In a pivotal meeting held at Franklin City Hall, the Board of Zoning Appeals addressed a variance request that could reshape a corner lot at 246 Miles Manor Court. The property, nestled within a historic preservation overlay, is seeking permission to encroach 10 feet into the mandated 25-foot front setback along Winslow Road, along with an additional 6-foot encroachment for a front porch.

The applicant, Andrew King of AK Designs, presented a compelling case, highlighting the challenges faced in designing a single-family home that adheres to both the zoning regulations and the aesthetic expectations of the historic neighborhood. The lot, measuring just 0.21 acres, is constrained by two front setbacks due to its corner location, limiting the buildable area to approximately 28 feet in width. This narrowness, coupled with the need for approval from the Historic Zoning Commission (HCC), has complicated the design process.

King explained that the setbacks requested align with those of neighboring properties, emphasizing that the original subdivision of the lot in the 1990s had not been properly platted, leading to the current complications. The design process has spanned over a year, with multiple submissions to the HCC, which ultimately denied previous requests due to concerns about architectural details and compatibility with the neighborhood.

Staff analysis presented during the meeting indicated that the variance request met all three criteria necessary for approval. The board found that the unique shape and historical context of the property justified the need for a variance, as strict adherence to the zoning ordinance would create undue hardship for the property owner. Furthermore, the proposed design aims to maintain the character of the historic neighborhood, aligning with the intent of the zoning regulations.

After a brief public comment period, which yielded no opposition, the board unanimously approved the variance request. This decision marks a significant step forward for the applicant, allowing for the construction of a home that respects both the historical context and the practical limitations of the lot. As the meeting concluded, the board's approval not only paves the way for new development but also reflects a commitment to balancing modern needs with the preservation of Franklin's rich architectural heritage.