Explanation
Council Variance Application: CV17-077
APPLICANT: Columbia Gas of Ohio, Inc.; c/o Nickolas Hovis; 1600 Dublin Road; Columbus, OH 43215.
PROPOSED USE: Expand existing natural gas utility substation.
FAR SOUTH COLUMBUS AREA COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: Approval.
CITY DEPARTMENTS' RECOMMENDATION: Approval. The site consists of two parcels, one developed with an existing natural gas utility substation and the other with a single-unit dwelling. Both parcels are zoned in the R-2, Residential District. The proposal includes expanding the existing substation onto an adjacent lot developed with a single-unit dwelling. The requested Council variance will conform the existing substation and permit the expansion onto the adjacent lot. Variances to building setbacks, and maximum/minimum side yards are also included. This site is located within the Tri-South Neighborhood Plan (2003) which recommends “Single-Family Residential” uses for this location. Staff is supportive of the proposal as the expansion of an existing natural gas utility substation will not bring a new or incompatible use to the area. The existing natural gas utility substation has been in use since the 1950’s and the proposed expansion is onto an adjacent property. The existing substation has previously received Board of Zoning Adjustment special permit (13311-00157) and variance (13310-00606) approvals to reconfigure and expand nonconforming buildings with reduced building setbacks and minimum side yards for a fence. Population growth in the area has resulted in the need for an improved substation. The applicant is committing to enhanced screening that was requested by the community.
Title
To grant a Variance from the provisions of Sections 3332.033, R-2, residential district; 3332.21, Building lines; 3332.25(B), Maximum side yards required; and 3332.26(B), Minimum side yard permitted, for the property located at 3037 & 3047 FAIRWOOD AVENUE (43207), to permit the expansion of a natural...
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