The Fairfield Zoning Board of Appeals on May 1 granted a variance allowing a reduction in the street-line setback on a corner lot at 645 Churchill Road so the homeowner can construct a raised two-car garage and address a chronic flooding problem.

Eric Picard (recorded in the transcript as the property owner) explained that a September 25, 2018 flash flood inundated roughly 70% of the lot and that the existing garage houses mechanicals and cannot accommodate vehicles. “When we contemplated adding a 2 car garage, it was suggested that we site it on the highest elevation of our property,” Picard told the board, explaining the plan to close and fill the existing garage area, regrade the site, and construct an elevated garage with a new, shorter driveway accessed from Churchill Road rather than Bond Street.

Picard told the board he had visited nine neighbors and that the petition showed support. Staff confirmed engineering had no conflict about the proposed driveway location relative to the corner. Board members described the proposal as creative and appropriate given the lot’s topography and history of flooding. The board voted unanimously to approve the variance; the applicant will need to follow engineering and permitting requirements and record any granted waivers with the zoning office.