWANA agrees that this variance request has unique challenges and hardships that will not set a precedent for the neighborhood. Please grant the variance request that will allow Thomas and Meghann to continue building upon the legacy of this home, while being respectful stewards of its history. Sincerely, Christopher Hurst, AIA OWANA Chair ITEM06/3-LATE BACKUP