Eastchester's Planning Board deferred final approval for an accessory structure at 5 Green Meadow Road, referring it to the Architectural Review Board to develop detailed landscaping plans that could soften its visual impact. This decision came after neighbors described the large, code-compliant structure as a "second house" and an "eyesore," prompting the board to acknowledge a potential flaw in the town's zoning code.

What Happened

  • A resident from 9 Green Meadow Road tearfully protested the structure's size, calling it a "monstrosity" and a "second house" that reduced her property value, despite the applicant's agreement to lower its height by 18 inches to 12 feet.
  • The board confirmed the structure technically complies with current zoning laws, including setbacks and height, but sympathized with neighbors' concerns about its mass and visual effect on adjacent, lower-grade properties.
  • The board sent the application to the Architectural Review Board (ARB) with a strong recommendation to devise comprehensive landscape screening for all sides of the structure, beyond what was already proposed, to mitigate the visual impact.
  • The Planning Board approved a special permit for Equinox at 750 White Plains Road, allowing extended operating hours of 5 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and 7 AM to 9 PM on weekends, aligning with a variance already granted by the Zoning Board.

Project Outcomes

  • 5 Green Meadow Road (accessory structure): Deferred final approval; referred to Architectural Review Board for detailed landscape screening plans, with the public hearing remaining open.
  • 750 White Plains Road (Equinox): Special permit for extended operating hours approved unanimously, following a Zoning Board variance.
  • 3 Rogliano Way (lot coverage amendment): Approved with conditions requiring the underlying subdivision plat for 34 Water Street to be filed before a permanent Certificate of Occupancy is issued.

What's Next

  • The applicant for 5 Green Meadow Road must develop and submit comprehensive landscape screening plans to the Architectural Review Board for review.
  • The developer for 3 Rogliano Way must ensure the new subdivision plat for 34 Water Street is officially filed with the Department of Health before receiving a permanent Certificate of Occupancy.
  • The Planning Board will likely review the proposed new single-family home at 201 Old Wilmot Road at a future meeting, which includes requests for several variances related to building coverage, height, and gross floor area.
  • The board will also consider the new business applications for 203 Park Avenue and 15 Tuckahoe Avenue at upcoming meetings.

Eastchester's Planning Board deferred final approval for an accessory structure at 5 Green Meadow Road, referring it to the Architectural Review Board to develop detailed landscaping plans that could soften its visual impact. This decision came after neighbors described the large, code-compliant structure as a "second house" and an "eyesore," prompting the board to acknowledge a potential flaw in the town's zoning code.