HomeMy WebLinkAbout20200087 McAllister Subdivision Correspondance (3) August 6th,2020
City of Saratoga Springs Zoning Board of Appeals
474 Broadway
Saratoga Springs,NY 12866
Sent by email to Jennifer.merriman@saratoga-springs.org&USPS Mail
Re:Project#2020087
To the Members of the Board:
I am writing about the application by James P.McAllister to subdivide his property at 313 Jefferson St.
My property is across the street from his property,tax parcel#178.52-2-28.This is a follow up to my
comments made at the ZBA meeting held Monday August 3rd,at 6:30 PM via zoom.My concerns are:
(1) The individual who was presenting on behalf of Mr.McAllister stated in her opening that there
would be no changes to the character of the neighborhood.This is simply not true.The existing
structure is a transient rental,and has been for the last 13 years I have resided here.The proposed
subdivision if approved,would create the need for one of not two new driveways on Taylor St.One for
the existing structure,a second possibly for the new structure on the 2nd lot.The driveway cut in(s)
would require removal of several mature trees,and a portion of the large stone wall that currently
surrounds the property.Since the existing property is transient in nature this would also create
additional traffic in the neighborhood along with an obstructed view of a property that is already tired,
and does not fit in with the character of the existing neighborhood.
(2)Potential future construction:The proposal requests a rear yard setback variance for the existing
house because the side of Lot#1 becomes the back with the subdivision.Thus if granted,only an 8'
setback is required on the side.I have no issue with the current house in its current location(it was here
long before myself).However,if the property were to be sold,it is quite likely that the existing home
would be demolished and replaced with a larger structure.If the variance also applies to any new or
expanded structure,the new house could potentially be much closer to myself.For example,if a 60'tall
house was built 8 feet from setback,it would be a significant change in my view and potential sunlight.It
would also significantly change the existing neighborhood character as none of the other existing homes
have been granted such extreme setback variances in the development known as"Southside".
Therefore,I would request that if any variance is approved,that it be conditioned upon that it only apply
to the existing house with its current footprint for the purpose of maintenance and repair only,and that
any new construction(expansion or replacement)be subject to the current setback requirements.
Sincerely,
James R.Buydos
6 Taylor Street
Saratoga Springs NY 12866