The Newport City Zoning Board of Review convened on January 1, 2025, to discuss several petitions, including a significant approval for a variance and a special use permit.

The meeting began with a motion from Mr. Riley regarding the petition from Lion Capital LLC and Aaron Hawk LLC. He proposed to adopt the board's findings and conclusions, stating that the petition met the necessary criteria under the Newport Zoning Ordinance for variances and modifications. The board unanimously approved the motion, with conditions that the project must be completed within 12 months and that all outstanding invoices related to public noticing be settled before the decision is recorded.

Following this, the board addressed a petition from Joyce and William Wood Bailey for a special use permit to construct a front third-story balcony at their property on Hammond Street. The applicants clarified that the permit was solely for the balcony and did not involve any setback or height variances. The board engaged with the applicants, who expressed their intent to make alterations to their home, emphasizing the need for the special use permit to proceed.

The meeting concluded with the board's approval of the first petition and ongoing discussions regarding the Bailey's request, highlighting the board's commitment to reviewing applications thoroughly while ensuring compliance with zoning regulations. The next steps for the Bailey's project will depend on the board's final decision regarding their special use permit.